There are basically two types of bulbs used in tanning beds; high pressure tanning bulbs and conventional low pressure lamps.  Some beds may use both type in unison with possibly different combinations of intensity.  They can come in a variety of sizes, watts, and other smaller variations from model to model.

High Pressure Bulbs

These bulbs use quartz glass and pressurized argon gas.  Because the quartz does not filter out the UVC rays, which are the more harmful UV rays we try to avoid, dichroic filter glass is used with these bulbs and will usually give them a purple hue.  This type of bulb is for tanning from above only, so in a lay down tanning bed they would be found on the hood, or perhaps used only as face tanners.  These bulbs are more intense and efficient and would be changed after 300-1000 hours of use.

Low Pressure Bulbs

Low pressure lamps are quite similar to the common fluorescent tube lights you see everywhere.  The difference between the tubes used for tanning and the ones used for common lighting is the phosphor used in them.  The low pressure lamps would be used for tanning from above and below in a tanning bed.  They last longer than the high pressure bulbs and would need to be replaced after 300-1600 hours of use.

There are other differences in tanning bulbs than just the pressure type of course.  Some bulbs, such as the type often found in stand up beds, would have reflective surfaces created inside to maximize the range of the UV light being emitted.  Different wattage levels are also commonly found in different bulbs and may be used for a variety of purposes such as the location of the bulb in the bed or what type of bed it’s being used in.

While tanning bulbs are a fairly low maintenance, the do require occasional cleaning to prevent dust or oils from accumulating on them.  Oils from your hands while handling the bulbs can decrease their expected lifespan, while dust on the bulbs can get in the way of the UV rays while you’re tanning.

The bulbs do also need to be changed every so often, but if you’re changing your own bulbs in a home tanning bed, they should last you quite some time depending on your usage.  These bulbs are fragile and contain mercury, so if you’re changing your own bulbs handle them with care.

If you’ve ever gone to a tanning salon, you’ll have been given the option of a lay down bed or a stand up tanning booth.  While it’s all a matter of personal preference, there are some differences between the two types of equipment.

In a booth you’ll be able to move around more easily.  This can allow you to raise or lower your arms, stand a certain way, or even stretch out if the booth is feeling cramped.  Lying in a bed restricts your movements somewhat and spots can be missed from having to stay in more or less one position.

The lamps in the stand up booths are often made with special reflectors inside.  These reflectors help to spread the light around the tanning chamber and ensure you’re getting tanned from all sides.  This gives you an excellent even tan with no missed areas.

When lying on the glass of a lay down bed, pressure points can be formed between the glass and certain parts of your body.  Because of the compacted tissue, the UV rays aren’t able to properly soak into your skin and you may have lighter areas in some places.  This can be avoided in lay down beds by simply adjusting your position every so often, but it’s a problem that is completely eliminated in a stand up booth.

Stand up booths tend to have stronger bulbs providing you with a quicker tan.  In a salon, the stand up beds usually have a lower maximum time limit because their bulbs are more intense.  If spending too much time in a bed is an issue for you, the more efficient booths may solve that problem.

Standing up in a booth is not for everyone though.  Even if you’re only in there for a few minutes, it can get boring or become tiresome.  Lying in a bed is often more relaxing and some tanners even find it quite enjoyable and therapeutic.  Lying down also allows you to use the separated goggles that don’t require the nose piece in the middle or the elastic to keep them on your head.  While the thin tan lines they create can be fixed by adjusting your goggles, it can give you one less thing to think about.

UV light kills most bacteria and tanning beds are cleaned by the salon staff after every use, but hygiene may still be a concern for you.  Since you don’t touch the sides of a stand up bed, the cause for worry regarding germs is removed completely.

Choosing the type of bed to use comes down mostly to comfort, efficiency, and best results.  Try both at your salon and see which style you prefer.  Some people even choose to alternate between lay down and stand up to maximize tanning coverage and keep their experience a little more interesting.

When deciding where to start working on your indoor tan, there may be certain factors you’ll want to consider before buying any kind of package or membership. Shopping around before committing to anything could save you a lot of money and regret. A lot of places have trial plans or one-time fees to see how you like their beds so if it isn’t costing you much or anything at all, take advantage of any trial offers you can to make the most informed choice possible.

Price

Usually a main deciding factor for most people paying for an indoor tan is the price. Finding a salon that offers the best deals can be tricky. Different salons can offer varying pricing methods so it isn’t always easy to compare price points versus sessions provided. Asking for a detailed breakdown of every package they offer, or perhaps even a printout, can help you when determining which salon will be more affordable for you.

Convenience

Driving or walking to your tanning salon can become a chore if it’s too far away to access easily. Finding a salon close to your home or work, or perhaps even in your gym, could save you a lot of traveling time. Some gyms offer tanning packages at excellent prices with a membership, so this may be a great option for you if you’re a member of a gym with tanning beds.

Knowing how busy a certain salon can get is also a very important factor when choosing the right place. Certain seasons or different times of day can get exceptionally busy, so being aware that you might have to wait for a bed or make appointments in advance is something you should know before making that salon your place to tan.

Quality

The quality of the bed and bulbs can differ widely from salon to salon. Some beds have weaker bulbs, which may be perfect for you if you have fair skin that’s prone to burning, but usually you’ll want high efficiency bulbs that are replaced in a decent amount of time. Ask questions about equipment when you’re scoping out your new tanning spot and determine how well maintained their beds are.

Sanitation

The cleanliness of your salon is something you should keep in mind. If the inside of the salon itself looks dirty, that right there may be something to think about. By law, the beds should be cleaned after every use, so even though UV rays kill most bacteria, ensuring the beds are properly disinfected will keep you safe and worry-free while tanning.

