JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The spray on golden glow that many people are turning to in order to avoid premature aging of the skin from tanning beds may not be as safe as people think.
Healthday recently reported that spray tanning may not be a healthy alternative to tanning beds.
The report shows the chemicals sprayed on the skin could possibly lead to cancer or even alter people's DNA.
Memorial Hospital's Dr. Cynthia Anderson said the news doesn't surprise her.
"Now that they see it penetrates, it can get in far enough to cause DNA mutations. That means damage to DNA and that can be a precursor for cancer," said Anderson.
Scientists have found that the active chemical used in spray tans, dihydroxyacetone, or DHA, may cause DNA damage.
Experts reviewed 10 of the most current studies on DHA and said the concerns about DHAs risks are not 100 percent conclusive, but that more studies need to be done before people are exposed to DHA in spray-on tanning booths.
The study, which was not done with human cells, also shows inhaling the mists used in spray tanning could be harmful to your lungs, but only if it's done multiple times.