It is well known that the use of UV tanning beds does more harm than good. Studies have shown that the UV rays emitted in a tanning bed are three times the intensity of the sun alone. UV rays are a carcinogen, just like tobacco and equally harmful. Users of tanning beds should be concerned about skin and eye cancer, premature aging, and diseases such as Staph, and STD's in a tanning bed. Most users spend far more on correcting the effects of UV rays than they do to obtain that sought after, golden tan.

Spray tan machines are the hottest method for self-tanning on the market today. The only concern is inhalation of fumes, and with the new technology even that is of little concern. Furthermore, spray tan machine cost pays for itself in a short amount of time. A single spray tan session costs around $30, and clients are encouraged to spray tan at least twice a week. That makes a month profit on just one client around $240. Today's spray tan booths come in a variety of styles and prices. The prices are dependent upon the make, model, year, and features of the booth. Spray tan booths can also be purchased used.

The top manufacturers of spray tan booths are Mystic Tan, and Magic Tan. Other popular brands are Summer Image, Heartland Sun Spritz, ProSun Omega Pro, Hollywood Tans, and Cal Tan Autobronzer. The price of spray tan booth varies; they can be purchased brand new for anywhere between $15,000 and $20,000 USD. Used booths can be found from $4,000 to $15,000 USD. Again, it is dependent upon the type and features of the booth being considered.

Mystic Tan

Mystic Tan booths are notably the most well-known brand of spray tanning booth. They feature a series of models, the Mystic Tan MyMyst, the Mystic Tan Innovation, and the Mystic Tan Original. All Mystic Tan booths mimic an airbrush motion for even coverage. The mist has no odor, there are different color intensity levels available, and they even offer a clear mist that goes on clear and dries dark. The MyMyst also has a heating and drying system, which is very sought after in the industry today. The heat and dry option is a plus because the tanning spray is cold, and can be shocking when applied. The heating and drying option is much more pleasurable for the user, and there are no messy towels for the owner to clean up.

Magic Tan

Magic Tan carries the MT3000, MT3500, and their newest is the VersaSpa. The VersaSpa booth features a super fine mist, ventilation, and no door with an open design. This allows the user to avoid that claustrophobic feeling. Their new HD models offer heating and drying, just like the Mystic Tan MyMyst. The unit can also apply anti-aging mist, and other skin treatments in addition to the tanning mist. VersaSpa seems to be the new favorite when it comes to user reviews.

Summer Image and Cal Tan Autobronzer

Summer Image and Cal Tan Autobronzer are older models but still quite popular. The Summer Image booth is made of stainless steel. It has 36 nozzles and sprays 360 degrees ensuring 100% coverage. The Cal Tan Autobronzer is an open air unit. It offers three levels of tanning, is voice instructed, and also has a built in dryer. A benefit of an open air system is that it requires less clean up, because the nozzles are self-cleaning. Something to keep in mind when purchasing an older unit is that although they can be purchased for as little as $4,000 USD, one should be prepared to spend extra on maintenance for the booth.

Whatever one's budget allows, any type of spray tan booth is much more valuable than a tanning bed. Spray tans are much easier and affordable for users to maintain, and the health benefits are priceless in comparison.