Young people who like to tan in sunbeds and use sunlamps could be putting themselves at risk for skin cancer, the World Health Organization warned Thursday.

The UN agency said governments should pass laws on responsible use of artificial tanning machines, such as banning their use for those under 18.

Sun lamps are becoming more popular, but the wider use is fuelling an increase in incidence of skin cancer, especially among young women in developed countries.

WHO officials suggest people enjoy the sun safely. (CP file photo)

"Exposure to sun lamps is a known cancer-causing agent to humans," said Mike Repacholi, a radiation expert at WHO. "We feel it's best not to use sun beds."

Repacholi stressed the need for people to enjoy the sun safely. Sunburns can predispose the young to skin cancer later in life, raising health care costs.

People who choose to use sunbeds should be supervised and wear protective goggles, he said.

One in three cancers worldwide is skin-related, mostly due to overexposure to radiation from the sun, according to the WHO.

The use of sunbeds is already regulated in France and Sweden.