We all know to avoid the sun’s rays, but what do you do if you still want a summery glow? Sunless tanning is a popular alternative to the sun and tanning beds, thanks to improved formulas that don’t leave your skin orange and streaky. But are sunless tanning products safe?
What is sunless tanner?
First, let’s define sunless tanner, also called self-tanner. Sunless tanner is a cosmetic product that comes in lotion, mousse, spray or oil formulas. Its active ingredient, DHA (dihydroxyacetone), reacts with the amino acids in your skin to create a temporary brown pigment. You can get a professional spray-on tan or apply a sunless tanner at home.
Sunless tanner is considered safer than getting a tan with UV rays because it only darkens the top layer of dead skin cells. UV ray exposure is a known risk factor for skin cancer and should be avoided. UVB rays penetrate and damage the top layers of skin, while UVA rays penetrate even deeper layers of skin. This is why it’s important to apply broad-spectrum sunscreen, which protects from both UVA and UVB rays.
Sunless tanning safety precautions
The DHA in self-tanner is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for external use on the skin. However, the risks are unknown when the product is inhaled, which is possible when using a spray formula.
If you get a professional spray tan or use a spray at home, hold your breath when applying, use it in a well-ventilated area and protect your mouth, lips, nose and eyes. Consider wearing goggles, nose plugs and lip balm when using a spray.
Like any cosmetic product (such as lotion, makeup and perfume), sunless tanner has the potential to cause an allergic reaction. Test a small amount on your wrist 24 hours before applying it to the rest of your body. If you don’t have a reaction after 24 hours, it is likely okay to apply it to your face and body.
Protect your skin, even with a faux glow
Despite giving you a tanner appearance, sunless tanner doesn’t give you a “base tan” that reduces your chances of sunburn and most formulas do not contain SPF. Whenever you will be exposed to UV rays – when driving, walking outside, spending time at the pool, etc. – apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, wear a hat, sunglasses and protective clothing, and seek shade whenever possible.
And even a “base tan” isn’t safe. Any time UV rays from the sun or a tanning bed cause you to tan or burn, your skin is being damaged.
Remember, you don’t have to use sunless tanner. It’s just a matter of personal preference. If you aren’t sure if sunless tanning is right for you, ask your primary care provider. To find one near you, visit pardeehospital.org.
