What Are the Dangers of Sunless Tanning?

The hidden dangers associated with sunless tanning are often overlooked. Understanding how color additives in large amounts affect the body, can help consumers make an informed choice, when selecting self tanning options.

Significance

Unlike the warnings that exist for ultra violet rays associated with sunbathing and tanning beds, the dangers of sunless tanning often go unnoticed. The dangers lie in the chemicals found in the ingredients of sunless tanners.

Function

Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) is found in creams, gels, lotions and sprays. DHA is a color additive that interacts with the amino acids found on the epidermis. Canthaxanthin is a color additive that works when ingested in large doses. It is deposited throughout the body, therefore, coloring the skin.

Types

Sunless tanning involves the use of creams, gels, lotions, sprays or pills. Creams, gels, and lotions can be bought over the counter, and sprays are applied at tanning salons.

Considerations

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has received reports of reactions associated with DHA in spray tanning booths. The DHA color additive is considered "safe" but unapproved by the FDA, as an all over body spray. The FDA strongly cautions avoidance of internal exposure by inhalation or ingestion through the eyes, lips and mucous membrane. The FDA does not approve of canthaxanthin, as a simulation tanner and warns of its misuse.

Warning

Canthaxanthin has been associated with canthaxanthin-induced retinopathy, the formation of crystals in the eyes, resulting in decreased visual acuity. This condition may persist for up to seven years after discontinuation of canthaxanthin. Reactions reported to the FDA associated with canthaxanthin include: nausea, cramping, diarrhea, severe itching, welts and rashes. Reactions associated with DHA include: coughing, dizziness and fainting.

References

• U.S. Food and Drug Administration - Sunless Tanners and Bronzers
• U.S. Food and Drug Administration - Tanning Pills