Teenagers could be banned from using sunbeds under proposals unveiled by Health Minister Michael McGimpsey.

The minister announced a public consultation on plans to regulate the industry in a response to fears over links to skin cancer.

The blueprint includes a ban on under-18s using sunbeds in commercial premises, or hiring them for use at home.

The plans would provide the first official regulation of tanning salons and could limit the number of sunbed sessions individuals can take, while also forcing operators to inform clients of the possible health risks.

The minister said: "I am considering a range of possible measures for regulating the sunbed industry in Northern Ireland, with particular regard to the need to protect the health of children and young people. I am now inviting views on the options for regulation of the sunbed industry in Northern Ireland and on what scope such regulation should have."

The indoor tanning industry is not subject to any form of direct statutory regulation and there are no statutory age restrictions to protect children and young people.

The Department of Health said there is growing evidence linking sunbed use with the development of all skin cancers.

The contribution of sunbeds to malignant melanoma has been estimated at 100 deaths per year in the UK. In Northern Ireland, the incidence of malignant melanoma skin cancer cases has been increasing over the past 25 years, from around 80 recorded cases in 1984, to 233 in 2007. In addition, there were nearly 2,800 non-melanoma skin cancers diagnosed in 2007, making it the most common type of cancer diagnosed in Northern Ireland.

The use of sunbeds has increased significantly in recent years. Statistics showed that prior to 1980 using a sunbed was unusual, but by the end of the 1990s more than 60% of women and 50% of men aged 18-50 years had reported using a sunbed.

The consultation will close on February 19, 2010.