Can self-tanning products also be harmful?

The use of self-tanning products generally involves few risks. Its use is usually harmless, as only the outermost layer of skin is stained and the product cannot enter the body’s circulation. Self-tanning lotion is absolutely unsuitable for children, as children’s skin behaves differently than adults’ skin.

People with skin diseases such as eczema, neurodermatitis or psoriasis must be careful with the use of self-tanning products and should only use them after consulting their doctor. Patients with chronic skin diseases should avoid it completely. In case of known allergies or hypersensitivity reactions to an ingredient, self-tanning lotion can be harmful and it is not recommended to use it then.

Products that contain psoralen should be avoided. Psoralen is used as a tanning accelerator and is therefore contained in many tanning creams. However, it is suspected of being carcinogenic. Experts also advise against buying products that contain silicone oils or dangerous parabens. Therefore you should pay close attention to the ingredients before buying!

How often may I use self-tanning products?

Tanning creams can be applied as often as desired depending on the desired tanning intensity. The artificial tan disappears on its own after three to five days, as the stained skin flakes become detached from the cell structure of the skin and fall off. Therefore, you can use self-tanning products regularly to achieve a constant result.

What is DHA and should I avoid it?

Self-tanning lotions contain dihydroxyacetone as the main active ingredient. This organic compound is not harmful to humans, as it is also produced in the body’s natural metabolism and is widely distributed in nature.DHA is a monosaccharide, i.e. a simple sugar, which is colorless and, due to its characteristic odor, is responsible for the typical smell of tanning creams. Depending on their intensity, self-tanning creams normally contain 2 – 5 % DHA; a higher DHA content results in a darker skin tone.

DHA works by entering into a chemical reaction with proteins and amino acids in the cornea of the epidermis. As a result, brown pigments are formed, which are deposited in the cells of the cornea and thus lead to the desired tanning effect. DHA is a harmless substance and harmless to humans.

It becomes problematic, however, if self-tanning products are stored for a long time, because then DHA decomposes and formaldehyde is produced. Heat exposure accelerates this process, which is why self-tanning products should always be stored in a dark and cool place without direct sunlight. Formaldehyde is considered carcinogenic, can cause skin irritation and allergies and is banned in the EU as an additive in cosmetics. The decomposition of DHA to formaldehyde in self-tanning products goes unnoticed by the consumer. To avoid any risk, tanning creams should therefore be disposed of no more than three months after opening.