Spray Tans Not So Safe After All?

If you’ve been turning to spray tans because you think it’s a safer alternative to tanning beds, or even baking in the sun, then we’ve got some bad news for you: Scientists are now warning that spray tans are not safer, in fact, they may be linked to serious health problems, including cancer.

New research has found that DHA, the active chemical used in spray tans, can be very harmful, with the potential to cause genetic alterations and DNA damage! According to Times Live, a panel of medical experts reviewed 10 scientific studies on DHA, and discovered that DHA can enter the lungs and be absorbed into the blood stream where it could damage DNA and cause tumors. They also claim that it can cause lung problems including emphysema and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and may make asthma worse.

I have concerns,” Dr. Rey Panettieri, a toxicologist and lung specialist at the University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine, told ABC. “The reason I’m concerned is the deposition of the tanning agents into the lungs could really facilitate or aid systemic absorption — that is, getting into the bloodstream.”

He adds: “These compounds in some cells could actually promote the development of cancers or malignancies, and if that’s the case then we need to be wary of them.”

Panettieri says it’s probably okay if you get a spray tan occasionally, like once a month, but there could be serious health problems for those who use salons frequently or for employees spraying the stuff on customers.

If this isn’t enough to stop you from your usual spray tan, the FDA advises to take protective measures, such as wearing protective eyewear, lip balm, nose filters, and protective undergarments to prevent the chemical from entering the body. But why take the chance? Is an orange glow really worth it?

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