How do the machines in tanning salons work?

Answer 1

For a long time, the only way you could tan at a tanning studio was in a tanning bed, which is primarily UVA light. Research has shown tanning bed exposure to be linked to cancer.

You can also get a spray tan at some tanning studios now. A spray tan is a good alternative for two reasons: less link to cancer and shorter time spent in achieving a tan.

While tanning at a tanning studio is not terribly expensive, one can also save money by skipping the tanning studio altogether and purchasing over the counter tanning lotions. But beware - if applied improperly you may end up looking a bit too much like George Harrison.

Answer 2

Tanning beds use special light bulbs to mimic the light given off by the sun. These bulbs emit a combination of UVA and UVB radiation to enable the user to obtain an even, golden tan.