The Facts

• Spray tans contain dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which darkens the skin. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration classifies it as a food additive.
  
  

Functions

• Spray tan booths or salons provide tanners with a misting of sunless tanning products containing DHA. The DHA reacts with dead skin cells to produce a deep, dark tan on the outermost layer of skin.
  
  

Application

• Most spray tans are applied in an enclosed booth at a salon or tanning spa. Tanners stand in the center of the booth and the mist is sprayed on both sides of the body. The coloring is temporary--it typically lasts for five to seven days.
  
  

Considerations

• As with any type of lotion, tanners should avoid contact with the eyes, mouth and nose. Spray tans are designed to cover the face, so it is important to avoid inhaling the mist during tanning sessions.
  
  

Regulation

• Although the FDA has approved the use of sunless tanning products, it has not yet reviewed and approved spray tan booths. The agency has not determined whether exposure to the eyes, lips and mucous membrane are safe or dangerous.