Table of Contents Introduction: The Appeal of Red Light Therapy at Tanning Salons The Reality of Red Light Therapy at a Reality of Red Light Therapy at a Tanning Salon Red Light Therapy at Tanning Salon Cost vs. At-Home Panels Clinical Trials: What Science Says About Red Light Therapy Before and After: What Results Can You Expect? Conclusion: Is an At-Home Red Light Therapy Panel the Better Choice? FAQs: Answering Common Questions Introduction: The Appeal of Red Light Therapy at Tanning Salons Red light therapy's anti-aging, muscle-repairing, and skin-enhancing properties have drawn a lot of interest from the health and cosmetic sectors. It has recently emerged in tanning salons, where it is promoted as a non-invasive skin and recovery therapy, after previously being available at medical spas and dermatology clinics only.UV radiation, which darkens the skin but also causes premature aging and possible damage, is often linked to tanning salons. In contrast, red light treatment promotes cellular-level natural healing and rejuvenation processes without tanning or damaging the skin. Despite their seeming convenience, red light treatment beds at tanning clinics are often more expensive, have lower power outputs, and provide less customized options. With the widespread availability of professional-grade at-home panels, many people are left questioning whether purchasing a personal device is the better long-term option or if red light treatment at a tanning salon is really worth it. Why More Tanning Salons Are Offering Red Light Therapy UV tanning beds were the popular offerings of tanning salons, although they have since changed. Many consumers are looking for healthier options as they become more aware of the dangers of excessive UV exposure, which include early wrinkles, skin damage, and an increased chance of skin cancer. Many salons have responded to this change by introducing red light therapy beds, which they advertise as a safe, skin-friendly procedure that helps: ✔ Reduce fine lines and creases ✔ Increase the formation of collagen and elastin✔ Enhance skin tone and texture✔ Facilitate muscle repair; and ✔ Lessen joint discomfort. By providing red light therapy as a new service, tanning salons draw in new clients and giving those who are worried about UV damage an alternate course of treatment. Red light treatment sessions are now often included in salon memberships as health packages, enticing customers to utilize them frequently in addition to their tanning regimens. However, even while salon-based red light therapy could seem like a convenient method to get this treatment, it's important to think about whether these sessions are more effective than at-home alternatives. The Reality of Red Light Therapy at a Tanning Salon Due to a number of drawbacks, professional-grade at-home devices are often more effective than red light treatment beds used in tanning salons, even if the former may provide some of the advantages mentioned above. What Happens in a Red Light Therapy Session? Customers may lay down on full-body red light treatment beds for ten to twenty minutes in the majority of tanning clinics. There are also stand-up red light booths in several sites. Sessions are often promoted as a brief, calming procedure intended to increase circulation, lessen wrinkles, and improve skin health. While some salons charge for the visit, others have membership packages that permit many sessions each week. Although these sessions can appear convenient, a number of important aspects determine how successful salon-based red light treatment is in practice. The Limitations of Salon-Based Red Light Therapy ❌ Reduced Light Intensity (Irradiance): Professional-grade home panels penetrate deeper than the majority of salon red light beds, which utilize lower-power LEDs. ❌ Lack of Customization: Depending on their demands, consumers cannot modify the wavelengths or intensity levels of salon beds. ❌ Expensive Over Time: Compared to an at-home panel, long-term therapy is much more costly, with each sessions costing anywhere from $25 to $100. Although salon treatments may be helpful, they are less successful over the long run because they lack the potency, personalization, and cost of at-home red light therapy panels. Red Light Therapy at Tanning Salon Cost vs. At-Home Panels While red light treatment at tanning clinics may seem handy, the expense of repeated appointments adds up rapidly. Many salons charge by the session or offer memberships, but are you getting the most value for money? Breaking Down the Cost of Salon Sessions Over Time A single session of red light treatment in a tanning salon normally ranges from $25 to $100, depending on location and service type. Some salons offer monthly memberships ranging from $200 to $600, which provide customers access to limitless sessions. Let's look at the possible long-term costs of salon red light treatment: Timeframe Estimated Salon Cost Per Session $25 - $100 Per Month (Membership) $200 - $600 6 Months $1,200 - $3,600 1 Year $2,400 - $7,200 2 Years $4,800 - $14,400 In contrast, a high-quality at-home red light treatment panel ranges in price from $500 to $3,000, depending on size and features. A one-time investment in an at-home gadget may save thousands of dollars in the long run, since it provides limitless usage with no continuing costs. Why Investing in a Personal Device Is the Smarter Choice 1. No monthly fees with unlimited use. A Total Spectrum Red Light Therapy panel offers free daily red light treatment sessions. Salon treatments need continuing payments, so even if you pay for several sessions, you will never own the equipment. 