Spray-On Tan Safety Questioned, Could Cause Cancer: So What? Say Addicts (VIDEO)
Spray tans may alter DNA and lead to multiple types of cancer, according to a number of recent studies.
The findings are based on a panel of medical experts who have united to evaluate a number of recent studies conducted on the effects of spray tanning.
"I have concerns," Dr. Rey Panettieri, a toxicologist and lung specialist at the University of Pennsylvania's Perelman School of Medicine, said. "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."
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Although the studies are still in their early stages and not enough research has been done, those going out to get spray tans to avoid the risks of cancer may have to think again.
"These compounds in some cells could actually promote the development of cancers or malignancies," Panettieri said, "and if that's the case then we need to be wary of them."
The use of DHA in spray tan chemicals has also not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration, which originally cleared the drug itself in 1971 but without knowing that it would later be used in spray tans.
"The use of DHA in 'tanning' booths as an all-over spray has not been approved by the FDA, since safety data to support this use has not been submitted to the agency for review and evaluation," the FDA informed ABC news, cautioning that it "should not be inhaled or ingested."
The warnings, however, have failed to phase some, who insist on getting a tan.
"I'd continue to have spray tans even if the links were proven and that is simply because it is something I love having done and, lets face it, EVERYTHING seems to lead to cancer these days!" 22 year-old Ashley wrote on the Daily Mail blog.
Such comments have led to the growing idea that tanning has actually become an addiction.
