Quick answer
A collagen sunbed, also called a red light bed, uses red light rather than UV. It won't give you a tan on its own. These beds are marketed for skin appearance, but the evidence for those effects is still limited. Some salons offer combined beds that mix red light with UV tanning lamps, and those carry the same UV risks as any sunbed.
Red light, not UV
Collagen or red light beds use lamps that give out visible red light instead of the UV used for tanning. On their own they won't tan your skin.
What are they used for?
They're marketed for skin appearance, with claims about collagen and smoother-looking skin. Research into red light for skin is ongoing, but the evidence for cosmetic benefits is still limited, so treat strong claims with caution.
Combined beds
Some salons offer beds that combine red light with UV tanning lamps. These still give out UV, so all the usual advice applies: follow the salon's time for that bed, wear goggles, and see are sunbeds safe?
Collagen lotions
Separately, some sunbed lotions contain collagen as a moisturising ingredient. That's different from a collagen bed. See do sunbed lotions really work? or browse our collagen lotions.
Before you try one
Bright light can still be uncomfortable for your eyes, so ask the salon about eye protection. If you have a medical condition, take medication that makes you sensitive to light, or have concerns about your skin, ask your GP first.
