Approximately 1 in 4 indoor tanning facilities now refer to their UV tanning units as “sunbeds” — a term that accurately portrays the fact that sunbeds are, above all else, a surrogate for natural sunshine.

“While professional indoor tanning facilities conduct their services as cosmetic businesses, UV tanning units were first invented to serve as a substitute for outdoor sunshine in parts of the world where regular sunshine is scarce,” Smart Tan Executive Director Joseph Levy said. “That’s just part of teaching a balanced message about sun care and sunburn prevention.”

According to the SmartTan.com poll, 70 percent of salons call their UV units indoor tanning beds, while 24 percent refer to them as “sunbeds.” The remaining 6 percent use different terms.

SmartTan.com news articles regularly report medical and scientific information to keep you abreast of current events related to UV light. This information is not intended to be used by any party to make unwarranted health claims to promote sunbed usage. Indoor tanning businesses are obligated to communicate a fair and balanced message to all clients about your products and services including the potential risks associated with indoor tanning. Contact your Smart Tan representative to find out more about what you can and can’t say in your tanning salon business.

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