Up to 80 percent of individuals under age 25 believe a tan makes them look more attractive, according to the Teens Health website. That bronzed skin comes at a price, however, because the sun's UVA and UVB rays damage the body in several ways. Spray tans offer a similar look without the safety risks.
Definition
A spray tan is an artificial way to darken the skin. A natural tan happens when the sun's UVA rays trigger production of melanin in the lower epidermis layer,. This substance is a brown pigment so it makes the skin appear darker. Spray tans come from a substance called dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which stains the skin the desired shade. Spray tans are typically safer, according to Teens Health, because DHA is harmless and the skin is not exposed to sunshine to achieve the desired effect.
Types
Spray tans come in two main types, both are which use DHA. The first type is do-it-yourself tanning spray, which can be purchased in most variety stores and pharmacies. A person simply applies it to the skin until the desired tone is achieved. The second type is a professionally applied spray tan. A technician sprays it on with an airbrush at a salon. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) states that DHA is safe for external use, but cautions against getting it in the eyes, lips or around the mucous membranes. Either application method is safe if precautions are used to keep the spray out of those places.
Time Frame
Professional spray tans only take about a minute, while it takes longer to self-apply a product. Spray tans typically last for several days to a week. They safely fade away as skin cells die off naturally and are shed by the body. Vigorous scrubbing makes them fade more quickly because it helps the skin cells slough off.
Considerations
Teens Health recommends exfoliation before getting a spray tan to help it stay for the longest possible time. A good scrub with a loofah or brush removes old skin cells, leaving fresh skin for the DHA application. The new cells last longer before they are shed.
Benefits
DHA tans are much safer than baking in the sun, according to Teens Health, because the rays that make natural tans can impair the immune system. Natural tans also raise the risk of several types of skin cancer. Both UVA and UVB rays can lead to melanoma. UVB rays are also linked to basal and squamous cell carcinoma.
Warning
While spray tans are typically safe, the FDA warns that most do not protect skin from the sun's UVA or UVB rays. Some self-applied tanners feature sun screen products, which are noted on the label. Otherwise, those with artificial tans need to wear sun screen while outdoors so they do not burn or suffer other harmful effects such as increased cancer risk.
