Tanning beds are cosmetic equipments that rely on ultraviolet radiation to produce tan. Typical tanning beds include a varying number of phosphor lamps that generate ultraviolets; depending on the size of the device, the number of lamps could be larger or smaller. Very specialized tanning beds use quartz lamps instead of phosphor lamps, but they also need a combination of filters and reflecting devices for proper functioning. As the name suggests it, tanning beds allow the individual to lie down, at the opposite of tanning booths where one has to stand. One other major difference between tanning beds and booths is the higher power output specific to the latter.

Tanning beds are considered very controversial at present, as the World Health Organization advises against the use of such devices for cosmetic purposes. To give just an example of the damage tanning beds can inflict it suffices to say that one cannot use the device without goggles. Negligence to respect this safety procedure could trigger very serious health problems. Statistics indicate that tanning beds are used differently in various parts of the globe, and the gap does exist even in the technical specificity of the devices. Americans seem to favor indoor tanning more than Europeans, and the tanning beds they rely on usually emit more UVB light than those used in Europe.

Tanning beds should not be used in combination with open sun exposure given the high risk of getting severe burn. The risk results from the fact that tanning beds do not produce a deep base tan, and once you get on the beach, the profound skin layers would be exposed to the aggressive action of the sun rays. Outdoor and indoor tanning could be alternated but with some time lapse in between. Moreover, the use of protective lotions and sunscreens remains a must; the element that could vary under the circumstances is the ultraviolet protection factor.

According to US national regulation the maximum exposure time in tanning beds is twenty minutes, with variations possible depending on the tanning beds models. Mention must be made that people going to a salon for the first time will have much shorter sessions and gradually increase the exposure time over about four weeks. In case lamps need replacement, tanning beds owners have the legal duty to purchase and install exactly the same model. Only certified equivalents could also work as they correspond to the specification of the law.