Tanning beds are popular at salons and private homes around the world. Most people seek to tan in a tanning bed because of the many benefits and ease of use they bring. Because tanning beds control the amount of UV rays that a person can receive, this provides a safer tan for both the seasoned tanner and the beginner. Most tanning salons also offer hydro units that use UVB rays which cause less damage to the skin and require fewer visits to maintain and keep a good base tan.
Privacy
One of the main effects of tanning in a tanning bed is the privacy that the person receives either at a home bed or commercial unit. Most public tanning beds are located in private rooms where the tanner can change into their bathing suit or other comfortable clothing to prepare for tanning. There is no lying on the beach in a bikini in front of hundreds of prying eyes. For those who prefer to have no tan lines---they may feel comfortable going topless or bottomless in a tanning bed.
Timing
One effect of tanning in a tanning bed is being able to control the time spent under the rays. This is beneficial to those who are trying to reduce their exposure to UVA and UVB rays. Short frequent trips to a tanning bed will result in building a slow and steady tan while reducing burn damage to the skin. Some people prefer the less amount of time they put into their tan in a bed as opposed to being outside. The bed will penetrate both sides of the body at the same time, unlike the sun---which the person has to flip over sporadically to receive equal amounts of rays and exposure.
Convenience
Some people like the effect that tanning has as a convenience. This allows them to tan whenever they want---even when they have minimal time to do so. Lunch breaks, before or after work are often popular times for people to visit the tanning salon. The convenience effect is also beneficial in the winter time or on rainy days when a person cannot visit the beach or lay outdoors because of inclement weather.
Tan Control
Tanning control is a positive effect of tanning in a tanning bed. Choosing what type of bed---low or high pressure, will help give the person the tan they want to achieve. Low pressure tanning beds often use lower UV bulbs and the results take longer to achieve than with a high pressure bed. High pressure beds offer strong UVB penetration and air circulation to keep the body cool while under the lamps. The result is a faster, darker tan in a shorter amount of time.
Skin Damage
One of the more harmful effects of tanning in a tanning bed is the damage it can evoke onto the skin. Prolonged use of tanning beds can cause wrinkles and drying, aging skin. Liver spots or sun spots are also common on people who overuse UV tanning bed rays. Those with light skin, light colored eyes and hair also have an increased risk for skin burns and peeling skin. Tanning beds also increase the risk of one of the deadliest forms of skin cancer---melanoma. According to the Melanoma Center, this type of skin cancer kills on average 7,400 people per year.
