The Health Impacts of Spray Tans and Self-Tanners

The Safety of Spray Tans and Other Forms of Self-Tanning

With summer right around the corner, many people are thinking about getting that sun-kissed glow without exposing their skin to harmful UV rays. This has led to an explosion in popularity of self-tanning products like spray tans. But are these methods of faking a tan safe? Let's take a closer look at the health implications of different self-tanners.

How Spray Tans Work

Spray tanning, or sunless tanning, works by applying a mist evenly across the skin. The main active ingredient in spray tans is dihydroxyacetone (DHA). When DHA interacts with dead skin cells on the epidermis, a color change reaction occurs producing a tan hue. Spray tan results typically last between 5 and 10 days before fading.

Most health experts agree that DHA is safe to use topically. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved DHA for external use for decades. The main safety concern with DHA comes from inhalation. Spray tanning should always be performed in a well-ventilated area to allow the mist to fully dissipate and prevent breathing in vapors.

Potential Spray Tan Health Risks

While DHA itself has a long track record of safety, other ingredients commonly found in spray tans may be problematic for some people:

• Fragrances - Spray tans often contain added synthetic fragrances which can cause allergic reactions or aggravate asthma.
• Alcohols - Ethanol and isopropyl alcohol are used in some spray tan solutions and can dry out the skin.
• Parabens - Parabens are preservatives that have weakly estrogenic effects and may disrupt hormones.

To avoid unpleasant reactions, always read the complete ingredient list and perform a patch test before use. People with sensitivities may want to look for allergen-free, fragrance-free formulas.

Other Potential Issues with Spray Tans

In addition to the ingredients themselves, other factors related to spray tanning carry health risks:

• Inhalation - Breathing in DHA vapors can irritate lungs and trigger asthma attacks.
• Infections - Shared spray tan equipment can harbor bacteria and viruses.
• Contamination - Nitrosamines, a carcinogen, have been detected in some spray tanning solutions.
• Eye exposure - Getting spray tan solution in eyes can cause irritation and stinging.

Proper usage techniques, like wearing nose filters, eye shields, and shower caps, can help mitigate these risks. Overall exposure can be reduced by opting for spray tan artists who use the latest disposable nozzles and one-time-use barriers.

Self-Tanning Lotions and Gels

Self-tanners available as lotions, creams, gels, and moisturizers provide an alternative to spray options. Like spray solutions, these products also rely on DHA as the active tanning ingredient. While inhaling DHA is not a concern with these formats, they can still pose some health risks:

• Skin irritation - Self-tanners may create rashes, dryness, and reactions.
• Eye irritation - Accidental eye exposure can occur when applying.
• Stained palms - Applied self-tanners can stain hands an orange hue.
• Hair discoloration - Self-tanners can turn blonde hair orange if applied to the scalp.

Testing a small amount first on a patch of skin and washing hands thoroughly after application can help avoid many of these pitfalls.

Are Self-Tanners Safe During Pregnancy?

Many pregnant women wonder if self-tanners are safe to use. Since the active ingredients stay on the surface of the skin and do not enter the bloodstream, most doctors say DHA is fine to use topically during pregnancy.

However, avoiding spray tans is recommended during pregnancy. Inhaling the fine mist could potentially restrict oxygen supply to the fetus. Opting for lotions, creams or gels controls exposure more safely.

The Health Benefits of Self-Tanning

While no tanning method is completely without risks, using self-tanners does provide some health advantages over getting tan from UV exposure:

• Avoids sunburns - Reduces skin cancer risk from sun overexposure.
• Prevents premature aging - Decreases wrinkles, age spots and leathering of skin.
• No exposure to UV damage - Eliminates problems like thickening of skin, cataracts and immune suppression.
• Lessens addiction to tanning - Curbs motivation to tan naturally despite health dangers.

Of course, there is no such thing as a completely safe tan. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends staying pale to minimize UV harm. But for those who choose to bronze their complexion, using self-tanners responsibly offers a healthier alternative to roasting in the sun or in tanning beds.

Choosing the Safest Self-Tanning Options

Not all self-tanners on the market are created equal when it comes to health impacts. Here are some tips for picking the most body-friendly products:

• Select well-known national brands - Small batch products may be less regulated.
• Check for certifications - Look for NPA, ECOCERT, and FDA approval indicators.
• Avoid parabens - Choose paraben-free formulas when possible.
• Read ingredient lists - Steer clear of unfamiliar chemical-sounding names.
• Do allergy tests - Dab on wrists and wait 24-48 hours to check for reactions first.
• Use sparingly - Apply thinner layers and build to desired color gradually.
• Examine scent - Make sure any fragrance used is natural, not synthetic.

It also pays to do some digging into a company's reputation and any controversies around their products. With a bit of research, you can enjoy bronzed skin all summer long safely.

Achieving a Healthy-Looking Summer Glow

A vibrant, radiant complexion is a coveted beauty asset when beach weather rolls around. While basking on the sand unprotected will damage your skin over time, using self-tanning wisely lets you build a believable-looking tan without sacrificing your health.

Remember, moderation is key. Just like with natural tanning from the sun, going overboard with self-tanners can give an unnatural orange cast. Work gradually and focus on lightly accentuating your skin's natural glow.

Your safest bet is to consult a professional spray tan technician or cosmetologist. Their expertise can help you achieve an enviable bronzed goddess look that appears perfectly sun-kissed.

Embrace your body and personality rather than chasing an unrealistic image of beauty. But if a touch of tint helps provide a confidence boost, use self-tanning safely, responsibly and in a way that celebrates your own unique beauty both inside and out.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.