Why people often confuse red light therapy and tanning beds.
At a glance, red light therapy (RLT) and tanning beds can look similar. Both involve reclining in a light-emitting device, and some beds even share a comparable shape or footprint. This visual similarity understandably leads to confusion. However, the type of light delivered, and its biological effects, are entirely different.
The biggest difference: UV vs. non-UV light
The defining distinction between tanning beds and red light therapy is the presence, or absence, of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Tanning beds emit UVA and often UVB light to stimulate melanin production and darken skin. Medical-grade red light therapy uses specific red and near-infrared wavelengths that do not tan the skin and do not damage DNA.
- Tanning beds: UVA/UVB radiation → melanin activation and tanning
- Red light therapy: visible red/near-infrared → cellular energy support
- RLT wavelengths are non-ionizing and non-UV
UV exposure and skin risks
Ultraviolet radiation is a well-established skin carcinogen. Indoor tanning has been linked to increased risks of melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and premature skin aging. In contrast, red and near-infrared light used in therapeutic devices has been studied for skin repair, inflammation modulation, and collagen support without UV-related risks.
- UV damages DNA and accelerates photoaging
- Indoor tanning increases melanoma risk, especially in young users
- Non-UV RLT does not cause tanning or UV-related skin injury
Who should avoid tanning beds
Health organizations advise that certain groups should avoid tanning beds entirely due to heightened risk. This includes individuals with fair or photosensitive skin, a personal or family history of skin cancer, numerous moles, or conditions or medications that increase photosensitivity.
- Fair-skinned individuals or those who burn easily
- Personal/family history of melanoma or skin cancer
- Photosensitizing medications or conditions
Why we don’t offer tanning services
Our studio is dedicated to restorative, non-UV light therapy designed to support cellular function and whole-body wellness. Because tanning beds rely on UV exposure, and carry known skin risks, they fall outside our clinical philosophy and safety standards. We focus exclusively on medical-grade red and near-infrared light that aligns with evidence-based, skin-safe care.
- UV exposure conflicts with our safety-first approach
- Our devices deliver non-UV therapeutic wavelengths only
- We prioritize long-term skin health and recovery
Deeper reading: UV risk and light therapies
- World Health Organization, Ultraviolet radiation and health: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/ultraviolet-radiation-and-health
- American Academy of Dermatology, Indoor tanning risks: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/skin-cancer/surprising-facts-indoor-tanning
- Harvard Health Publishing, Red light therapy for skin care: https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/red-light-therapy-for-skin-care
Want Skin Support without Harsh Treatments or UV Exposure?
Our $79 new client session connects your skin goals, tone, texture, or simply confidence in your own skin, with safe, non-UV red and near infrared light therapy and a realistic plan you can maintain.
