Tanning beds and stand up tanning devices are both popular options for obtaining a sun-kissed glow. But in the tanning bed vs stand up tanning debate, which is better?
From cost to convenience, safety to results – read on to learn more about each type of tanning and decide which one is right for you…
What Is A Lay-Down Tanning Bed?
A lay-down tanning bed is a popular tanning bed option that allows you to lie down while tanning, rather than a spray tan.
These beds are designed for comfort and relaxation, providing the perfect environment to rest and relax during your tanning session.
Lay-down beds are equipped with UV lamps that emit ultraviolet light, which helps you achieve a long-lasting tan, and get a more even tan.
As you lie down on the laydown bed, your body is evenly exposed to the UV light, ensuring a uniform tan all over your body.
The comfortable and spacious design of these beds enables you to fully stretch out and enjoy the tanning process, rather than outdoor tanning.
Lay-down tanning beds are also convenient since they require no specific posture or balance, making them an approachable choice for individuals new to indoor tanning.
Another benefit of lay down beds is the built-in ventilation systems, which help keep you cool during your tanning session.
This creates a relaxing atmosphere and allows you to enjoy your time in the bed as much as possible, to achieve a natural-looking tan.
While using a lay-down tanning bed, it is essential to follow the recommended exposure times and guidelines to ensure safe tanning while achieving the best results.
To maintain your tan, it is advised to try a steady tanning routine with regular sessions at your preferred frequency.
This will help you achieve and maintain the desired tan level while also minimizing the risk of overexposure to UV light.
What Is A Stand-Up Tanning Bed?
A stand up tanning bed, also known as a vertical tanning bed or stand-up booth, is a type of indoor tanning equipment that allows you to tan while standing in place.
This stand up bed setup provides an alternative to traditional lay-down tanning beds, offering some unique advantages and benefits.
One key benefit of using a stand-up tanning bed is that it can provide you with a more even tan compared to a lay-down tanning bed.
With a vertical tanning booth, your entire body is exposed to the UV rays, which helps to minimize the risk of uneven tanning due to pressure points created when lying down.
Another advantage of stand-up tanning beds is that they are generally more hygienic.
When using a vertical tanning booth, your body has minimal contact with the surface of the tanning equipment, which can reduce the risk of bacteria buildup and transmission compared to lay-down beds.
Ensure to follow proper hygiene practices, such as wearing protective eyewear and wiping down the equipment after use, to maintain a clean tanning environment.
Stand-up tanning beds also typically have shorter session times than lay-down beds due to their increased intensity.
This allows you to complete your tanning session more quickly, which can be a significant benefit if you have a busy schedule.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a UV Sunbed
When deciding between a stand-up tanning bed and a lay-down tanning bed, it is essential to consider several factors.
When taking into account your personal preferences, comfort level, and indoor tanning equipment, you can make an informed decision as to which option is best for you.
UV Rays: Both stand-up and lay-down tanning beds emit ultraviolet (UV) rays, which can help you achieve a desired tan.
Be aware of the intensity of UV rays in the specific tanning bed model you plan to use, as this can impact the amount of time needed to achieve your desired results and potentially affect your skin.
Personal Preference: Some people prefer a stand-up tanning bed due to the increased circulation, while others feel more comfortable and relaxed in a lay-down bed.
As you weigh these preferences, consider which environment aligns better with your needs and personal comfort level.
Comfort Level: Stand-up tanning beds typically require less time than lay-down beds, but some people may find the experience less comfortable.
In a lay-down bed, pressure points can form from lying on the skin, which may lead to uneven tanning in some cases. Stand-up tanning booths may offer a more consistent, all-around tan as you don’t create these pressure points when standing.
Indoor Tanning Equipment: The quality and features of the tanning equipment you choose are essential factors in determining the outcomes of your tanning sessions.
Examine the types of UV lamps, cooling systems, and other features before finalizing your decision on a tanning bed.
