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Tanning beds, also known as sun beds, emit
ultraviolet radiation for cosmetic purposes to provide artificial or
sunless tanning. Tanning beds come in two main styles, horizontal and
vertical.
Horizontal tanning beds are used in both residential and
commercial settings. The lid is lined with tubular ultraviolet lamps and
the bed or bench, made of plastic or glass, is contoured for optimal
relaxation. You just lie down, close the lid, and let the ultraviolet
light penetrate your skin. For an even tan, all you need to do is turn
over one time about halfway through the session.
Vertical tanning beds, also called stand-ups or tanning booths, are also
popular. They’re easy to use and very efficient. The interior is lined
with ultraviolet light bulbs in a 360-degree pattern. All you have to do
is step inside and close the door. Since your body is exposed to
ultraviolet light from all sides simultaneously, you don’t have to
reposition your body for an even tan.
High-pressure tanning beds emit more tanning rays (UVA) and fewer
burning rays (UVB). They use quartz lamps to make the internal air
pressure of the bulbs higher than atmospheric pressure, unlike
conventional ultraviolet lamps. High-pressure tanning beds are useful
for producing intermediate and dark skin tones.
Ultraviolet lamps are marked with a UVB percentage. For example, if a UV
lamp is marked 6 percent UVB, it means that the lamp emits 6 percent UVB
rays and 94 percent UVA rays. This is a relatively low UVB percentage
and will produce a brown tan without burning. The latest models of
tanning beds available on the market come with a cooling system, which
provides more comfort during tanning.
Before purchasing any tanning bed, you should compare the advantages and
disadvantages of each model. This will help you purchase the tanning bed
that is perfect for you and gives you the results you want without
risking damage to your skin and health.
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