Sunless tanning products

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Sunless tanning products

If you use sunless tanning products, remember that you are still at risk of over-exposure to ultraviolet rays (UV rays). Although some sunless tanning products contain sunscreen, they are only as effective as other sunscreens and the protection doesn’t last as long as the “tan” does. Bronzers and self-tanners should replace, not supplement, tanning from excessive exposure to the sun’s rays or the use of tanning beds and sunlamps. We recommend you follow the Canadian Cancer Society’s SunSense guidelines.

What are bronzers and sunless tanning products?

Sunless tanning products applied to the skin (also known as self-tanners) are considered to be cosmetics by Health Canada. Unlike bronzers, self-tanners contain dyes that are absorbed by the topmost layer of skin and interact with it to create a bronzed appearance. The intensity of colour depends on the amount of active ingredient in the product as well as the number of applications and the frequency of use. The “tan” fades when use of the product is discontinued and the dyes leave the skin. Self-tanners have not been shown to pose a health risk. If the sunless tanning product is applied by spraying, however, you should be careful to protect your mouth, eyes and nose.

Bronzers are cosmetics that tint the skin’s surface golden-brown and can be washed off with soap and water. They are generally considered safe to use.

Health Canada considers oral tanning products (also known as tanning pills) to be drugs and has not approved the use of any oral products for tanning purposes. Until they have been reviewed and experts believe they are safe, these products should be avoided.
Last modified on: 26 June 2008
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