Tanning Accelerators: How Safe are They?
These products, often called tan promoters, cause people to tan faster. They do this by increasing the rate of production of a substance called melanin. Melanin is found in certain skin cells called melanocytes.Melanin is directly responsible for the lightness or darkness of a personò€™s skin. People with darker skin tones have more melanin present in their skin, while people with fair skin have less melanin present. Because tanning accelerators increase the rate of melanin production, they cause people to tan more quickly.
Tanning accelerators can be purchased in two different forms. Some are available as pills, while others are sold as lotions. The most common substances used in tanning promoters are tyrosine and psoralen.
Both tyrosine and psoralen are substances called amino acids. These act as building blocks for the proteins, such as melanin, which are produced by the bodyò€™s cells. Although these amino acids are very effective in increasing melanin production, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not formally approved their use as tanning promoters.
Another problem with tanning accelerators is that these products are less effective when used with a sunscreen. For this reason, many sunbathers opt to tan without protective sunscreen. Furthermore, psoralen causes the skin to be more sensitive to ultraviolet rays. For this reason, products containing tyrosine may be somewhat safer, especially for people with fair skin who are already more sensitive to the effects of sun exposure.
Therefore, although people may in fact tan faster, they are more likely to receive increased exposure to the sunò€™s ultraviolet rays if they choose to use these products on a regular basis. People who tan frequently without sunscreen, together with persons who are more sensitive to ultraviolet rays have an increased risk of skin cancer.
If you are interested in tanning quickly for a special event, and are considering using tanning accelerators, use common sense. Donò€™t tan without sunscreen, and watch your skin for any reaction to the product. Also, be alert to any signs of skin cancer and see a physician immediately if you find a questionable growth.