Spray Tanning May Pose Serious Health Risks

In the past, Greenville Dermatology has mentioned the benefits of spray tanning versus traditional tanning beds. However, recent findings conducted by a panel of ten medical experts show that spray tanning may have potential dangers and pose serious health risks.

According to the panel, dihydoroxyacetone (DHA), an active chemical in spray tanning solutions can cause DNA damage and genetic alterations on a cellular level.

“These compounds in some cells could actually promote the development of cancers or malignancies," said Dr. Rey Panettiere, a toxicologist and lung specialist at the University of Pennsylvania's Perelman School of Medicine.  "And if that's the case then we need to be wary of them” said Panettiere.

According to ABC News, DHA should not be inhaled or digested. After launching an investigation, ABC News found that a lot of tanning salons do not offer nose plugs or mouth protectors to prevent inhalation or digestion of the fumes. Furthermore, the FDA only approves DHA in tanning lotions and not the DHA in spray tanning.

More studies need to be conducted before any real recommendations are made.  It is not known at this time how much spray tanning, if any, can be done before levels become hazardous.  I will certainly be monitoring any developments and for now recommend moderation.