Knowledgeable Staff

The fees you’re paying to tan in a salon or spa are also going towards paying for the level of service you’re receiving from the staff. Not only should they be friendly and approachable, they should be able to address all the tanning questions and concerns you have. When starting at a new salon the staff should be asking for your appropriate history such as susceptibility to burns and possible medication that can be affected by UV exposure. They should also be providing proper equipment and lotion information if needed and be able to provide advice on time exposure and tanning frequency.

Getting the best tan is highly dependent on where you choose to do it. Finding a salon that has the right price, location, equipment, and staff will have a huge effect on your overall tanning experience. Don’t be afraid to shop around before deciding that any one salon is right for you.

Indoor tanning in beds and booths has become a popular way to get a great tan during every season regardless of how busy your schedule is. Some potential tanners may question the safety of these beds and the damage they will have on their skin, but just like tanning in the sun, there are safer ways to get that healthy glow while minimizing the damage.

Understand Your Skin Type

The natural pigmentation in your skin is going to be a major factor in customizing your tanning experience. For fairer skin than is more prone to burning, a very limited exposure should be given to avoid burning. Even once a base tan is established it may be a good idea to continuously limit exposure on much lighter skin as it can be more prone to damage than darker skin. Most salons will have knowledgeable, well trained staff than can help you determine your ideal tanning regimen.

Be Patient with Your Skin

Get your base on before you attempt for a dark bronze. The worst damage you can get from UV exposure is from burning, so get a little bit of colour at first and work up from there. Tanning slowly helps your body produce more melanin which darkens your skin and protects you from burning. Once you’ve got some tan, you can start stepping up your sessions and adding more glow to your skin while avoiding painful, damage-causing sunburns.

Prepare Your Tanning Canvas

A common tip you’ll get from any salon technician is that “moist skin tans better”. They aren’t just trying to sell you on all those fancy lotions behind the counter, moisturize properly and you’ll get a deeper, safer, and longer lasting tan. Keeping your skin moisturized before, during, and after your tanning session will slow your skins exfoliation and you’ll hold your tan better. Apply your lotion liberally on clean skin before you tan and you’ll see a more even bronzing on healthier looking skin.

The Importance of Dependable Equipment

Not all beds are made equally. The lamps on some beds may be more intense than others or some beds may use infrared in addition to the UV lights. While more intense may be what you prefer to get a darker tan, or you want that extra infrared for the anti-wrinkling effect it has on your skin, understanding the equipment your salon uses will allow you to get the tan that’s right for you.

Be sure the equipment you’re using is safe and properly maintained. Fresh bulbs and new machines will ensure you’re getting the highest quality tan at the safest levels. Protective eyewear is a must. Sunglasses, even with UV protection, won’t do in a tanning bed. Wearing proper tanning goggles is the only way to safely protect your eyes.

Tanning and exposure to UVA and UVB ultraviolet rays can be done safely as long as you’re careful, patient, and have done your research. When done right, it can actually be beneficial in helping your body produce vitamin D and securing a base tan that will prevent potential burns from the sun. You’re getting the same rays from natural sunlight, so when using a tanning bed, it’s only a matter of knowing your tanning limits. And as with most things you enjoy, tanning is best done in moderation.

The quest to get that perfect bronze hue can be harder and harder these days with peoples busy schedules and cautions about tanning in the sun. Sometimes you have no time in your day to get outside during the peak tanning hours, or you live in a climate that doesn’t always allow for outdoor tanning. Well there are options out there now that completely remove the need for sun and with a little bit of information you’ll be able to choose the method that suits your needs best.

Bronzers

One of the simplest and least expensive ways to give yourself some glow comes in the form of bronzing powder and moisturizer cosmetics. While it will last only as long as your makeup is on, this is a great way to either enhance your current tan or add a bit of extra colour for a short time. This option is most effective for use on just your face and neck.

Wet Tanning Products

Tanning lotions, creams, mousses, or gels can be a great way to get an easy sunless tan, but choosing the right brand that works best with your skin type is important. The price range with this product can be very low in the form of a generic drugstore brand or can sky rocket up to a designer product that comes in a tiny bottle. You can usually find a good mid-range product that won’t give you a cheap looking artificial tan for a decent price with a little bit of shopping around.

Tanning Pills

A tanning option that can get a little pricier than some of the tanning creams and lotions out there comes in the form of tanning pills. These pills contain caretenoid pigments that affect the layers of fat below your skin by giving them a darker tint. Large amounts of this pigment can turn your skin an orange shade so be careful to work up to your desired shade slowly by determining how much is the right amount for your body. Consistent use of this option is easily the most convenient way to get a lasting tan and there’s no need to apply any lotions or sit through any extended tanning procedures.

Spray Tanning

Getting your tan sprayed on from a booth or an airbrush technician will last for only about a week before it needs to be re-applied, but you can get a beautiful and even tan in a matter of minutes with virtually no mess. Unlike the wet tanning products, there is no staining of your clothes because this method dries much more quickly and doesn’t use dyes.

Tanning Beds or Booths

Closest to the tan you would get from the sun, tanning beds or stand-up booths use bulbs which emit UV radiation. Because this method affects your deepest layer of skin, you’ll get the longest lasting effect from a tanning bed and you have the best chance at an even tan with no streaking or blotching. It can be more expensive to maintain this tan as you have to either buy your own equipment or go to a salon to use theirs, but this will give you a glow that lasts for weeks even once you stop tanning.

Regardless of the method you choose to get your tan, exfoliating before any process and making sure you have clean skin will give you the best results. A good moisturizing regime can extend the life of your tan and will keep your skin looking young and healthy. Whether you want to avoid UV rays or get a quick spray tan that will last long enough for a special occasion or event, there is a tanning method out there that’s sure to suit anyone’s schedule and budget.