A tan can grace your complexion with a healthy, sun-kissed glow, but maintaining a "real" tan isn't always practical or safe. Individuals living in cool or cloudy climates may lack the sun exposure necessary to darken the skin, and damage from the sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation may contribute to premature wrinkles and skin cancer. Fake tanning--also called sunless tanning--is a popular alternative for those who want a deeper skin tone without exposure to the sun.
Process
Fake tanning works through the topical application of products containing dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a color additive that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) considers safe for external use. When DHA makes contact with the skin, it reacts with the amino acids in dead cells, sparking a chemical process that darkens the top layer of the skin. According to the Mayo Clinic, the coloration from DHA becomes visible one hour or more after application and takes full effect within eight to 24 hours. Because the skin gradually sheds dead cells, fake tans eventually fade.
Types
A variety of fake tanning methods are available to consumers, including home-use lotions and in-store tanning booths. Although the FDA does not regulate the terms "sunless tanner" and "bronzer," products with these names--including creams, lotions, gels and sprays--typically darken the skin when applied topically. In some cases, fake tanning products contain ingredients that protect against sun damage, in which case they are labeled with a sun protection factor (SPF) number. Some commercial facilities offer tanning booths that spray customers head-to-toe with a tanning product to darken the entire body.
Benefits
Fake tanning is generally safer and more convenient than traditional tanning methods. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, natural suntans come with a hefty health cost: irreversible damage to skin cells and a heightened risk of skin cancer. Fake tanning circumvents these concerns because it does not require exposure to the sun's UV rays. In addition, fake tanning allows you to maintain a deep skin hue throughout the year, even when cold weather and cloud cover make traditional tanning impossible. Individuals prone to sunburn can use fake tanning to darken their skin without suffering through painful redness and blistering.
Considerations
Although fake tanning is a safer option than natural tanning, it carries potential aesthetic downfalls. Rather than perfectly mimicking a natural tan, the DHA in tanning products may cause skin to bear a slight orange or yellow tinge. Uneven application of tanning products can leave the skin blotched with dark patches or streaks, which last several days until the fake tan fades. In some cases, fake tanning products must be left on the skin for several hours after application, which can pose an inconvenience if you need to shower or change clothes.
Warning
Fake tanning products containing DHA are approved for topical use, but they may be harmful if ingested or inhaled--which can potentially occur at spray tan booths. Likewise, the FDA has not deemed DHA safe for use near the eyes or on the lips. Although most people experience no adverse reactions from tanning creams, sprays or gels, the Skin Cancer Foundation states that fake tanning products may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in a small number of consumers. Unless a tanning product specifically lists an SPF number, it will not substitute for sunscreen or block UV radiation.
