What Sun Tan City is and how it operates
Sun Tan City is a chain of tanning salons with locations across the United States. The company operates tanning beds and booths where customers pay for UV exposure sessions. Unlike some salons that operate on a walk-in basis, Sun Tan City uses a membership model — you buy a package of tanning sessions or a monthly membership, then use those credits at any of their locations.
The company has been in operation since the 1990s and operates franchised locations in multiple states. Each location is independently owned and operated, which means pricing, hours, equipment quality, and membership terms can vary between salons even within the same state. Before signing up, you should contact your specific local salon to confirm their current rates and what membership options they offer.
Sun Tan City salons typically offer different bed types — standard beds, high-pressure beds, and stand-up booths — each with different session lengths and pricing. The salon staff can explain which equipment is in their location and what each type costs per session.
Key Takeaways
- Sun Tan City operates as a membership-based tanning salon chain where you purchase sessions or monthly plans rather than paying per visit.
- Each location is independently franchised, so prices, equipment, and membership terms differ between salons and change over time.
- Different bed types (standard, high-pressure, stand-up booths) cost different amounts and have different session lengths.
- You should contact your local Sun Tan City directly to learn current pricing and membership options rather than relying on information from other locations.
How membership packages work
Sun Tan City memberships typically fall into two categories: prepaid session packages and monthly unlimited plans. With a session package, you pay upfront for a set number of tanning sessions — for example, 10 sessions or 20 sessions — and use them at your own pace. With a monthly unlimited plan, you pay a monthly fee and can tan as many times as you want during that month, though most salons cap how many sessions you can do per day.
Membership terms and pricing vary by location and change periodically. Some locations offer introductory rates for new members, while others run promotions during certain seasons. The best way to learn what your local salon offers is to call them directly or visit in person — staff can explain the current options and any active promotions.
Most memberships are non-transferable, meaning you cannot give your sessions to someone else or use them at a different salon chain. Some locations allow you to pause a monthly membership for a set period if you need to stop tanning temporarily, but policies differ.
What happens during a tanning session
When you arrive for a session, you check in at the front desk and are directed to your assigned bed or booth. Sessions typically last between 10 and 20 minutes depending on the equipment type and your skin type. The salon staff will explain how to use the equipment, including how to start the timer and how to exit when your session ends.
You undress in a private room or booth, lie on or stand in the tanning bed, and the UV lamps turn on automatically. Most beds have a timer that shuts off automatically when your session time is up. You then dress and leave. The entire process, including check-in and changing, usually takes 20 to 30 minutes.
Salons typically require you to wear protective eyewear during sessions. Some provide disposable goggles; others ask you to bring your own or sell them. You should ask your salon what eye protection they provide.
Health and safety information about UV tanning
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classifies UV tanning beds as Class II medical devices and requires warning labels on all equipment. The FDA states that UV exposure from tanning beds increases the risk of skin cancer, including melanoma, and can cause eye damage. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends against indoor tanning for cosmetic purposes and notes that tanning beds are not a safe way to produce vitamin D.
People with certain skin conditions, a personal or family history of skin cancer, or who take medications that increase sun sensitivity should not use tanning beds. Pregnant women are often advised to avoid tanning beds, though the evidence is limited. If you have any health concerns, you should speak with a doctor before using a tanning bed.
Tanning beds require regular maintenance and cleaning to prevent the spread of bacteria and fungi. Reputable salons clean beds between each use and maintain equipment according to manufacturer guidelines. You can ask your local salon about their cleaning and maintenance procedures.
Costs and what to expect to pay
Pricing at Sun Tan City varies significantly by location, equipment type, and membership structure. A single session at a standard bed might range from $5 to $15 depending on your location and whether you have a membership. Monthly unlimited memberships typically range from $30 to $100 per month, though this varies widely. High-pressure beds and stand-up booths usually cost more per session than standard beds.
New member promotions are common and often offer discounted first sessions or reduced rates on initial packages. Some locations offer discounts if you pay for multiple sessions upfront rather than monthly. Prices also tend to be lower during off-season months (fall and winter in many regions) and higher during summer.
Because pricing changes and varies by location, you should contact your specific local salon for their current rates rather than assuming prices from another location or from information you find online.
Cancellation and refund policies
Refund and cancellation policies for Sun Tan City memberships vary by location because each salon is independently franchised. Some locations allow you to cancel a monthly membership with notice (often 24 to 30 days), while others may have different terms. Session packages are typically non-refundable once purchased, though some locations may allow you to transfer unused sessions to a new membership if you cancel.
You should ask about the cancellation policy before you buy a membership. Request the policy in writing if possible, so you have a record of what you agreed to. If you want to cancel, contact your salon directly — do not assume you can cancel online or through a phone number that is not affiliated with your specific location.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my Sun Tan City membership at any location?
Most Sun Tan City memberships are valid at any franchised location, but this varies by salon and membership type. Some introductory or promotional memberships may be limited to one location. Ask your salon whether your specific membership can be used at other Sun Tan City locations before you sign up.
What should I bring to my first tanning session?
Bring your membership card or account information so the staff can check you in. Ask whether the salon provides eye protection or whether you need to bring your own. Wear comfortable clothes that are straightforward to change out of. You do not need to bring anything else — the salon provides the tanning bed and handles the rest.
How often can I tan without damaging my skin?
The FDA and dermatologists do not recommend indoor tanning for cosmetic purposes at any frequency. If you choose to tan indoors, most salons recommend waiting at least 24 to 48 hours between sessions to allow your skin to recover. You should speak with a dermatologist about what frequency, if any, is safe for your individual skin type.
What is the difference between standard beds and high-pressure beds?
High-pressure beds use more intense UV lamps and typically require shorter session times than standard beds — often 10 to 15 minutes instead of 15 to 20 minutes. High-pressure beds cost more per session but may produce a faster tan. Standard beds are less intense and less expensive. Your salon staff can explain which option is available at your location and recommend one based on your skin type.
Do I need a doctor's permission to use a tanning bed?
You do not need a doctor's permission to use a tanning bed, but you should speak with a doctor if you have a personal or family history of skin cancer, certain skin conditions, or if you take medications that increase sun sensitivity. Pregnant women are sometimes advised to avoid tanning beds and should check with their doctor.