Sunbed Tanning

Understanding Tanning Beds

Tanning beds (also called sunbeds, tanning booths or solariums) are indoor tanning equipment that help you have a sun-kissed tan year-round. Tanning units use specialized UV lamps that emit both UVA rays and UVB rays—the same wavelengths you get from sun tanning outside, but in a controlled indoor environment.

How Tanning Beds Work

When you lie in a tanning bed, the UV lamps stimulate cells in the skin that produce melanin. This creates that bronzed appearance you’re looking for. A tan is cumulative, so color usually builds over multiple sessions. Each tanning session typically lasts 5-20 minutes.

Types of Tanning Equipment

Tanning salons offer different tanning beds: horizontal beds where you lie down, stand-up tanning booths and hybrid systems that offer both UV light and red light therapy. Commercial tanning beds at professional facilities are more powerful than home tanning beds and come with safety features and warranty coverage. Modern tanning equipment also includes acrylic shields and timer controls, and beds can vary in intensity and session length.

Understanding Red Light Therapy Beds

Red light therapy beds use completely different technology than tanning equipment. They emit red and near-infrared light, which is UV free. The goal isn’t bronzing, it’s wellness and skin care.

How Red Light Therapy Works

Red light therapy penetrates the skin to energize cells at the mitochondrial level. Some research suggests it may stimulate natural healing processes, boost collagen production, improve circulation and reduce inflammation. Red light supports cellular function without any tanning effect.

The Main Differences Between Tanning Beds and Red Light Therapy Beds

Purpose and Results

Tanning beds create a tan by stimulating melanin production through UV rays. Most people see visible bronzing within hours. Red light therapy beds can provide therapeutic benefits—improved skin texture, pain relief, anti-aging effects—without the skin changing color. The results are wellness focused, not cosmetic tanning.

Light Type and Technology

Tanning equipment uses UV lamps (both UVA and UVB). Red light therapy uses LED panels that emit specific non-UV wavelengths (red light and near-infrared). The light sources, technology and biological effects are completely different.

Safety Considerations

UV exposure from tanning beds carries some risks, premature aging and sunburn if sessions are too long or frequent. Red light therapy has no UV light and is generally well tolerated by most individuals, but side effects can still vary based on skin sensitivity.

Session Length and Frequency

A tanning session is usually 5-20 minutes, depending on the tanning lamp intensity and your skin’s tolerance. Red light therapy sessions normally last 10-20 minutes. Both require consistency for best results, though the frequency recommendations differ based on your goals.

Which One Is Right for You?

Choose Tanning Beds If:

• You want a bronzed, sun-kissed appearance
• You’re preparing for a vacation, event or want year-round color
• You prefer the look of tanned skin and want to avoid outdoor tanning
• You understand UV safety and want to tan responsibly with quality tanning equipment

Choose Red Light Therapy If:

• You’re focused on anti-aging, skin care or pain relief
• You want therapeutic benefits without UV exposure
• You’re interested in wellness treatments that support natural healing
• You prefer noninvasive light therapy for overall health

Why Not Both?

Many of our clients enjoy both services. Use tanning beds for that beautiful bronzed tan and red light therapy for skin health and wellness. They complement each other perfectly. One gives you the aesthetic you want, the other supports your body’s natural healing and rejuvenation. Our wellness memberships include access to both.

Other Options To Consider

If you want the bronzed look without UV exposure, consider sunless tanning alternatives:

• Spray tan services for professional, even color without UV
• Self-tanning products for at-home bronzing
• Moisturizing bronzing lotions for a gradual, buildable tan

These give you gorgeous color with no UV exposure. Perfect for first-time tanners or anyone that wants a smooth, even sun-kissed look. Remember to use sunscreen for outdoor activities regardless of which indoor services you choose.

Experience Both at Palm Beach Tan

Whether you’re interested in traditional tanning beds, red light therapy or exploring both, Palm Beach Tan has state-of-the-art equipment and knowledgeable staff to guide you. Our commercial tanning beds are maintained to the highest standards with full warranty coverage. Our red light therapy beds deliver a full body, professional-grade experience.

Visit your nearest Palm Beach Tan location to learn more about our tanning equipment, red light therapy options and membership packages with all our wellness services.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you use a tanning bed and red light therapy bed on the same day?

Yes! They are completely different technologies with different purposes. Many clients use both during the same visit—tanning for aesthetic results and red light therapy for wellness benefits. Just schedule them separately with a few minutes between sessions.

Does red light therapy give you a tan?

No. Red light therapy beds are UV free, so they won’t create a tan or change your skin color. They work at the cellular level for potential therapeutic benefits like improved skin texture and pain relief, but won’t give you that bronzed appearance you get from UV tanning lamps.

Are tanning beds safe if I use tanning lotion and follow time limits?

Following proper guidelines can significantly reduce risks. Use high-quality tanning lotion specifically for use with indoor tanning beds, start with shorter sessions appropriate for your skin type, and never exceed recommended exposure times. Regular skin checks and avoiding sunburn are essential. Consult with our tanning experts about safe practices for your first time or any concerns.