Do any tanning beds get extra hot?

Tanning beds are designed to emit ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which is responsible for tanning the skin. The intensity of the UV radiation emitted by a tanning bed is regulated by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), which sets standards for the safe use of tanning equipment. According to the IEC, the maximum permissible UV radiation dose for a single tanning session is 0.3 Joules per square centimeter (J/cm²). This means that tanning beds should not emit more than 0.3 J/cm² of UV radiation during a single tanning session.

However, some tanning beds may emit higher levels of UV radiation than the IEC's recommended limit. These tanning beds are often referred to as "high-intensity" or "high-output" tanning beds. High-intensity tanning beds can emit up to 10 times more UV radiation than standard tanning beds, which can increase the risk of skin cancer and other skin damage.

If you are considering using a tanning bed, it is important to choose a bed that meets the IEC's recommended UV radiation dose limit. You should also avoid using tanning beds if you have a history of skin cancer or other skin conditions, or if you are taking medications that make your skin more sensitive to UV radiation.