A survey of 4,000 people across the UK, commissioned by the charity, has found that the vast majority of sunbed users (82 per cent) first soaked up artificial tan enhancing rays before they were 35.

This is particularly dangerous, according to a report published by the International Agency for Research into Cancer. It found that people who start using sunbeds under the age of 35 increase by 75 per cent their risk of malignant melanoma - a disease that affects around 250 people in Northern Ireland alone every year.

The survey also found that as many as one in three women questioned had used a sunbed. Overall, for men and women, the figure was one in four.

As a result of the survey, Cancer Research UK has launched a SunSmart campaign with a stark warning to sunbed users across Northern Ireland that over exposure to UV rays in the tanning salon can prove as dangerous as getting burnt on the beach.

Over-exposure to artificial UV in sunbeds is just as dangerous as staying out too long in sun. It is a common misconception that sunbeds have had “harmful rays removed” or that sunbeds are “a safe way to tan”. The intensity of some UV rays from sunbeds can be 10-15 times higher than that of the midday sun.

Said Jean Walsh, Cancer Research UK spokesperson for Northern Ireland: “The results of our survey make for a stark warning to young people across the province about the dangers of indoor tanning. You can’t always see the damage that UV does straight away. It builds up over time. But every time you use a sunbed you are harming your skin and increasing your risk of skin cancer.

“Our SunSmart campaign has previously focused on the dangers of sunburn which increases your risk of skin cancer. This year our key message is to alert young people about the damage sunbeds can do to their skin, especially if they have fair skin that doesn’t tan easily.

“Cancer Research UK is particularly concerned about young teenagers using sunbeds and is working with the government to review options for possible regulation of the industry.”