Successfully Integrate Sunbeds Into Your Salon or Studio

If you want to expand your salon or studio offerings, adding sunbeds can be a great way to attract new customers and increase revenue. However, successfully integrating sunbeds into your business requires careful planning and execution. From selecting the right equipment to training your staff on safe usage and maintenance, there are several factors to consider.

Don't worry! We have some valuable tips to help you navigate the process and ensure a smooth and successful integration. So, whether you own a business or are just starting out, keep reading to learn how to make the most of your sunbed investment.

6 Benefits of Integrating Sunbeds into Your Salon or Studio

In addition to providing a year-round tanning solution, integrating sunbeds into your business can offer a range of other benefits. There are plenty of reasons to consider sunbeds, from increasing revenue to providing a unique service that sets you apart from competitors.

1. Fill Lost Space

Incorporating a sunbed into your salon or studio can help you maximise your available space. Sunbeds come in various sizes and styles, making them a versatile addition. Adding a sunbed can attract new clients and increase revenue, as clients may also choose other services your business offers.

2. Additional Revenue Stream

Offering tanning services can diversify your revenue streams and increase your profits. Sunbed sessions can be priced at a premium, generating additional income for your business. 

For example, say you have an Ultrasun Q14 Magnum Power, it has 40x lamps of 120 Watt sunbed and uses 8,5 kilowatts, so it would cost around £2,82 to run for an hour.

If you charge your customers £2 per 5 minutes, the Q14 will earn you £24 per hour. You can hear the till ringing from here. 

3. Attract New Clients

Integrating sunbeds into your salon or studio can attract new clients looking for tanning options. Promoting your new service through your website or social media channels can reach a wider audience and bring new business. 

4. Convenience for Clients

Sunbeds offer a convenient tanning option for clients who may not have the time or resources to go to the beach or outdoor pool or are stuck in the gloomy British weather. By providing this service in-house, you can offer a convenient solution for your clients' tanning needs.

5. Build Client Loyalty

Integrating a sunbed into your salon or studio can help build client loyalty by providing a convenient, in-demand service that keeps clients returning. By delivering a high-quality tanning experience and offering competitive pricing, you can establish a loyal customer base that regularly returns for additional sessions. 

You can also offer loyalty rewards or discounts for repeat customers, further incentivising them to choose your shop over competitors. Additionally, by providing a variety of tanning products and services, you can appeal to a wide range of clients and encourage them to try different offerings at your salon or studio.

6. Stand Out Against The Rest

Adding a tanning bed sets you apart from competitors and attracts new clients seeking a complete tanning experience. The extra service helps establish your business as a one-stop-shop for tanning, beauty and wellness, appealing to a broader audience and increasing your customer base. 

Moreover, it helps you build a reputation as an industry leader, retaining existing clients and attracting new ones who value quality and experience.

Choose The Right Sunbed for Your Salon

Choosing the right sunbed for your salon can be a daunting task. There are many factors to consider, such as the type of sunbed, whether to rent, lease, or buy and your salon's space limitations. Luckily, we're here to help you decide. 

Types of Sunbeds Available

There are two types of sunbeds available on the market – lay down and stand-up sunbeds.

Lay down Ultrasun Q14 Magnum Power sunbed

Lay down sunbeds are the traditional option where clients lay on a flat bed with overhead lamps. They typically require an average floor space of 2.7 meters by 2.4 meters and a ventilation space of 5.7 cubic meters per minute.

Stand-up Ultrasun i8 sunbed

Stand-up sunbeds are vertical, and clients stand upright while surrounded by UV tubes. They are more space-efficient, requiring an average floor space of 1.8 meters wide by 1.8 meters deep and 2.4 meters high, but require a ventilation space of 8.5 cubic meters per minute to ensure proper airflow.

Both options are popular and offer different advantages. Stand-up sunbeds are more efficient and can accommodate more clients, making them a great option for busy salons. On the other hand, lay down sunbeds offer a more relaxed experience and are great for clients who prefer to lay down and relax while tanning

Renting, Leasing, or Buying

The decision to rent, lease, or buy a sunbed depends on your budget, long-term goals, and current business needs. Each option has its advantages and disadvantages, so weigh all your options before deciding. Here's a breakdown of each option:

• Renting: This is a short-term option that can be ideal if you want to test the waters before committing to a sunbed long-term. You'll typically pay a monthly rental fee, which can be more expensive in the long run. Still, it allows you to try different models and see which works best for your salon.
• Leasing: This is a popular option for businesses that want to keep their capital expenditure low. You'll pay a monthly fee to use the sunbed for a set period, usually around or over three years. In a leasing agreement with Helionova, you'll keep the machine at the end of the term as you are effectively paying for it in instalments. 
• Buying: This option is the most expensive but cost-effective in the long run. If you have the capital to invest upfront, buying a sunbed means owning it outright and not worrying about ongoing rental or lease fees.

Put Safety First: Know What Measures Your Salon Needs to Take

We've covered that sunbeds can help you increase your revenue. Nevertheless, it's helpful to keep safety measures in mind. Sunbeds emit UV radiation, which, used irresponsibly, can harm your client's health. 

