If you’re thinking about booking your first tanning session, one of the first things that you’ll probably think about is: how much will it cost? The price can vary based on where you go, how long you lie in bed, and whether you’re using any add-ons or not.
Here in this guide, we will break down the typical cost of a sunbed session, what determines the cost and how you can get the most out of your money spent.
What Determines the Cost of a Tanning Bed Session?
Costs of tanning sessions aren’t one-size-fits-all, and for a very good reason. The cost of a session is not purely based on how long you stay in the bed. Look at the following key factors which influence the cost.
1. Location
Where the salon is situated adds a lot to the price. Tanning salons in city centres or high streets typically have higher overheads, varying from rent and utilities to employees, and that therefore ends up finding its way into determining the session cost per minute.
Businesses located in small towns or residential areas typically have lower running costs and so they are in a position to pass these savings to customers through reasonable pricing.
That being said, being more expensive does not necessarily mean being better, but location may sometimes be an indicator of convenience, longer opening hours, or amenities like in-store retail or refreshment facilities.
2. Type of Sunbed
All sunbeds have different features, which make them appealing for various reasons. Standard lay-down sunbeds (also called low-pressure beds) are usually the most affordable and are best suited for beginners or those who want a more relaxing experience.
Stand-up sunbeds tend to be more per minute because they’re higher-powered, offer greater even coverage and are favoured by experienced tanners who want faster results.
Then there’s high-performance or hybrid, which combines UV light with red light therapy or collagen-stimulating elements. The high-end beds offer extra comfort and benefits to the skin and will usually cost a bit extra to compensate for these features.
3. Session Length
Most tanning salons charge per minute and you’ll usually have the flexibility to choose your session length from a quick 3-minute boost to a full 12-15 minute session, depending on the bed.
Your skin type, tanning frequency and what you are trying to accomplish will all have an impact on how long your session will be. Longer sessions are more expensive, but certain beds (specifically high-performance beds) will provide the same results with less time.
4. Extras & Upgrades
Most modern sunbeds come with add-ons to make your experience that more enjoyable.
- Cooling fans or built-in air conditioning
- Aromatherapy options
- Voice directions or music selection
- Facial tanners that are adjustable
- Red light or collagen lamps for skin improvement
These upgrades will add comfort, optimise outcomes and make your experience more personable, but typically, you will be charged a small additional fee.
5. Equipment Quality & Hygiene Standards
Modern equipment not only looks better, but performs more efficiently. Professional salons invest money in regular servicing of their beds, changing bulbs and maintaining very high standards of hygiene. Perhaps the prices are slightly higher, but the pay-off is better results, more effective sessions and assurance that you’re in a clean environment.
Low costs are attractive, but un-maintained beds or old equipment can lead to inconsistent results.
Average Sunbed Session Prices in the UK
While prices vary across the country, here’s a general idea of what you can expect:
| Session Type | Estimated Cost per Minute | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Lay-Down Bed | £0.90 to £1.10 | Beginners or those who prefer a relaxing session. |
| High-Performance Stand Up Bed | £1.10 to £1.60 | Even coverage and faster tanning sessions. |
| Red Light or Collagen Beds | £1.20 to £2.00 | Skin rejuvenation and anti-ageing benefits. |
| Packages (Bulk Minutes) | £0.50 to £0.90 | Regular tanners looking to save money long-term. |
Some places also offer flat rates for specific session times (e.g. £10 for 10 minutes), but most use a flexible per-minute system, especially those with digital booking or apps.
How to Save Money on Tanning Bed Sessions
Tanning doesn’t have to be expensive and if you plan ahead, it’s easy to cut your cost per session.
Buy Bulk Minutes
One of the simplest ways to save. Many brands offer discounted rates when you buy 30, 60, or even 180 minutes upfront. The more you buy, the lower it is per minute.
Use Accelerators
Tanning lotions and accelerators can help you build a tan faster, which means fewer minutes needed in the long run. Look for industry-approved products, like the ones we stock across our locations that provide hydration and help you get the best results.
Stick to a Routine
If you’re tanning for a holiday or event, having a consistent plan (e.g. twice per week) makes it easier to maximise value from your package.
Compare Bed Types
Faster or more powerful beds may cost more per minute, but they can also give you quicker results, sometimes meaning fewer sessions overall.
Why The SunShine Co. Offers Great Value
Our flexible per-minute pricing means you only pay for what you actually use, so no subscriptions and no hidden fees. We invest in advanced equipment, keep our locations spotless and offer expert support from trained staff at every location. Whether you’re a first-time tanner or a glowing regular, we make sure your experience is comfortable.
If you’re thinking about starting your tanning routine, you can find your nearest salon online and browse our package options to see what suits you best. And to make sure you never miss out on seasonal promotions or flash deals, it’s worth signing up to our email newsletter, you might be able to save even more if we have a sale running.
