Red Light Therapy vs. Tanning Beds: Understanding the Difference (2026)
Published · Updated
Both services use light — but they work in completely different ways, for completely different purposes. Here's what you need to know.
At Tropitana Tanning, we often get questions from clients who are curious about the difference between red light therapy and traditional UV tanning. Both services use light — but they work in completely different ways, for completely different purposes. Understanding the distinction helps you make smarter choices about which service (or combination of services) is right for you in 2026 and beyond.
How Traditional UV Tanning Works
UV tanning beds emit ultraviolet light — specifically UVA and/or UVB rays — that penetrate the outer layers of your skin and stimulate melanin production. Melanin is the pigment responsible for your tan color. As your skin produces more melanin in response to UV exposure, your tan gradually deepens and darkens.
UV tanning is purely about color. It produces a genuine, built-up tan that can last for weeks with proper maintenance.
How Red Light Therapy Works
Red light therapy uses wavelengths of red (typically 630–700nm) and near-infrared light that have no tanning effect whatsoever. These wavelengths don't cause pigmentation changes — instead, they penetrate deeper into the skin and interact with your cells at a mitochondrial level. The result is increased cellular energy production, which fuels your skin's natural regeneration processes.
In plain language: red light therapy helps your body produce more collagen, more elastin, and more of the enzymes that keep your skin looking firm and youthful. It reduces fine lines, improves skin texture and tone, and supports muscle recovery — all without any UV exposure.
Key Differences at a Glance
| UV Tanning | Red Light Therapy | |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Achieve a tan / build color | Skin rejuvenation, recovery, wellness |
| Mechanism | Stimulates melanin production | Increases cellular energy (ATP) |
| UV Exposure | Yes | No |
| Skin Color Change | Yes | No |
| Primary Benefits | Color, vitamin D synthesis | Collagen, elastin, fine lines, recovery |
| Session Frequency | Build-up phase, then maintenance | 3–5x per week for best results |
Interested in trying both? Explore our full services menu to learn more about UV tanning, red light therapy, spray tans, and PEMF wellness therapy.
Can You Do Both?
Absolutely — and many of our clients do. In fact, red light therapy and UV tanning are complementary services. Red light therapy supports skin health and collagen production, which means your skin is in better condition to develop and maintain a tan. Many clients add a red light session to their tanning routine a few days per week, then build it into their long-term wellness practice even when they're not focused on maintaining color.
All Services Available at Tropitana Tanning
No need to visit multiple locations. UV tanning, red light therapy, custom spray tans with 5 shade options, and PEMF therapy are all available at Tropitana Tanning. Walk in anytime — no appointment needed — and our knowledgeable staff can help you create a personalized routine that incorporates the right services for your goals.
Visit us at either of our Lake Country locations in Delafield and Hartland | Contact us | Open 7 days a week