New reports claim that the “cocktail” of chemicals found in fake tanning products may lead to a surprising long list of medical complications including cancer, unexplained infertility, diabetes, allergies, obesity and more.
The fake tan – which has been touted as the “safe” alternative to outdoor sunbathing and tanning salons – is actually a mix of approximately 30 different types of chemicals. When these chemicals come in contact with the skin a reaction occurs, browning the cells, similar to a apple turning brown when left out in the open.
Several carcinogens including formaldehyde and nitrosamines, along with chemicals known to disrupt hormones and damage DNA, are found in fake tanning products.
While the fake taking products are only supposed to come in contact with the outer dead layers of the skin – the concern is that these chemicals may be absorbed into the bloodstream when applied on the skin or inhaled. This absorption could lead to tumor development and disruptions in a developing fetus.
Some experts speculate if the rise in popularity of fake tan use could be corresponding with a rise in cancer and maybe one of the many reasons for miscarriage.
For the time being these products have been considered safe by cosmetic regulators. However, environmental watch groups encourage consumers to limit their use until their effects are fully understood.
My mom wouldn’t let me use at-home fake tanning products when I was a teenager because of all the chemicals and dyes – I never paid attention to her, but it’s definitely something to think about. Are home bronzing lotions as bad as salon spray tans?
Fake tans arent good for anything!and they don’t look good!