Lamp Trends '08

Tanning lamps traditionally are the second-largest investment a salon owner makes—behind tanning equipment—and, if done right, one of the most profitable. Many factors influence the production and life of a tanning lamp, and salon owners and their employees need to fully understand the function, construction and maintenance requirements in order to offer the best possible service to their customers. (For a list of common lamp terms and definitions, check out the LF Lamp Glossary.)

Lamp manufacturers continue to develop lamps with characteristics that cater to tanners who desire UV exposure that reduces tanning time while offering the ultraviolet combination that best suits their tanning needs. As a result, there are many tanning lamps on the market with varying UVA and UVB blends. The specific composition of the output mainly is governed by the qualities of the phosphors used, but other important factors include electrodes, the gas filling and the trace amount of mercury found in sealed lamps.

In recent years, lamp suppliers have rolled out new innovations including dual-phosphor lamps and twisted glass tubes. This technology virtually eliminates end blackening and makes it possible for lamps to produce never-before-achieved levels of performance.

For the 2008 season, manufacturers are working hard to evenly distribute heat in the lamp and extend its service life. Many suppliers also are diversifying their offerings to include more vertical applications for stand-up units.

Technological advancements include an increased number of tanning photons with a reduced number of photo-aging photons to achieve the deepest, darkest tan possible from a low-pressure lamp. Manufacturers also are engineering newer lamps that offer the benefits of high-pressure tanning in a low-pressure lamp.

Lamp suppliers, equipment manufacturers and salon operators also are realizing the need to “go green.” Do you remember the EPA campaign to “Reduce, Reuse & Recycle?” Salon owners can do their part to recycle and reduce waste in regard to tanning bed lamps, and manufacturers are striving to make this a mainstream practice in the industry.