Harmful Effects of Sunless Tanning

The awareness of the harmful effects of ultraviolet rays are on the rise, and many tan enthusiasts have turned to sunless tanning options. Sunless tanning is the result of chemical dyes that stain the skin. Although this represents an alternative to ultraviolet rays, the ultimate impact of regular chemical treatments is currently unknown, and sunless tanning lotions do not protect the skin from UV rays the way that melanin, the natural tanning agent, would in a real tan.

Identification

• Sunless tanning requires the use of lotions, creams and sprays to tint the skin a color similar to that of a tan. They are allowable under the guidelines of the Federal Drug Administration, but adverse effects have been reported to the FDA, including skin rash and irritation.

Tanning Lotions and Sprays

• Sunless tanning lotions and sprays do not wash off. The active ingredient in these products is a chemical called dihydroxyacetone, or DHA. DHA works with the dead skin cells on the outer layer of the dermis and essentially dyes it a golden brown color. There is currently no conclusive data concerning the long-term effect of DHA use.

DHA

• DHA is a sugar compound derived from sugar beets and sugar cane. Scientists in Germany first discovered its skin changing properties prior to World War II. By 1960, a commercial tanning product was introduced but its dramatic orange effect caused negative feedback. Today, sunless tanning agents produce a more realistic look. However, some people may experience skin irritation after using products with this chemical.

Adverse Effects of DHA

• DHA is considered safe by the Federal Drug Administration. However, a Berlin Laboratory has determined that during the 24-hour period of time after a sunless tanner is applied, the skin is especially susceptible to damage caused by free radicals in sunlight.

Protection

• DHA and most sunless tanning products do not protect the skin from the sun's UV rays, so you must protect the skin with a standard SPF sunscreen.