A cross-sectional review of contact allergens in popular self-tanning products.

BACKGROUND

In recent years, self-tanners have become a well-liked alternative to sun tanning and tanning bed usage, as strikingly similar results can be achieved without the harmful side effects of ultraviolet exposure.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to investigate the presence and prevalence of potential allergens in the most popular self-tanning products.

METHODS

Five major retailers in the United States were evaluated, from which 17 different brands and 44 unique self-tanning products were analyzed. The ingredients in each self-tanning product were compared with 80 and 36 notable contact allergens taken from the North American Contact Dermatitis Group and Food and Drug Administration-approved T.R.U.E (Thin-Layer Rapid Use Epicutaneous Patch Test), respectively.

RESULTS

We found that contact allergens are frequently present in self-tanning products; allergens especially common are propylene glycol, linalool, polysorbate, d-limonene, benzyl alcohol, tocopherol (vitamin E), fragrances, and other scented botanicals. On average, each self-tanner we analyzed contained 11.86 allergens.

LIMITATIONS: The limitation is that commercial names could not be eliminated from the analysis, introducing potential bias.

CONCLUSION

While self-tanning products are a safer alternative to tanning bed use or sunbathing, consumers and clinicians alike must be aware that they may cause an allergic reaction of the skin for some users.