The technology behind tanning beds comes in two basic designs. The most common actually resembles a bed and takes the form of a clam shaped shell or capsule. Inside the capsule, the client lies down on a sheet of Plexiglas through which shines ultraviolet rays emitted by bright UVA and/or UVB bulbs.
The second kind of tanning machine is not a bed at all but more like a booth. Often called, a 'stand up'. It is the same idea as a regular tanning bed, except a client steps into a vertical chamber. The intention of both these kinds of units is the same: to provide the client with an ultraviolet spectrum of rays that mimics the effects of the sun.
 Tanning-beds come in two "strengths". A traditional or older tanning-bed boasts both UVA and UVB light bulbs. These are the same rays given by the sun. However, research has shown in the last decade that doses of UVB rays can be harmful, and many tanning-bed owners have switched to offering beds that sport more UVA and less or no UVB rays. UVA rays are thought to be less harmful as they can penetrate the skin to the deeper layers without causing immediate, significant damage to the top skin layers.
The Case Against Tanning Beds ~ Ultraviolet Radiation
The group against tanning beds relies on evidence that the ultraviolet radiation emitted by tanning bed bulbs is harmful and can cause various types of skin cancer including: Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC), Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC), and Melanoma.
To the opponents of tanning beds dismay, there is no real conclusive study that links the use of tanning beds to any particular type of cancer or negative effects. This side is fueled only by inconclusive evidence that suggests cancer and tanning are linked. What they can say with authority is that certain skin types, such as very fair skin, are most certainly more susceptible to melanoma or other types of skin cancer regardless of whether or not the person uses a tanning bed or is exposed to sunlight.
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