What are “hotter” lamps?
What is commonly called a “hotter” lamp is one that has more UVB and less UVA. These lamps are quite popular, but not the best combination for all tanners. Most 20 minute tanning beds come standard with lamps that are between 4.2% and 5% UVB. A lamp with 5.5% or higher UVB would be considered to be a “hotter” lamp. 6.5% to 7.5% are typical, with UVB ratings as high as 8.5% to 9.5% also available. These hotter lamps can help stimulate the development of melanin in your skin, but are more likely to cause sunburn in your tanning bed. Remember, the “hotter” the lamp is, the lower the UVA. This means you will hit a tanning peak sooner.
