Is Fake Tanning Safe? What you really need to know

May 01, 2025 Zoe Klein

☀️ Skip the Sunburn: Is Fake Tan Actually Safe?

The short answer? Yes, fake tan is generally safe—when used correctly. Unlike UV tanning, which puts your skin at risk of damage, fake tan offers that bronzed glow without the burn. Most self-tanning products rely on a sugar-derived ingredient called DHA (dihydroxyacetone), which reacts with the top layer of your skin to create a temporary tan. No UV rays. No long-term harm.

So, What Is DHA and Is It Safe?

DHA is the active ingredient in most self-tanners. It only interacts with the outermost layer of your skin, meaning it doesn't get absorbed into your bloodstream. It’s approved by both the FDA (in the US) and the TGA (in Australia) for external use only.

Still, it’s important to follow directions. For example, if you're using a spray tan:

Avoid inhaling the mist
Keep it away from your eyes, nose, and mouth
Apply in a well-ventilated area

The Rise of Clean, Skin-Loving Self-Tanners

Not all fake tans are created equal. Some older formulas used to contain drying alcohols or strong fragrances, which could irritate sensitive skin. Thankfully, things have changed.

Today’s best self-tanning products—like those from Ohh My Glo—are:

Fragrance-free & unscented
Vegan & cruelty-free
Paraben-free
Made with natural and organic ingredients

Look for nourishing extras like Kakadu Plum, Argan Oil, Aloe Vera, or Vitamin E, which help your tan last longer while also supporting healthy skin.

A Few Safety Tips to Keep in Mind

Even the safest self-tanner needs proper use. Here’s how to protect your glow—and your skin:

Patch test first: Especially if you have sensitive or reactive skin
Don’t inhale sprays: Use a mask or apply in a well-ventilated room
Avoid broken skin: Don’t apply tan to cuts, eczema, or inflamed areas
Rinse your hands: Always wash your palms after application unless you’re using a mitt

Why Fake Tan Is Safer Than Sun Tanning

Tanning under the sun (or in a solarium) exposes your skin to UV radiation, which can cause:

Premature ageing
Pigmentation and sunspots
Increased risk of melanoma and other skin cancers

Self-tan, on the other hand, offers all the glow with none of the risk. So you can look sun-kissed, not sun-damaged.

Is Fake Tan Worth It?

If you’re craving bronzed skin but want to skip the damage, self-tan is your safest option. Choose formulas with clean, skin-friendly ingredients and follow basic safety steps—and you’re golden.

At Ohh My Glo, our fake tans are made with love, care, and experience—by a professional tanner who gets it. No nasties, no stickiness, and absolutely no fake-looking orange tones.