After physicians' warnings of the dangers of sun and ultraviolet ray exposure as a risk factor for skin cancer, many have looked for a healthier alternative to achieve a bronzed glow. One option is a spray tan. While the tan mist does not involve sun exposure, many wonder what risks the mist itself carries when sprayed on the skin.
How It Works
Most tanning solutions contain an active ingredient known as DHA, which stands for dihydroxyacetone. When applied to the skin, this chemical interacts with the dead skin cells on your skin, turning them a bronze color. DHA has been approved for sunless tanning use by several associations, including The Skin Cancer Foundation, American Academy of Dermatology Association, Canadian Dermatology Association and the American Medical Association. It has not been approved by the United States Food & Drug Administration (FDA).
Application
Tan mist solution is applied via one of two delivery methods, which can affect the safety of the tan. The first method is a spray tan booth, which requires a person to step into a tanning booth (which is similar to a large shower). The solution is then sprayed through several hoses as a means to cover the body in tanner. The second method is a direct spray application, which involves a salon employee using an airbrush machine to spray tanner on a person. The latter method often involves less inhalation of fumes than the former does.
Safety Concerns
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the use of DHA when applied topically to the skin. The source of contention for many who worry about DHA's safety is that it has not been approved for inhalation. Therefore, its effects on the eyes, nose and mouth are largely untested. Another concern is that some (but not all) solutions can contain other ingredients, such as lead or arsenic, in trace amounts. Their effects could potentially have harmful effects to those with more vulnerable immune systems, such as pregnant women or young children.
Safety Precautions
While the FDA has approved the use of DHA for application onto the skin, it is not approved for application in a tan mist booth, which involves exposure to a person's mucous membranes and inhalation. Therefore, it is important to take several precautions. This includes wearing eye protection, a lip balm that will repel the solution and a nose filter that can protect the nose against DHA inhalation or infiltration to the mucous membranes.
Allergic Reactions
With most items applied to the skin, allergic reactions known as contact dermatitis can cause redness or itching of the skin. This can happen due to DHA or other additives in the solution, such as moisturizers and other bronzing agents. Therefore, it may be a good idea to request testing a patch of the solution on your skin prior to application in order to ensure you will not experience an allergic reaction.
