• Tanning booths expose users to potential chemical hazards.Stockbyte/Stockbyte/Getty Images
  
  Spray tan booths are a popular option among many men and women as both a way to tan and as an alternative to baking in the sun. Unfortunately, spray booths are not the best option either. Your body can still be exposed to harmful chemicals while in a spray tan booth.
  
  

Chemical Definition

• When you go into a spray tan booth, your body is sprayed with a chemical to give you a tanned look. That chemical, also known as the active ingredient, is called dihydroxyacetone (DHA). In a nutshell, DHA reacts to the amino acids in dead skin cells on your body to create the tan look. It fades as your body sheds those dead skin cells. That's why your tan disappears in about a week because those dead skin cells are being removed as you shower and go about your daily routine.
  
  

Toxicity

• DHA is considered safe when applied to your skin. The chemical only touches those dead skin cells, so it isn't absorbed into your skin. But while the Food & Drug Administration has approved DHA for skin contact, the chemical is not approved for inhalation. Considering you're in the booth for at least a couple minutes, you can inhale potentially toxic chemicals.
  
  

Hazards

• If you have sensitive skin, you may have a higher likelihood of being allergic to DHA. Skin allergies like that are called contact dermatitis by the Mayo Clinic. This essentially means that your skin is irritated or develops a rash because of a chemical irritant that comes in contact with your skin. Another problem with DHA is for asthmatics. Because the spray is full of DHA, the amount of oxygen in the booth is limited. This can cause coughing, dizziness and even fainting spells.
  
  

Precautions

• The safest option is to embrace your skin tone as it is. However, if you insist on a tan or uniform look to your skin tone, there are a few other options. Try using a self-tanning lotion. Skin contact is safe and you won't be inhaling DHA in a small space. You can also mix a hint of foundation with moisturizer and apply for a flawless look with none of the dangers. Finally, if you just can't give up spray tanning, cover your nose and mouth during the process to prevent excess inhalation.