Are Spray Tans Safe?
photo by Rido
Yes, spray tans are safe as well as the ingredients in the spray solution when used as directed.
Are Spray Tans Carcinogenic?
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Contrary to popular belief, applying a fake or spray-on tan following the manufacturer's instructions will not result in cancer according to Cancer Research UK. Cancer Research UK also says In 2020, experts at the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety found that fake tan products containing DHA are not a health risk, and they will continue monitoring the evidence.
What you don’t want to do is ingest the solution! Don’t breathe it in copious amounts! Every reputable spray tan salon has nose filters if you need them or want them. The risks of danger are so low that exact data can’t even be produced showing spray tans to be carcinogenic or even dangerous. A good spray tan is light years better than a suntan or UV bed tan.
However, remember that neither a spray tan nor a tan from the sun can shield your skin from the harmful effects of too much ultraviolet radiation, which can lead to melanoma. Whenever the sun is particularly intense, preserving your skin is essential, even if you already have a tan. Put on protective gear, and sunscreen rated 4 or 5 stars with an SPF of at least 15.
Is A Spray Tan Safer Than Tanning Beds?
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Some advantages of tanning beds over sunless tanning have been discovered in recent research. Light exposure to ultraviolet radiation from tanning beds has been shown to have health benefits beyond just a healthy glow: it can boost blood flow, alleviate depression, and generate vitamin D, all while promoting strong bones.
Consider the potential side effects of ultraviolet radiation while deciding between a spray tan and a tanning bed. Tanning beds have a few benefits, but spray tanning eliminates them. In contrast to tanning beds, which have been linked to health problems like aging, wrinkles, and skin cancer, spray tanning has no such drawbacks.
Is Spray Tan Safe To Breathe?
Dihydroxyacetone, a component found in all tan spray solutions, is present in minute quantities (DHA). Once applied to the skin's surface, DHA combines with the skin's amino acids to produce the desired brown color. However, if you don't breathe it in, DHA is harmless. Don’t breathe in deeply or wear nose filters during a spray tan application to minimize the chance of breathing in the chemical. Asthmatics should exercise extra caution, as usual.
DHA is listed in the regulations as a color additive for use in imparting color to the human body. However, its use in cosmetics--including sunless "tanning" products--is restricted to external application (21 CFR 73.2150). Wearing protective gear like goggles or a mask is a good idea while spraying to ensure your eyes stay safe. For best results, use it in a well-ventilated location. Most reputable spray tan artists and salons have good ventilation systems. Arena spray booths are very good as they usually have four to five built-in extraction fans.
Do Spray Tans Cause Aging?
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Some experts have speculated that the substances in fake tans may contribute to skin problems. Most tanning products function by reacting with the dead skin cells that make up the skin's surface. As a result of what has been dubbed the "Maillard reaction," which occurs when these chemicals come into contact with the skin, compounds are formed that cause the skin to change color. The reaction's active component, dihydroxyacetone, is found in many commercial tanning products and serves as a skin colorant.
No direct evidence of skin or aging issues has been reported.
Spray tanners contain substances that may cause issues if inhaled for long periods, but there are things you can do to limit your exposure to these chemicals. If you go to a salon or spray tan artist, they should use tanning methods approved by the Food and Drug Administration.
What Are The Benefits Of Using A Spray Tan?
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Applying a spray tan is a risk-free, fast method for achieving a healthy glow. You may get the precise glow you want with personalized spray tans customized for your skin tone, including:
1. It gives healthier skin
Spray tans, a healthy alternative to tanning in the sun, can help you seem tanned immediately without putting your skin in harm's way. Both indoor and solar tanning beds expose users to potentially cancerous levels of ultraviolet radiation. The Food and Drug Administration has approved the components in the spray tan, and the formulae are explicitly developed to enhance the appearance and feel of your skin.
2. Quick and easy process to apply
Spray tans are indeed the fastest way to get a natural-looking bronzed complexion. In contrast to spending hours mainly in the sun or tanning bed, a spray tan only takes a few minutes to apply and results in color that lasts for weeks. Instead, you can use a spray tan to save time and get a natural-looking tan without the risk.
3. It gives a long-lasting glow or tan
Maintaining your spray tan for the full 12 days is possible with the proper aftercare. Whether you want a tan for a special occasion or to keep it up all year long, you may find a solution that suits your needs.
4. You will apply an even tan throughout your body
An even, natural-looking tan all over your body results from a personalized spray tan. With customized results, you may get a quick, even tan all over your body without worrying about streaks. Spray tans can be uneven, but with the proper removal techniques, you can get a flawless finish every time.
Conclusion
I believe you need to use good judgment and common sense in life. “Too much of anything will kill you” my mom use to say. Spray tans, when performed correctly, are safe. Don’t eat the solution. Don’t drink it. Don’t breathe it in all the time.
Do your own research as well. Become an informed consumer and make smart decisions for yourself!
