Spray tans are generally considered safe, but there are some things to keep in mind. The active ingredient in spray tans and other sunless tanning products is dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which reacts with the proteins found in the cells that make up the outer layer of your skin, creating an adherent pigment that leads to the bronze/tan color. Here are some key points to consider:
Positive:
-
Spray tans dont involve harmful UV exposure, making them a safer alternative to tanning beds or sunbathing.
-
The active ingredient in spray tans, DHA, has been approved by the FDA for external use, so rubbing self-tanner lotion, cream, or foam onto your body is currently considered safe.
Negative:
-
When using DHA-containing products as an all-over spray or mist in a commercial spray ‘tanning’ booth, it may be difficult to avoid exposure in a manner for which DHA is not approved, including the area of the eyes, lips, or mucous membrane, or even internally. The FDA recommends asking the following questions before getting a spray tan: Will my eyes and the entire area around my eyes be protected from the spray? Will my lips and any other parts of my body covered by mucous membranes be protected from the spray? Will I be protected from getting the spray in my mouth or lungs? If the answer to any of these questions is “no,” you should ask for those protections before going forward with your spray tan.
-
Spray tanning products may contain fragrances that can be irritating if you have sensitive skin or certain allergies.
-
Some self-tanning products contain harsh ingredients, cheap chemicals, and allergens that can irritate the skin.
Ingredients or materials:
-
At-home tanning products generally contain DHA at levels between 3-5%, which are deemed to be non-toxic and non-carcinogenic.
-
Most sunless tanning products dont contain sunscreen. If a product contains sunscreen, it will only be effective for a couple of hours.
In conclusion, spray tans are generally considered safe, but its important to take precautions to avoid exposure in areas for which DHA is not approved. Its also important to be aware of any fragrances or harsh ingredients in self-tanning products that could irritate the skin.