2. Higher irradiance levels in salon red light beds need more frequent sessions to get the same outcomes as an at-home panel with fewer treatments. 3. Convenient Home Use: No need for appointments or commuting to a salon. Use it as part of your skincare or wellness regimen, including before bed or first thing in the morning. Clinical Trials: What Science Says About Red Light Therapy Scientific research continues to back up the advantages of red light treatment for skin regeneration, muscular rehabilitation, and general well-being. Clinical experiments have investigated how certain wavelengths influence collagen formation, inflammation reduction, and mood modulation. The following are major studies that show the efficacy of red light treatment: Study 1: Reversing Skin Aging with Red Light Therapy ObjectiveThis research looked at whether red light therapy at 630nm may improve skin elasticity, decrease wrinkles, and improve complexion after three months of constant usage. Researchers tested a red LED mask with a power density of 15.6 J/cm² on individuals to see whether it affected typical symptoms of aging. ResultsResearchers assessed skin texture, elasticity, and pore size decrease after one, two, and three months. The results revealed incremental but considerable improvements in all individuals. Every person experienced better skin, improved tone, and greater firmness. ConclusionRed light treatment at 630nm increased collagen formation, reduced fine wrinkles, improved suppleness, and balanced oil production. The results continued for up to a month after treatment was stopped, indicating long-term skin regeneration rather than a momentary cosmetic impact [1]. How This Relates to Red Light Therapy at Tanning SalonsSalon-based red light treatment beds often employ weaker LED systems with lower irradiance, which means that effects take longer to appear. At-home Total Spectrum devices, notably the Total Spectrum MINI and COMPACT, emit 630nm and 660nm wavelengths at greater power levels, providing more effective and long-lasting skin benefits. Study 2: Near-Infrared Light and Its Impact on Mood and Well-Being ObjectiveScientists investigated whether exposure to 850 nm near-infrared (NIR) light may improve mood, lessen tiredness, and promote wellbeing, particularly in the winter months when there is less natural sunlight interaction. To determine the effect of NIR light (6.5 J/cm2) on energy levels and mental clarity, participants were exposed to it in the mornings for four weeks. ResultsExposure to near-infrared light was associated with a more steady heart rate, less sleepiness, and an enhanced mood. Interestingly, the benefits were strongest during the winter, when exposure to natural light is lower. ConclusionThe use of near-infrared light, especially at 850 nm, in consistent sessions seems to promote attentiveness, stress reduction, and overall well-being. Those with the least amount of sun exposure benefited the most, supporting the notion that regular exposure to red and near-infrared light might have a good impact on general health [2]. How This Relates to Red Light Therapy at Tanning SalonsThe majority of salon red light treatment beds may not have strong near-infrared wavelengths for deeper tissue stimulation and mood improvement, and concentrate solely on skin advantages. The 810nm, 830nm, and 850nm variants of at-home Total Spectrum panels—especially the ULTRA and ELITE models—offer potent NIR light treatment that has been shown to increase circulation, lessen tiredness, and improve mental clarity. Study 3: Clinical Applications of Red Light Therapy for Skin, Pain, and Healing ObjectiveLow-level light therapy (LLLT) was reviewed in this study for its therapeutic uses in wound healing, muscular rehabilitation, acne treatment, and skin rejuvenation. The research investigated how the body's inherent mechanisms to lower inflammation, encourage tissue healing, and maintain long-term skin health are impacted by red and near-infrared wavelengths. ResultsThe studies that were part of this review showed: • Red light at 630–660 nm efficiently increased collagen synthesis for anti-aging and skin rejuvenation effects. • Near-infrared light at 810–850 nm decreased inflammation and promoted the healing of muscles and joints. 