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High Pressure vs Low Pressure Tanning Beds: Key Differences
Feb 06 ,2026

High Pressure vs Low Pressure Tanning Beds: Key Differences

Tanning beds in salons provide a cosmetic tan to the skin by exposing it to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. In salons, one can generally find different tanning equipment options including low, pressure and high pressure beds, stand up tanning booths, lay down Tanning Beds, and hybrid tanning systems that use different lamp technologies.

Each type differs in the level of UV exposure, duration of sessions, tanning outcomes, and the cost of running. One of the most popular and frequently compared choices among the options is the use of high pressure and low pressure tanning beds.


What Is a High Pressure Tanning Bed?

A high pressure tanning bed makes use of powerful quartz lamps along with special glass filters. These filters block the majority of UVB rays while allowing a higher concentration of UVA rays to pass through. Therefore, tanning sessions get shorter and the tan usually reaches deeper into the skin and stays longer.

What Is a Low Pressure Tanning Bed?

A low pressure tanning bed works with regular fluorescent lamps which give out both UVA and UVB rays. These beds tan the surface of the skin slowly and normally longer or more frequent sessions are needed. They are the most common type of tanning beds you will see in salons because the cost of the equipment and its operation is lower.

High Pressure vs Low Pressure Tanning Beds Comparison

Feature

High Pressure Tanning Beds

Low Pressure Tanning Beds

Lamp type

High-intensity quartz lamps

Fluorescent lamps

UV output

Primarily UVA with very low UVB

Mix of UVA and UVB

Tanning depth

Penetrates deeper skin layers

Affects mainly surface layers

Session duration

Shorter session times

Longer session times

Results

Darker tan that lasts longer

Gradual and lighter tan

Session frequency

Fewer sessions needed

More sessions required

Heat output

Produces more heat

Produces less heat

Equipment cost

Higher initial investment

Lower initial investment

Maintenance

Higher lamp and service costs

Lower maintenance costs

Typical use

Premium or advanced salon services

Standard salon tanning services


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Important Health Note

Overall, tanning beds are not safe for health. Being exposed to UV radiation increases the risk of skin damage, premature aging, and eye injury. The risk of skin cancer, including melanoma, is very high when using high pressure tanning beds due to extreme UVA exposure.


Read our blog on the comparison of Standup Vs Laydown Tanning beds.

Conclusion


No matter which type of tanning bed your salon offers, high pressure or low pressure, if your tanning service produces UV radiation, it is subject to a 10% federal excise tax. Paying this tax ensures compliance with regulations enforced by the Internal Revenue Service.
Choose a reliable online portal to file your Tanning Excise Tax Online accurately and on time.

Simple720 is an IRS-authorized online filing solution. File now and stay compliant with confidence.

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