Tanning beds are available in horizontal and vertical shapes. Although horizontal beds are very much popular and convenient to use, the vertical ones are more effective. Horizontal tanning beds are coffin-like and the person would have to lie still in it for a few hours to absorb the ultraviolet rays that bring about the tan. Some people might feel uncomfortable lying in a bench. Vertical tanning beds are also known as stand-ups and they are also available as UV-free booths.

Another important thing you need to know is the intensity of ultraviolet rays provided by the tanning beds. Make sure that the tanning bed you buy is made to give out short-wave ultraviolet rays just like the ones emitted by the sun. Long-wave ultraviolet rays are dangerous for health as they penetrate deep down and can even cause cancer and serious skin diseases. You need to know the ratio of UVA to UVB rays and that it should be very low.

There are certain precautions that you need to follow before using any tanning bed at home. First of all check your skin type. If you have a freckled or red skin, or a skin that is too fair then using tanning beds could be harmful for you. Also, do not expose yourself for more than 5 to 6 hours in a tanning bed; otherwise you may develop irreversible and non-uniform tan throughout your body. In addition to this, the fairer parts of your body may be permanently burned. Lastly, if you are under 18 years of age then using tanning beds would not be suitable for you.