Tanning Bulbs

While a tanning bed has a number of components, the most important is the tanning bulbs. If you are thinking about starting a tanning salon, it is essential you understand the significance and maintenance requirements associated with the various types of tanning bulbs. With this, you will be able to operate a top-notch salon with happy customers. In this article, we wanted to provide you with information on various types of tanning bulbs.

First, there are low pressure tanning bulbs, which are similar to fluorescent bulbs. This type of gas-discharge lamp uses a different type of process from that of a high-pressure bulb. In this case, gas pressure is a lot lower. In addition, with these tanning bulbs, there is no clear layer. Instead, on the inside are phosphors.

With tanning bulbs, they create UV light similar to a fluorescent light, which is used for standard home lighting. However, again the phosphors used are what make the difference. In this case, the mechanism used to produce light radiation is known as the photo-luminescence process. Transformed radiation passes through the glass of the tanning bulbs, which serves as a filter while also causing modification of the emission spectrum.

Next, there are RUVA tanning bulbs, which were first introduced more than 10 years ago. For this type of bulb, instead of using external reflectors for preventing light from being lost at the end of the lamp, the RUVA tanning bulbs have an internal reflective coating, which is designed to cover a 220-degree area of the lights inside. With this, all of the output is focused on the front portion of the lamp.

The greatest difference with RUVA tanning bulbs is that they provide more intense UV output, which means exposure time can be reduced. Each lamp with its reflector assures that UV rays developed on the inside of the lamp reach the skin without loss. Without the need for external reflectors, RUVA tanning bulbs can be mounted close together, which produces greater output without needing more space.

VHO tanning bulbs, meaning “very high output” are for professional use, showing a higher UVB percentage. VHO tanning bulbs are also reflector bulbs, having a reflector that is built into the actual lamp. With this, the rays can focus more intensely. Considered a higher power consumption with 140 to 160 watt output, these tanning bulbs are a top choice for salon owners.