Texas sues chain of tanning salons

HOUSTON, Nov. 11 (UPI) -- The Texas attorney general is suing the Houston-based Darque Tan salon chain for allegedly suggesting its tanning beds provide health benefits.

In its advertisements, Darque Tan falsely claims to reduce cancer risks by increasing amounts of vitamin D in the body, Attorney General Greg Abbott said.

Abbott's lawsuit alleges the advertisements violate the state's Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act and the Deceptive Trade Practices Act, the Houston Chronicle reported Tuesday.

"They are only approved as cosmetic tanning devices," said Tom Kelley, a spokesman for Abbott. "The company cannot claim health benefits beyond that."

Darque Tan has 87 locations in eight states, including 30 in the Houston area, the Chronicle reported, noting company owner, Robbie Segler, defended his ads as appropriate and legal in an interview with the Chronicle.