Fake tan

There is no such thing as a ‘safe tan’ when it comes to UV radiation from the sun and sunbeds. If you really desire a tanned look, then the only safe way to do this is by getting a spray tan or using a reputable bottled fake tan product.

Tanning from sunbathing or using a sunbed is your body’s natural reaction from the damage caused in the skin cells from too much UV radiation. No forms of melanotan-II nasal sprays and injections have been approved for human use in the UK and should not be used.

It is important to note that having a spray tan or using fake tan does NOT protect your skin from the UV emitted by the sun or sunbeds. Remember to wear factor 30+ sunscreen, a hat, seek shade and cover up in the heat of the day.

Fake tans and spray tans

A fake tan is a cream or oil-based product that comes in a bottle. They can come in different forms such as a cream, mousse or serum. A spray tan is a fine mist that is professionally sprayed on the body.

Are fake tans and spray tans safe?

Fake tans and spray tans contain dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which reacts with the top layer of your skin to change its colour. In 2020, the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety found that fake tan products containing DHA are not a health risk.[1]

There are many different bottled self-tanning products available, each varying in formulation, texture, fragrance, and overall finish. Since individual preferences differ, in many cases it can be trial and error to see which one works for you.

Somebody applying fake tan with a fake tan glove

Relevant References:

[1] Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety. Opinion on Dihydroxyacetone (2020). https://health.ec.europa.eu/document/download/c34cee64-4318-4feb-a8ac-296f60815926_en