If you have been searching for “UVB tanning beds near me” and wondering what the difference between bed levels actually means for your results, you will find the answer here. Many people start their search for a quality tanning salon without knowing that bed levels make a real difference in how quickly you tan, how deep your color develops, and how comfortable each session feels.
At SolShine Tanning & Wellness in Malvern, PA, we help clients understand these differences every day. The right bed for you depends on your skin type, your experience with indoor tanning, and the kind of results you want to achieve. Here is what you need to know before your next session.
What “Bed Level” Actually Means
Tanning bed levels are not just marketing categories. They reflect real differences in equipment design, lamp wattage, UV output, and the features that make each session comfortable and effective.
At SolShine, our equipment is organized into four levels: Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Diamond. When clients ask about Level 1 versus Level 3, they are typically comparing our Silver beds to our Platinum beds. Here is how they differ.
Level 1 (Silver): A Steady, Gradual Start
Our Silver-level units, the Tanses 38 and Suncapsule 160, feature 38 100-watt lamps that replicate the sun’s natural light spectrum. Sessions run up to 20 minutes, giving your skin time to build color gradually and safely.
Silver beds work best for:
- First-time tanners building an initial base
- Fair skin types who need a slower, more controlled introduction to UV
- Anyone looking for a budget-friendly option that fits comfortably into their routine
If any of these sound like you, Silver is the right place to start. Our staff highly recommend beginning here so your skin has time to adapt before moving to more intensive equipment.
Level 3 (Platinum): More Power, Faster Results
Our Platinum-level beds, the Ergoline Classic 600 and Ergoline Avantgarde 600, are built for clients who want richer, deeper color in less time. These units feature 50 160-watt lamps with a touch more UVB to boost melanin production. Sessions top out at 12 minutes, and the results reflect that efficiency.
Platinum beds also include comfort upgrades like shoulder lamps, high-pressure adjustable facials, and high-powered fans. The Avantgarde 600 adds a chaise lounge-style bench, air conditioning, and back-of-neck lamps for even, thorough coverage.
Platinum beds work well for:
- Clients with an established base tan (Fitzpatrick Types III and IV)
- Those preparing for a vacation or event on a specific timeline
- Anyone who wants a more efficient session without sacrificing quality
If you already have a base and are ready to take your color deeper, Platinum gives you the output and the comfort to do it right.
UV Output and Safety: What You Should Know
UVB rays trigger melanin production in your skin. More UVB means faster color development, but it also means your skin needs to be ready for it. Jumping into a high-intensity bed before your skin has adapted can lead to uneven results or overexposure.
This is why bed progression matters. Starting at Silver, building your base over several sessions, and then moving up to Platinum gives your skin time to respond in a healthy, controlled way. Our staff will always recommend the right pace for your skin type and goals.
At SolShine, we also replace our bulbs twice as often as the manufacturer recommends. That means the UV output you are getting is consistent and accurate every single time, not degraded from overused equipment. You get exactly the session you came for.
Beyond UV: Spray Tanning and Light Therapy Options
Not every client wants UV exposure, and that is perfectly fine. If you prefer a sunless option, our Mystic Tan Unity stand-up booth delivers an automatic, streak-free spray tanning result in just minutes. It is quick, even, and mess-free, with color that develops in as little as four hours.
We also offer red and blue light therapy, which supports anti-aging goals by improving collagen production, reducing fine lines, and promoting overall skin rejuvenation. Many clients pair these wellness services with their regular tanning routine for results that go well beyond a surface-level glow.
Tips for Getting the Best Results From Your Session
No matter which bed level you choose, a few simple habits can help you get the most out of every visit.
- Use the right lotion. Our staff can recommend an MRI Intelligent tanning product suited to your skin type and goals. Lotions designed for indoor use help you tan faster, keep your skin hydrated, and make your color last longer.
- Protect sensitive areas. If you are new to tanning, consider wearing protective eyewear and applying an SPF lip balm to prevent overexposure in thinner-skinned areas.
- Follow session time recommendations. The timers on each bed are there for a reason. Sticking to your recommended time helps you avoid burns and build a more even, longer-lasting tan.
- Give your skin time to rest. Waiting at least 24 hours between sessions allows your tan to develop fully and keeps your skin from becoming irritated.
These small steps make a noticeable difference over time. You walk out looking better and feeling more confident in your skin.
Ready to Find Your Perfect Tan?
Level 1 and Level 3 beds serve different needs, and the right choice depends on your skin type, your experience level, and the results you are working toward. At SolShine Tanning & Wellness, we take the guesswork out of it. Our certified team will assess your skin, walk you through your options, and make sure you leave with exactly the results you came for.
Do not wait to get the glow you deserve. Book your tanning session today and discover what makes SolShine Tanning & Wellness the most trusted name in tanning and wellness.
