Quick answer
With a lay-down sunbed you lie on an acrylic surface with lamps above and below you; with a stand-up sunbed (sometimes called a booth) you stand surrounded by lamps. Stand-ups avoid the pale pressure-point patches you can get from lying down, and their sessions are often shorter. Neither type is safer: both give out UV, so follow the salon's time for the specific bed.
Lay-down sunbeds
- You lie on a clear acrylic surface with lamps above and below.
- Many people find them more relaxing.
- Areas pressing on the acrylic, such as your shoulder blades and bottom, can tan less, leaving pale patches. See why is my sunbed tan patchy?
Stand-up sunbeds
- You stand upright, surrounded by lamps, usually holding grips above your head.
- No pressure points, so colour can be more even.
- Sessions are often shorter because the lamps are closer and many stand-ups are high output.
- Less contact with surfaces, which some people prefer.
Is one type safer?
No. The UK Health Security Agency says there's no evidence that any type of sunbed is less harmful than natural sun. What matters is the UV dose: how strong the bed is and how long you're on it. Follow the salon's recommended time for that particular bed: see sunbed minutes and lamp strength explained.
Switching between types
Don't assume your usual time on a lay-down works on a stand-up, or the other way round. Ask the salon for the right time each time you change bed. See how to avoid burning on a sunbed.
