When an outdated technology is replaced by a new one, there is generally a period of uncertainty. This uncertainty arises when we compare the advantages and disadvantages of the technologies, research the benefits and seek answers. Debates on data protection regarding Facebook, or consumer rights with budget airlines are just two examples. This is no different in the case of spray tanning. In numerous articles (e.g. Boston Magazine, Advocate Health Care and Marina Hunley’s Blog “Happily ever after”), health aspects of spray tanning are discussed, for example whether the active ingredient DHA (dihydroxyacetone) in the tanning lotion is hazardous or not. The answers are for the most part incorrect or incomplete.

The US Skin Cancer Foundation has published a very interesting article on this. They say that use of the colouring agent DHA on the skin is a “safe, effective alternative to UV tanning”. The highest U.S. American health authority also classifies DHA as safe and allows “DHA to be externally applied for skin coloring”. At the same time, however, the FDA points out that inhalation of DHA should be avoided because it has not yet researched any risks which it may involve.

The health experts of the EU committee are one step ahead here. They have measured both the concentration of DHA in air and the quantity inhaled during a spray tan treatment and have given it the all-clear: “The use of DHA as spray tan ingredient does not pose any risk to the health of the consumer.” Going by the general accepted opinion among the discerning communities, we feel it is just the matter of time, before FDA too will adopt the same position.