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.