660 nm and 850 nm wavelengths were shown to promote hair development, indicating potential for the treatment of androgenic alopecia (hair loss and thinning). • Consistent near-infrared exposure at 830 nm improved chronic pain problems including arthritis. ConclusionNumerous therapeutic uses exist for red light therapy, which provides a secure and efficient way to treat pain, inflammation, and anti-aging. High-quality devices are necessary since the efficacy is dependent on irradiance and appropriate wavelength selection [3]. How This Relates to Red Light Therapy at Tanning Salons In many cases, salon-based red light treatment beds don't have the power output or wavelength adjustment to provide the same therapeutic depth as professional-grade panels. Devices like the Total Spectrum MAX and ULTRA are better for focused skin and muscle healing treatments since they have more adjustable settings, greater irradiance, and a wider spectrum of wavelengths. Key Takeaways from Clinical Research • When applied regularly, 630 nm red light treatment dramatically improves skin texture, minimizes wrinkles, and increases collagen synthesis. • Especially in low-light seasons, 850 nm near-infrared treatment promotes mood, attentiveness, and general well-being. • Near-infrared light (810–850 nm) helps control chronic pain, decreases inflammation, and accelerates muscle recovery. • Red light treatment works best when administered at wavelengths that have been scientifically shown to have enough irradiance; dose and power output are important factors. • Compared to powerful at-home panels that provide tailored treatments and focused therapy, salon red light therapy beds could not provide as many advantages. Why At-Home Red Light Therapy Devices Provide Superior Results Despite promoting red light therapy for skin and health advantages, tanning salons often fall short of at-home panels in terms of power, customisation, and efficacy. Higher irradiance, adjustable settings, and deeper penetration are features that make red light therapy panel devices like the Total Spectrum ULTRA and ELITE a superior long-term investment. At-home panels, which have one-time ownership expenses, provide endless treatments for pain alleviation, skin health, and general well-being, doing away with the need for regular salon visits. Before and After: What Results Can You Expect? How Long Before You See Noticeable Skin and Muscle Improvements? Although outcomes vary based on personal characteristics and consistency, the majority of users see advantages in: ✔ 1-2 weeks for muscle rehabilitation and decreased inflammation ✔ 4-6 weeks for collagen synthesis and skin rejuvenation ✔ 3+ months for long-term anti-aging and more profound pain relief The secret sauce here is consistency. Compared to intermittent salon visits, at-home red light therapy offers uninterrupted daily treatments, speeding up results. The Difference Between Occasional Salon Visits and Consistent At-Home Use Red light treatment at home allows users to: ✅ Use it every day or many times a week ✅ Manage the duration and intensity of sessions ✅ Focus on certain regions for optimal efficacy ❌ Results from salon treatments are dependent upon: • Appointment availability; • Ongoing expenses and scheduling difficulties; • Limited exposure per session Conclusion: Is an At-Home Red Light Therapy Panel the Better Choice? Red light therapy is a proven treatment for skin health, pain relief, and muscle recovery.Red light treatment available in tanning salons are more expensive, produces less power, and offers less versatility. The Smarter Investment: Red Light Therapy at Home ✔ More potent for greater outcomes ✔ Adjustable settings for pain, muscle, and skin ✔ One-time purchase for indefinite treatments Purchasing a Total Spectrum at-home panel instead of shelling out hundreds at a salon guarantees: 💡 Quicker, more durable results 💡 Flexibility and convenience 💡 A professional-grade, reasonably priced solution An at-home red light treatment panel is the greatest option for anyone seeking the best outcomes, value, and long-term savings. FAQs: Answering Common Questions Is red light therapy at a tanning salon safe? Yes, red light therapy is safe, but salon treatments may vary in quality, and some combine UV exposure, which increases risks. Should you use red light therapy before or after tanning? Using red light therapy before tanning may enhance circulation for a more even tan, but it does not prevent UV damage. Does the red light therapy at Planet Fitness tan you? No, red light therapy does not contain UV rays and does not tan the skin. What do the red lights on sunbeds do? Red lights in tanning beds aim to support skin health but do not prevent UV-related skin aging or damage. References: 1. Couturaud V, Le Fur M, Pelletier M, Granotier F. Reverse skin aging signs by red light photobiomodulation. Skin Research and Technology. Published June 30, 2023. https://doi.org/10.1111/srt.13391 2. Giménez MC, Luxwolda M, Van Stipriaan EG, Bollen PP, Hoekman RL, Koopmans MA, Arany PR, Krames MR, Berends AC, Hut RA, Gordijn MCM. Effects of Near-Infrared Light on Well-Being and Health in Human Subjects with Mild Sleep-Related Complaints: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study. Published 2023. Chrono@Work, University of Groningen. https://doi.org/10.1111/srt.13391 3. Glass GE. Photobiomodulation: The Clinical Applications of Low-Level Light Therapy. Aesthetic Surgery Journal. Published January 2021. PMID: 33471046. DOI: 10.1093/asj/sjab025
