High-Pressure Tanning

Modern equipment choices feature brightly colored, full-body wraparound canopies, high-powered adjustable cooling fans, easy-to-replace snap-in lamps, digital bed controls positioned at eye level, and voice prompting. High-pressure manufacturers are focusing on lamp placement and output on the UV spectrum rather than bombarding the tanner with increased wattage and heat. In addition to providing great tanning results, it reduces the amount of heat output, which in turn saves the salon in energy costs.

High-pressure equipment is available in traditional beds or standup versions, which offers myriad choices when it comes to planning space. Tanning salon owners are continuing to purchase high-pressure units so as to offer a more diverse mix of tanning options for their customers. A tanner in this type of mix often is encouraged to rotate between the high-pressure and low-pressure units in order to maintain a deeper, darker tan, as well as maintain optimal levels of vitamin D.

Since little or no vitamin D is produced by wavelengths higher than 315 nm, high-pressure alone is not an effective system for producing this important vitamin. This is one reason some salons have clients who alternate between high-pressure and low-pressure systems. Tanning in both systems gives the tanner the best benefits and features of both lamp types.

Industry insiders agree that high-pressure tanning will continue to grow because of its unique features and benefits. Salons that feature a mix of low-, medium- and high-pressure tanning will continue to benefit from customers upgrading for the added value of high-pressure tanning. The key is to properly educate customers on the benefits of high-pressure tanning and how it adds to their overall tanning experience.