What Is Hybrid Tanning? UV + Red Light Beds vs. UV-Only, Explained
Category: Tanning & Wellness · Reading time: 7 minutes · Published September 24, 2026
If you’re searching for hybrid tanning, you’re likely looking for more than a traditional tanning session. You want rich color, modern equipment, and a wellness-focused experience built around your routine.
Hybrid tanning combines UV tanning light and red light technology in one bed or session. At BodyBing Tanning, our hybrid tanning beds and hybrid sunbeds give you more ways to customize your glow at both Metro Detroit locations.
Here’s how hybrid tanning compares with UV-only tanning beds, and what to know before your next visit.
What Is Hybrid Tanning?
Hybrid tanning is a combination of:
UV light for developing a tan
Red light LEDs for a light-based skincare and wellness experience
Modern bed features designed for comfort and convenience
The UV portion is what creates your bronze color. Red light does not tan the skin. It uses non-UV visible light wavelengths and is commonly associated with supporting the appearance of healthy skin and a refreshed look.
In simple terms:
UV creates the glow. Red light complements the experience.
Some hybrid tanning beds use UV lamps and red light LEDs at the same time. Others offer different settings or light zones within the same unit. The exact experience depends on the equipment.
At BodyBing, our Alpha Hybrid 8000 combines PureSunlight, SmartSunlight, and Beauty Booster HyperRed LEDs. Our KBL P9 also features high-performance tanning technology with Beauty Booster HyperRed LEDs, ExtraSun lamps, and Aqua Cool misting.
How Do Hybrid Tanning Beds Work?
A hybrid tanning bed brings two different light experiences together.
1. UV Light Develops Your Tan
UVA and UVB light are the components responsible for tanning. They stimulate melanin activity in the skin, which creates a darker appearance over time.
Your tan still comes from UV exposure, even when you use a hybrid sunbed.
2. Red Light Adds a Wellness-Focused Element
Red light is different from UV light. It does not produce a tan, and it does not replace a dedicated red light therapy session.
BodyBing also offers a separate LED red light therapy experience using a PhotoTech system with 8,000 LEDs in the 631nm to 660nm range. These comfortable, no-heat sessions are designed specifically around red light rather than UV tanning.
3. Comfort Features Complete the Session
Many modern hybrid tanning beds are designed to feel more elevated than older equipment. Depending on the bed, features may include:
Cooling mist
High-performance lamps
LED light zones
Adjustable settings
Short maximum session times
Sleek, comfortable interiors
The result is a streamlined experience. Choose your bed. Follow the recommended session time. Leave feeling refreshed and glowing.
Hybrid Tanning vs. UV-Only Tanning
Both options use UV light to create a tan. The main difference is the additional red light technology found in a hybrid bed.
Feature | Hybrid Tanning Bed | UV-Only Tanning Bed |
UV tanning light | Yes | Yes |
Red light LEDs | Yes | No |
Creates a tan | Yes, through UV | Yes, through UV |
Red light experience | Included in the bed or session | Not included |
Cooling and comfort features | May be available | Depends on the equipment |
Best for | Clients who want tanning plus a modern light experience | Clients focused only on UV tanning |
The choice is simple.
UV-only. Focused tanning.
Hybrid. Tanning plus red light technology.
Is Red Light Tanning the Same as Red Light Therapy?
Not always.
“Red light therapy” and “hybrid red light tanning” are often used to describe tanning beds that combine UV lamps with red light LEDs. That is different from a dedicated red light therapy bed, which uses red and near-infrared light without UV.
Here’s the difference:
Hybrid tanning: UV tanning plus red light LEDs
UV-only tanning: UV tanning without red light LEDs
Dedicated red light therapy: Red light without UV tanning
Red light alone does not create a bronze tan. If your goal is to build color, you need a UV tanning service or sunless tanning service. If your goal is a non-UV light experience, choose dedicated LED red light therapy.
At BodyBing, you can choose based on how you want to feel that day. Tan. Refresh. Relax. Recharge.
Does Red Light Make UV Tanning Safer?
No. This distinction matters.
Red light does not cancel out the effects of UV exposure. A hybrid tanning bed still uses UV light, and the standard risks associated with indoor UV tanning still apply.
Always follow the recommended session time, wear approved protective eyewear, and speak with the BodyBing team about the right option for your skin and goals.
Hybrid tanning is an upgraded experience, not a risk-free version of UV tanning.
That clarity helps you make a confident choice.
Who May Prefer Hybrid Tanning?
Hybrid tanning can be a strong fit if you:
Want a richer-looking bronze glow
Enjoy modern, high-performance equipment
Like having red light technology included in your tanning experience
Want a quick session before work, the gym, or an event
Prefer a more elevated alternative to older UV-only beds
Want more flexibility in how you use your membership
It can also be a convenient option for clients who want to combine tanning with other BodyBing services.
For example:
Hybrid tanning for your bronze glow
Dedicated red light therapy for a non-UV session
Spray tanning for a sunless finish
The Cocoon Wellness Pod for warmth, massage, and relaxation
Your routine can change from visit to visit. Your membership can keep up.
Hybrid Tanning in Troy, MI
Searching for hybrid tanning Troy MI clients can fit into a busy schedule? Visit BodyBing Tanning at 1073 E Long Lake Rd, Troy, MI 48085.
The Troy salon offers:
Hybrid tanning
Premium UV tanning
Pura Sunless spray tanning
LED red light therapy
The Cocoon Wellness Pod
Walk-ins are welcome. Your first service is free for eligible new local guests age 18 and over with photo ID.
Hybrid Tanning in Shelby Township, MI
For clients searching for hybrid tanning Shelby Township MI, BodyBing is located at 50961 Hayes Rd, Shelby Township, MI 48315.
The Shelby Township salon features the same all-in-one approach:
Hybrid tanning beds
Sunless spray tanning
Airbrush tanning
LED red light therapy
Cocoon Wellness Pod sessions
It’s convenient for guests from Shelby Township, Macomb Township, Clinton Township, Utica, Sterling Heights, and nearby communities.
Walk in when it works for you. Build a routine when you’re ready.
One Membership. Every Glow Option.
BodyBing keeps the experience simple with a truly all-inclusive membership for $69.95 per month.
No confusing levels. No unnecessary barriers.
Your membership includes access to:
UV and hybrid tanning
Spray tanning
LED red light therapy
The Cocoon Wellness Pod
Multiple services in one day
25% off tanning and skincare products
That means you can choose the service that fits your mood, schedule, and goals.
Tan before a vacation. Refresh with red light after a workout. Relax in the Cocoon after a long week. Switch it up whenever you want.
One plan. More choice. Your glow, your way.
The Bottom Line
Hybrid tanning means UV tanning plus red light technology in one bed or session.
Compared with a UV-only tanning bed, hybrid tanning adds a modern red light component and may include upgraded comfort features. The tan still comes from UV light. Red light does not tan the skin or remove the risks of UV exposure.
At BodyBing, you can explore hybrid tanning beds, dedicated red light therapy, spray tanning, and wellness services under one simple membership.
Start with your free first visit. Walk in. Choose your experience. Leave glowing.
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