Therefore, educating yourself and your staff about sunbed safety to avoid accidents and legal issues would be best. 

Why are Safety Measures Important for Sunbed Services?

Sunbeds are a popular way to get a quick tan, but they are not without risks. Some of the potential dangers of sunbeds include:

• Skin damage: Overexposure to UV radiation can cause many health issues, such as sunburn and premature ageing.
• Eye damage: UV radiation can also harm your clients' eyes, causing cataracts, retinal damage, and other eye problems.
• Burns: Sunbeds can cause burns if they are used incorrectly. The risk of burns increases if your client has sensitive skin or has used certain medications that make their skin more sensitive to UV radiation.
• Legal Issues: As a salon or studio owner, it's your responsibility to ensure that your client's safety is a top priority. Failure to do so could result in legal action, which can be expensive and damage your reputation.

To avoid these risks, it's essential to take safety measures seriously. By following the precautions below, you can create a safe environment for your clients and protect yourself from litigation.

Safety Measures to Keep in Mind

There are several safety measures that you should keep in mind when adding sunbeds to your salon or studio. Here are some essential safety measures to consider:

• Ensure Proper Ventilation

Ensure that your location has proper ventilation to prevent overheating. The ventilation system should be able to handle the volume of air required to remove the heat that the sunbeds emit.

• Keep a Clean Environment

Another important factor is to keep your salon or studio clean to prevent the spread of bacteria and viruses. Clean the sunbeds thoroughly after each use and provide your clients with clean towels and goggles. 

• Use Protective Equipment

Provide your clients with goggles to minimise the risk of eye damage. The goggles should fit properly and provide adequate protection against UV radiation. 

• Limit Exposure Time

Limit your client's exposure time on the sunbeds to prevent overexposure to UV radiation. Educate your clients about the recommended exposure times based on their skin type and advise them to wait at least 24 hours between tanning sessions.

Staff training for tanning beds

Your staff should understand how to operate the sunbeds, the recommended exposure times and properly clean and maintain the tanning bed. Recognising the signs of overexposure and knowing how to respond to emergencies is also essential.

• Teach the Importance of Hygiene

Teach your staff the importance of maintaining hygiene in your salon. They should know how to clean the sunbeds thoroughly after each use and provide your clients with clean towels and goggles.

• Use Visual Aids

Use visual aids such as posters and brochures to educate your staff on sunbed safety measures. This will help them remember the information better and provide your clients with accurate information. You can always contact Helionova to help you with marketing and promotion items.  

• Offer Ongoing (Online) Training

Offer (online) training to your staff to ensure they can access the latest information on sunbed safety measures. Ongoing training helps them stay updated with the latest safety regulations and best practices.

• Encourage Communication

Encourage communication between your staff and your clients. Your team should be able to answer any questions your clients may have and provide accurate information on sunbed safety measures. You can check out Ultrasun's FAQ section for all your burning questions! No pun intended. 

H3: Partnering up With a Knowledgeable Party

Partnering with a knowledgeable party, such as a reputable manufacturer or supplier, can help you with safety measures and staff training. 

Helionova can help you ensure maximum safety when adding sunbeds to your salon or studio. They can advise you on how to use the equipment safely, recommend the best products for your salon, and keep you updated with new safety regulations. 

Moreover, the UK's Sunbed Association (TSA) provides a range of services to its members, including training and education for salon owners and staff, support for salon owners in managing their businesses, and promotion of the responsible use of sunbeds. 

Make Sure Your Sunbeds Are Maintained Regularly

Sunbed maintenance and sanitation protocols are essential for ensuring the best possible experience for your customers. This includes regular cleaning and disinfection of all surfaces, particularly those that come into contact with skin. By keeping your sunbeds clean and hygienic, you can help to prevent the spread of harmful bacteria and other microorganisms, reducing the risk of infection and illness among your customers. Here are some top tips for maintaining your sunbeds:

Tip 1: Clean and Disinfect Your Sunbeds Regularly

To keep your sunbeds in top condition, clean and disinfect them regularly. You can wipe down all surfaces with a suitable disinfectant, paying particular attention to the areas that come into contact with the skin. And always remember to follow the manufacturer's instructions for use.

Tip 2: Check and Replace UV Lamps Regularly

UV lamps are a vital component of any sunbed. Optimal performance depends on regular checkups and replacing them when appropriate. Failing to do so can lead to longer tanning times and increased energy consumption – which no one wants. By replacing your UV lamps regularly, your sunbeds are at their optimal capacity.

Tip 3: Schedule Regular Equipment Servicing

Regular equipment servicing is essential for maintaining the performance and safety of your sunbeds. This involves checking and repairing any mechanical or electrical components that may be worn or damaged, as well as cleaning and maintaining the overall condition of the sunbed. By scheduling regular servicing, you can help to prevent breakdowns and extend the life of your sunbeds.