Which Type Of Tanning Bed Is Best For Indoor Tanning?
When choosing the ideal tanning bed for your indoor tanning needs, several factors play a significant role. Your tanning goals, experience, and personal preferences determine the best option for you.
Lay-down Tanning Beds These beds are the most common and provide the comfort of lying down while tanning.
If you’re new to tanning or prefer a more relaxed experience, this is a suitable option for you. Lay-down beds offer a gentle tanning experience, making them ideal for beginners.
However, since the body is in direct contact with the bed, it may result in uneven tanning or potential creasing in some areas.
Stand-up Tanning Booths For those with more tanning experience or seeking a quicker, more even tan, stand-up tanning booths might be the better choice.
These booths use higher wattage bulbs (around 160 watts) compared to lay-down beds (100-120 watts), resulting in faster tanning sessions.
Stand-up booths offer more space and enable better body movement to reach all angles, ensuring even coverage. These booths are also a great option for people with back problems or who feel claustrophobic in tight spaces.
When choosing a tanning salon, it’s essential to consider their equipment variety and indoor tanning techniques.
Some salons specialize in specific tanning methods, such as sunless tanning or high-pressure beds. Knowing your preferences can help guide your choice.
Tanning Bed Vs Stand-Up Tanning – Which Should You Choose?
When it comes to choosing between a lay-down and stand-up tanning bed, several key factors can help you make the right decision based on your preferences and needs.
Lay-down tanning beds are the traditional choice, and they typically offer a more relaxing experience. You simply lay on the bed, allowing the UV bulbs to tan your skin evenly.
Some lay-down beds come with extra features like facial tanning or shoulder tanning, which might make them more appealing for those who want a customized experience.
Stand-up tanning beds, also known as tanning booths, require you to stand during the tanning process.
These vertical booths contain stronger bulbs, usually around 160 watts, compared to the 100-120 watts found in lay-down beds. This means that stand-up tanning beds can lead to faster and deeper tans.
In terms of hygiene and cleanliness, stand-up tanning beds have an advantage. When using a lay-down bed, your skin is in direct contact with the surface, which can increase the risk of germs or bacteria transfer, even if the bed is regularly cleaned.
With a stand-up bed, you can be more confident in avoiding any potential germs since you don’t have to make contact with the surface, except for the floor.
Comfort is another factor in choosing between a lay-down and stand-up tanning bed. Lay-down beds offer a more relaxing experience as you can lie down, close your eyes, and enjoy the warmth.
Stand-up beds might be less comfortable because you need to stand for the duration of the tanning session.
However, if you experience any back pain or discomfort when lying down for extended periods, a stand-up bed might be more suitable for you.
Finally, consider your goal for tanning. If you’re looking for a quick, deep tan, then stand-up tanning beds may be the better choice due to their stronger bulbs.
If you want a more relaxing and leisurely tanning experience, then you might prefer a lay-down bed.
Do Stand-Up Sunbeds Tan You Faster?
When you’re looking to achieve a perfect tan, time is often a big factor. Stand-up sunbeds offer a faster tanning experience that can cater to your busy schedule.
Unlike lay-down beds, these sunbeds are designed with intense bulbs that allow for shorter tanning sessions, typically only 10 to 15 minutes long.
This means that you can get a quick tan on the go without having to spend an excessive amount of time in the tanning booth.
The key reason stand-up sunbeds work faster is the use of stronger bulbs and unique reflectors that emit more intense rays.
This results in a quicker tan while still offering an even distribution of UV radiation across your body.
Due to the increased intensity of these sunbeds, sensitive skin types should exercise caution, as sunburns may occur more quickly.
During the duration of your session in a stand-up sunbed, you’ll need to stand for the entire time with your arms raised to ensure an even application of the rays.
This position enables your entire body to be exposed to the UV radiation, making it ideal for those seeking a flawless and consistent tan.
