With all the warning about the dangers of too much sun, more and more people are resorting to self tanners to get that natural-looking glow. But are they really safe? Dr. Todd Minars of Minars Dermatology, based in Hollywood, Florida, thinks they are the lesser of all evils.
I don’t think that self-tanners, which come in lotions, sprays and gels, are dangerous. One ingredient is common to all of them — dihydroxyacetone. It is a harmless sugar that interacts with the dead skin cells you find on the surface of your skin to give you a fake tan. In any case, using a self-tanning product is far better than getting a real tan.
The main danger is that some people may confuse a self-tanning lotion with a sunscreen. There is always the risk that some people would think that they work in the same way. But hopefully people will realize that a self-tanning lotion or spray is not protective.
Skin Exams Difficult
In and of itself, a self-tanning product is not dangerous, although the ones that you swallow may be, which is why those types are illegal here. Products which you rub or spray onto your skin are certainly preferable to somebody doing in or outdoor tanning, either exposing themselves to the sun or a tanning bed.
However, fake tans can make skin exams more difficult, as you can imagine. The reason is because you are changing the appearance of things. Fake tans last about two weeks, so if you are scheduled to have a skin exam it is better to let them wear off first.
Better Than Before
Fake tanning products have changed in recent years. They used to provide a streaky appearance at best. But now you can buy a quality one in a drugstore and do it yourself. There are also places where you can stand and have somebody spray you down with the same chemical.
There are two main types of self-tanning products. Some are bronzers and dye your skin, others cause a chemical reaction. The injections and pills play with the pigmentation of your skin instead of just dying it, which is why they are not recommended.
The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.
