spray tans? advise me

BunsenBurner
Wed, 27 Apr 2016 21:24:35 +0000

VA, you might appreciate this:

Sunless Tanning Sprays and Lotions

Sunless tanning delivers a faux glow by coating your skin with the chemical dihydroxyacetone (DHA). DHA interacts with the dead surface cells in the epidermis to darken skin color and simulate a tan, and the result usually lasts for several days.

While the FDA allows DHA to be “externally applied” for skin coloring, there are restrictions on its use. DHA should not be inhaled, ingested, or exposed to areas covered by mucous membranes including the lips, nose, and areas in and around the eye (from the top of the cheek to above the eyebrow) because the risks, if any, are unknown.

Most sunless tanning sprays and lotions do not contain a skin protecting sunscreen. Make sure you apply an even coat of sunscreen to all exposed skin at least 30 minutes before going outdoors.

The FDA is aware that some tanning salons sell packages with both sunless tanning spray and UV tanning. The risk of combining exposure to UV radiation from either the sun or indoor tanning devices followed by sunless tanning sprays (or vice versa) is unknown in humans.

More Information on Sunless Tanning Products

Using Sunless Tanners:

Before using a sunless tanning booth, ask the tanning salon these questions to make sure you will be protected:
•Will my eyes and the area surrounding them be protected?
•Will my nose, mouth, and ears be protected?
•Will I be protected from inhaling the tanning spray through my nose or mouth?

If the answer to any of these questions is “no,” look for another salon. Otherwise you are putting yourself at risk for exposure to chemicals with potentially dangerous effects.

You should also take precautions if you’re applying a self-tanner at home. Most self tanners contain the same DHA used in sunless tanning salons. Self-tanners are available in many forms, including lotions, creams, and sprays that you apply and let soak in to your skin. Follow the directions on the self-tanner label carefully and take care not to get the self-tanner in your eyes, nose, or mouth.