It’s worth noting that while stand-up sunbeds allow you to achieve a faster tan, the results might not last as long compared to traditional lay-down tanning beds.
This is due to the increased penetration of UV rays, which can lead to more potential skin damage if not used responsibly.
Do You Need Tanning Lotion In Lay Down Tanning Beds And Stand-Up Tanning Beds?
Yes, using tanning lotion in both lay down, and stand-up tanning beds is essential for maintaining healthy skin and achieving a more even, longer-lasting tan.
Tanning lotions are specifically designed to help your skin maintain moisture, ensuring your skin doesn’t become too dry during the tanning process.
Tanning products come in various forms, including tanning accelerators, which can help speed up the tanning process and promote a deeper tan.
These products are typically absorbed by the skin, nourishing and hydrating it, while also enhancing melanin production.
When using tanning accelerators, make sure to choose a product compatible with your skin type and follow the instructions for proper application.
For those with sensitive skin, choose a tanning lotion formulated for your needs.
Certain tanning lotions are designed for sensitive skin and can provide added benefits such as soothing and calming ingredients like aloe vera and chamomile.
These products can also help prevent skin irritation during your tanning sessions.
Remember to apply the tanning lotion evenly to your entire body before getting in either a lay down or stand-up tanning bed.
This will help ensure a uniform tan and prevent uneven or patchy results. Don’t forget to include areas that are typically overlooked, such as the backs of your knees and elbows.
To recap, using tanning lotion in lay down tanning beds and stand-up tanning beds is essential, for several reasons:
- It keeps your skin moisturized, preventing dryness and discomfort.
- It helps achieve a more even and longer-lasting tan.
- Tanning accelerators can enhance melanin production and speed up the tanning process.
- Sensitive skin formulas are available for those who need extra care and protection.
Tips For A Longer Lasting Tanning Bed Tan
To achieve a longer-lasting tan from your tanning bed sessions, follow these tips to maximize your results and keep your skin looking its best.
- Exfoliate before tanning: Remove dead skin cells by exfoliating your skin before each session. This will allow the tanning bed UV rays to penetrate the skin more effectively, giving you a longer-lasting tan on both your face and body.
- Use proper tanning bed lotion: Invest in a good-quality tanning bed lotion that’s suitable for your skin type. High-quality lotions help your skin absorb the UV rays better, leading to a darker, long-lasting tan. Opt for lotions with or without bronzer, depending on your preference.
- Commit to a tanning schedule: Stick to a planned tanning schedule to achieve your desired results. Whichever tanning method you choose—stand up or lay down—ensure that you give your skin enough time to rest between sessions. Overexposure can lead to premature aging and skin damage.
- Moisturize after each session: Keep your skin hydrated by applying a high-quality moisturizer after each tanning session. Hydrated skin not only retains its tan longer but also feels healthier and smoother.
- Rotate between stand-up and lay-down tanning beds: To achieve a quick tan that’s even and long-lasting, consider alternating between stand-up and lay-down tanning beds. This helps in targeting different areas of your body and provides a more uniform tan.
- Limit your tanning time: Avoid overdoing it in tanning beds to prevent skin damage. For a dark tan that’s long-lasting, it’s better to have several short tanning sessions instead of one long session.
Summary
Lay-down and stand-up tanning beds are both popular options for achieving a sun-kissed glow without the harmful effects of UV rays.
When selecting the best type of tanning bed for your needs, consider personal preference, comfort level, indoor tanning equipment, and goals.
Stand-up sunbeds often offer faster results due to higher wattage bulbs and unique reflectors while lay-down beds provide more relaxation and leisurely tanning experience.
Each type of sunbed comes with its own advantages — lay down beds may result in even tans while stand up sunbeds can offer quicker results—allowing you to tailor your choice based on your individual preferences and needs.
Remember that whichever method you choose, proper protection from overexposure should always be practiced as well as using high-quality lotions suitable for your skin type.
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