Tanning guide

Sunbed types explained

Not all sunbeds are the same. The type of bed, its lamps and how old they are all change how much UV a session gives you. This guide explains the differences so you know what to ask the salon.

Questions in this guide

What is a collagen sunbed?A collagen sunbed, also called a red light bed, uses red light rather than UV. It won't give you a tan on...
Sunbed minutes and lamp strength explainedMinutes only mean something for a specific sunbed. The amount of UV you get depends on the type, number, age and distance...
Lay-down vs stand-up sunbeds: what's the difference?With a lay-down sunbed you lie on an acrylic surface with lamps above and below you; with a stand-up sunbed (sometimes called...

Lay-down or stand-up?

Lay-down beds can leave pale pressure-point patches; stand-ups avoid them and often have shorter sessions. Neither is safer. Compare them in lay-down vs stand-up sunbeds.

Why minutes aren't comparable

Ten minutes on one bed can be much stronger than ten on another, because lamp type, number, age and distance all differ. New lamps can be noticeably stronger. Read sunbed minutes and lamp strength explained, and always ask for the recommended time on each bed.

Collagen and red light beds

These use red light rather than UV and won't tan you on their own. Combined beds that add UV carry the same risks as any sunbed. See what is a collagen sunbed?