Helionova Services: Keeping Your Sunbeds in Top Condition

At Helionova, we offer a range of services to help you keep your sunbeds in top condition. From deep cleaning and sanitisation to UV lamp replacement and full equipment servicing, our team of experts can help you to maintain the performance and safety of your equipment, ensuring the best possible experience for your customers.

Educate Your Clients on Safe Tanning Practices

Client education is essential to ensure your sunbeds are used safely and effectively. Educating your clients can help them understand the importance of skin type analysis, session limits, and eye protection, all critical factors in achieving a healthy tan. 

When clients are well-informed, they are more likely to use your sunbed services responsibly, which can help to prevent sunburn and other skin damage. Here are some tips on how to educate your clients on sunbed services.

Skin Type Analysis

A skin type analysis is an essential part of any sunbed service. This analysis can help you determine the appropriate session length and intensity for each client's skin type. When you know your client's skin type, they can tan without risking skin damage. To develop an effective skin type analysis process, consider using a questionnaire about skin type, medical history, and medications. Ensure that your staff are well-trained to identify and analyse skin types accurately. The analysis can take place during the client's consultation process. 

Session Limits

Setting session limits is critical to prevent overexposure to UV radiation, which can cause sunburn and other skin damage. Determine session limits based on the client's skin type, the sunbed's intensity, and their desired level of tanning. Communicate session limits to your clients and ensure that they are adhered to. With the Ultrasun sunbeds, you can set the timer, and the machine will switch off when the time runs out. 

Eye Protection

The eyes are susceptible to UV radiation and are at risk of damage when using sunbeds. Providing eye protection, such as goggles or disposable eye stickers, is essential to reduce the risk of eye damage. Ensure that your staff provide eye protection to clients and that they are cleaned or disposed of after each use.

In addition to in-salon tips, consider using your social media channels and website to educate clients about sunbed services. You can use these platforms to share information on skin type analysis, session limits, responsible tanning, and other general tips.

Develop Sanitation Protocols for Your Sunbeds

Sanitation protocols are essential for ensuring the safety and well-being of sunbed clients. Effective sanitation protocols keep clients safe and provide a hygienic and comfortable environment for everyone. Follow these tips to develop effective sanitation protocols for your sunbeds. 

Identify Key Touchpoints

Identify the key touchpoints on the sunbed, such as the surface, handles, and buttons, that need to be cleaned and disinfected between clients.

Choose the Right Cleaning Products

Choose cleaning products that are effective against bacteria and viruses and are safe for use on sunbeds. Avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage the equipment.

Train Staff on Proper Sanitation Procedures

Train staff on the proper sanitation procedures, including how to use cleaning products and how often to clean the sunbeds.

Establish a Cleaning Schedule

Establish a regular cleaning schedule that ensures sunbeds are cleaned and disinfected between each client.

By implementing these tips, you will have an effective sanitation protocol for your sunbed in at the tips of your fingers. Plus, it's also nice to get a tan without worrying about germs. 

Marketing and Promotion for Your Tanning Services

Rollup banner Ultrasun Q18 Magnum Poower

As a business owner in the tanning industry, effective marketing and promotion will help you stand out above the rest. Here are some tips on how to reach new clients and retain existing ones.

Pricing Strategies

Setting pricing strategies for tanning services is crucial for maximising profitability. It would be best to balance between being competitive and maintaining your profit margins. Consider offering package deals and discounts to incentivise clients to purchase more sessions upfront. Promote your new prices across your website and social media channels to attract new clients.

Appointment Scheduling

Streamlining appointment scheduling for tanning services is another way to attract and retain clients. Invest in appointment scheduling software to make the process easy and convenient for clients and staff. Offer online booking options and consider sending appointment reminders via email or text to reduce no-shows. Overall, it must have a record keeping feature to build a client-retention strategy properly. 

Get Expert Sunbed Advice for Your Salon Now!

Integrating a sunbed into your salon or studio is a smart business move. But it's important to approach it with care and attention to detail. By following the tips we've provided, you can select the right equipment, train your staff effectively, and provide a safe and enjoyable experience for your clients. 

With proper planning and execution, sunbeds can be a valuable addition to your business, attracting new customers and increasing your revenue. So why wait? Start implementing these tips today and watch your business thrive!

FAQs About Integrating Sunbeds into Your Salon or Studio

Are sunbeds a good investment for beauty salons?

Sunbeds can be a good investment for beauty salons, as they offer an additional service to clients and can increase revenue. 

Can I add a sunbed to my beauty salon?

Yes, you can add a sunbed to your beauty salon if you have the space and resources. But before that, do your research and understand the legal regulations related to sunbed services in your area. You may need to obtain permits or licenses and have the proper insurance coverage in place.

How can I integrate a sunbed into my studio?

Integrating a sunbed into your studio requires careful planning and consideration. You'll need to ensure that you have enough space to accommodate the equipment and that it's placed in a safe and accessible location. 

You'll also need to develop and implement proper sanitation protocols and train staff on how to use and maintain the equipment properly. Additionally, you'll need to determine the pricing and scheduling strategies for the tanning services and promote them effectively to attract clients.