Brandon Selinger from Unlimited Tan in Chicago, Illinois recently called to ask the difference between narrow- band and broadband UVB.
Often, people who come to your salon asking about narrowband versus broadband UVB are interested in phototherapy as a way to self-treat a skin condition. Please note: Indoor tanning industry professionals are not allowed to make any health claims to the public. With that being said, let’s answer Brandon’s question.
First, normal precautions must always be taken with every tanning session, such as eye protection and skin-type exposure schedules, whether your customer is self-treating a skin condition or simply seeking a cosmetic tan.
“Broadband” UVB lamps for phototherapy emit light in a broad range over the UVB spectrum, including both the therapeutic wavelengths specific to the treatment of skin diseases, plus other wavelengths which may not be important to the therapeutic process. “Narrowband” UVB lamps on the other hand, emit light over a very short wavelength range, concentrated in the therapeutic range.
UV wavelengths are measured in nanometers (nm). The UVB band is defined as the range of wavelengths between 280-320nm, and if a UVB lamp emits light at wavelengths across this spectrum, it can be classified as “broadband.” On the other hand, “narrowband” UVB lamps emit light with a small cluster of specific wave- lengths for therapeutic purposes.
A normal low-pressure tanning lamp is considered “broadband” for both UVA and UVB light because it covers the full range of UV needed for tanning. However, it’s important to make clients who are interested in the UVB spectrum aware that a tanning lamp predominantly emits UVA waves, with just enough UVB to stimulate melanin; lots of UVA is necessary to oxidize the melanin and turn it brown. Typically, a higher amount of UVB necessitates a shorter exposure schedule because more reddening occurs. If you use the lamp originally recommended for your equipment or an FDA compatible replacement, then little reddening should occur if you follow the recommended exposure schedule.
What do you tell your customers who are looking to self-treat a skin condition with phototherapy? Of course, they are welcome to purchase a tanning package and judge for themselves whether or not the UV exposure improves their particular condition; however, as a salon owner, you cannot make any health claims or guarantees to your guests. Also, be sure to inquire as to any medications or topical skin treatments they may be using, as these may cause photosensitivity.
Brandon, thank you for asking an excellent question.
