The tanning bed is a device that uses ultraviolet radiation to produce a cosmetic tan that contains several fluorescent lamps with phosphor mixtures specially designed to emit ultraviolet rays that are somewhat similar to the sun. There are home tanning beds that typically use lower watt lamps (12 to 28,100 watts), while larger ones in salons can run 24 to 60 lamps that will draw 100 to 200 watts.

There are tanning beds that are much more expensive as they contain a higher pressure that generates mainly UVA with some UVB using quartz lamps, reflectors and specialized filters. While the tanning bed allows you to lie down, there is also a tanning booth that requires you to stand while tanning and the power output of the booth is higher.

The bad news is that due to the large amount of UV radiation exposure, there are human health effects such as skin cancer, suppression of the immune system, and premature skin aging. The WHO does not recommend the use of UV tanning devices but there are experts who suggest that tanning in bed is much safer than the sun. So if you really want to give it a try, there are several steps you need to take to make sure your skin is protected.

Suntan lotion is a must to apply all over your body before you jump into the tanning bed. This will help block excess UV rays from burning your skin. Never overdo your sessions in terms of time, as UV rays can be quite damaging. If you have extremely light and fair skin, start with just 5 minutes and if you have darker skin, 7 minutes will be fine. If it hurts when you get up, then you’ve gone too far. US law says you can only climb for a maximum of 20 minutes under UV rays and more than you need is enough.

Never have the idea that you will tan faster by lying in bed longer. It will not work. Make sure to schedule your sessions at regular intervals. Never compare with others as some people tan faster depending on skin type. Try to schedule it three times a week, for 24 hours, because if you don’t, you’ll get serious burns. The 24-hour rest allows your skin to jump to a new level.

Tips on safe tanning may not always work, especially if you’re a beginner, so always listen to your body. When you start to feel pain or ache, get out of bed. If you are the salon, please tell your assistant that this is your first time as they will take special care of you. The tanning bed is a good way to control the UV rays that hit your skin, so make sure you do it right.

Good luck!