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Before a Spray Tan: Ask About Exposure Protection

FDA advises asking a commercial spray-tan facility how it protects the entire eye area, mucous membranes and against inhaling or ingesting the product.

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In this article
  1. Ask before the spray or mist
  2. Use these questions with the facility
  3. Request an explanation of the measures

Ask before the spray or mist

A tanned appearance does not answer how exposure is controlled. FDA’s1 advice for commercial facilities using DHA-containing sprays or mists includes three questions.1

Use these questions with the facility

  • “How do you protect the entire eye area, not just the eyes themselves?”
  • “How do you protect the lips and other areas covered by mucous membranes?”
  • “How do you prevent inhaling or ingesting the product?”

These questions follow FDA’s1 exposure guidance for commercial spray-tanning facilities.1

Request an explanation of the measures

FDA1 advises requesting measures to protect the eyes and mucous membranes and prevent inhalation. Ask the facility to explain its measures before the service. A reassuring description of the finished color does not establish that these exposures are controlled.1

Skin, Head to Toe includes a visit script. Use it to organize the product and service questions you want answered. Explore the skin playbook.

This article is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It isn't a substitute for diagnosis or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional who knows your health history. Please don't ignore professional advice or delay getting care because of something you read here. If you think you may be having a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number right away. Girl Playbook does not endorse any specific product, test, or provider.

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Sources

The research behind this article, in the order it’s cited. How we source our articles.

  1. U.S. Food and Drug AdministrationSunless Tanners & Bronzers (opens in a new tab)abcdef

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