Are lay down sunbeds more powerful?

Author: Dr. Bernhard Medhurst Sr.  |  Last update: Monday, June 9, 2025

One of the significant drawbacks of stand up tanning beds is that they can be more intense than lay down beds. Because the bulbs are closer to your body, you may be exposed to more UV rays, which can increase the risk of skin damage and other health concerns.

Are lie down or stand up sunbeds better?

Lie down tanning beds may be a better option for beginners as they provide a more relaxing introduction to indoor tanning. However, stand-up beds can also be preferred for those who want a quick, even tan without pressure points.

What tanning bed gets you the darkest?

Level 3 offers medium pressure lamps with lower UV rays and more UVA rays, providing a faster and deeper tan than Level 1 and Level 2. And finally Level 4 tanning beds (and up) feature ridiculously fast tanning times, with sometimes next to zero UVB rays, guaranteeing a dark tan with virtually no chance of a sunburn.

What is a 10 minute sunbed equivalent to?

Ten minutes in a sunbed can be roughly equivalent to 1-2 hours in natural sunlight, depending on factors like sunbed intensity and skin type. However, this varies widely based on geographical location, time of day, and weather conditions. Always adhere to recommended exposure times to minimise skin damage risks.

Which sunbed is stronger?

Tanning Differences in Stand up and Lay down Sunbeds

Stand up sunbeds can give your skin a deeper colour, which is due to the bulbs in stand up beds being more intense than the bulbs in a lay down sunbed. So if you are aiming to achieve a very dark tan then a stand up may be the sunbed for you!

How To Use The Tanning Beds

What tanning bed gets you tan the fastest?

High-pressure beds emit stronger UV rays, ensuring quicker tanning and shorter exposure times. These beds are ideal for those who want to achieve a fast tan without spending long hours in the salon.

Do you have to turn over on a lie-down sunbed?

Q4: Do I have to turn around on a sunbed? A: Sunbeds have lights all the way around the front and the back so you are tanning all over your body you do not need to turn around halfway through unlike when you are on holiday and you end up tanned at the front and not at the back because you prefer laying on your back!

What not to do after tanning bed?

Avoid using harsh or fragranced products immediately after tanning, as they may further irritate the skin.

How to get a darker tan on sunbeds?

If you're using our lay-down or stand-up sun beds, we recommend starting back at 4 or 5 minutes for your first few sun beds. Having fewer minutes more frequently will build you a darker, longer-lasting tan faster than visiting just once a week and opting for more minutes.

Will 3 minutes in a tanning bed do anything?

Recommended Frequency of Tanning Bed Use

Each session should be brief, around 3-10 minutes, depending on your skin type. After the initial week, if your skin is responding well (no burns or excessive redness), you can gradually increase your sessions to three to four times per week.

Why am I not going brown on a sunbed?

One of the biggest factors that affects tanning is your skin type. Not all skin reacts to UV the same way, and understanding your skin type is key to setting realistic tanning goals. For example, if you are a red head and have very light skin, you'll more likely struggle to tan due to low melanin.

How to tan quicker on sunbeds?

Summary. In summary, the best ways to get a faster tan using sunbeds are to start with a base tan, use a high-pressure sunbed, consider using a tanning accelerator, follow the recommended exposure time, stay hydrated, and use moisturizer. By following these tips and taking precautions to protect your skin.

What is the healthiest form of tanning?

According to Dr. Peter Katz, board-certified dermatologist with Forefront Dermatology, “there is no such thing as a healthy or safe tan. Tanned skin is a result of damage to the skin cells, your skin producing pigment in response to UV damage in an attempt to protect itself.

Do you tan better lying down?

Stand-up beds allow your body to tan all around without any pressure points, leading to a more even tan. Some people like them even better because the body isn't in direct contact with the bed. To achieve the best and most even tan, it's crucial to rotate between using lay-down and stand-up beds.

Do sunbeds help with weight loss?

Indoor tanning can help you lose weight! This is by boosting your metabolism, indoor tanning facilitates fat burning, leading to weight loss.

Why is a stand-up sunbed faster?

A quicker way to tan

Stand-up tanning is typically quicker than laying down options as the bulbs are stronger. The stronger the tanning lamp, the least time required to get your desired results and that wonderful deep, dark tan that you have always dreamed of.

Why won't my skin tan in a tanning bed?

Dry skin doesn't tan well. Keep your skin moisturized daily to ensure a more even tan. You should use a lightweight, non-greasy lotion leading up to your tanning session, and avoid products with oils or heavy fragrances that might interfere with tanning products or sunscreen.

How to avoid bunny tail in tanning bed?

☀️Tanning Tip Tuesday☀️ How to avoid the “bunny tail” or white spots on lower back or under your arms or sides: ✅ when using a lay down bed always reposition your body every few minutes to achieve an even tan. Switch from side to side and rest your arms behind your head .

How do you get a golden tan in a tanning bed?

6 Top Tanning Tips for a Darker and Long-lasting Tan
  1. Exfoliate your Skin prior to Tanning. ...
  2. Keep your Skin Hydrated and Moisturised. ...
  3. Apply a sunbed cream or tanning accelerator prior tanning.
  4. Remove any kind of makeup and other cosmetic products. ...
  5. Choose foods that accelerate tanning.

Are you supposed to flip over in a tanning bed?

No, you don't need to flip over in a tanning bed. In fact, many people tan stomach-down because it's more comfortable that way. However, if you want an evenly distributed tan, then you should flip over halfway through your session so that both sides of your body get equal exposure to the UV rays.

How to maximize tanning bed results?

Master Tanning 101: How To Take Your Tanning To The Next Level
  1. Shower and Exfoliate.
  2. Avoid lotions, deodorant, makeup or oil based based products and perfume.
  3. Shave 24 hours before appointment.
  4. Wear loose-fitting clothing.
  5. Avoid water or excessive sweating for 4-6 hours.

Can you take your phone on sunbeds?

Many of our clients frequently use their phones whilst lying on a sunbed whilst still wearing the sunbed goggles. In the short term this is ok to do but the temperature, humidity and frequencies emitted by the beds may possibly cause damage to the electronics of your phone.

What foods make you more tanned?

Papaya: Like carrots, orange fruits and vegetables, such as papaya, help to enhance your tan naturally thanks to its high beta-carotene levels. Melon: This refreshing fruit, rich in antioxidants and beta-carotenes will help you to keep your golden skin tone.

Do you wear a bra on a sunbed?

As you are the only one in the room with the sunbed, many people tan naked to avoid tan lines, however it is just as normal to wear underwear or a bikini whilst tanning.

Why is my back not tanning in the tanning bed?

When laying down on a sunbed, the bulk of your weight is carried by your tailbone and shoulder blades. This pressure often results in those areas not tanning properly, leaving untanned 'white' spots.

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