Fighting breast cancer is challenging, and some people feel self-conscious about changes to their skin and appearance due to chemotherapy side effects.

Some MyBCTeam members have asked whether self-tanning products are safe to use during chemotherapy. “I’m tired of looking pasty white. Wondering if anyone has used self-tanning lotions or spray tans during chemo?” asked one member.

If you’re considering using self-tanning products while undergoing chemotherapy or are curious about ways to safely add some color to your skin, here are some things you should know.

🗳️ Have you ever tried self-tanning during chemotherapy?

Yes, I’ve tried spray tans.

Yes, I’ve tried self-tanning creams or lotions.

Yes, I use bronzer.

No

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How Safe Are Tanning Sprays and Lotions?

MyBCTeam members have reached out to others about the safety of self-tanners. One wrote, “What do you think of those fake tan creams? Someone said to go get a spray tan, but I don’t know how safe that is, chemically.”

Self-tanning sprays and lotions that affect skin pigment are also known as sunless tanning products. Spray tans are often applied at salons.

Another member shared their breast cancer skin care tips. “I used to be obsessed with tanning. I do spray tans, lotion, and use lots of bronzer on my face and neck. I get complimented all the time on my tan, and I feel a lot better.”

Self-tanning is generally considered a safe alternative to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunbathing or tanning beds, both of which can increase your risk for developing skin cancer. However, some self-tanning products contain substances that can irritate sensitive skin.

Sunless Tanning Products With DHA

Sunless tanning products imitate the effects of melanin, a natural substance in our skin that causes darkening of the skin. By triggering chemical reactions on the skin’s surface, these products make it look like you have a tan. After applying sunless tanning products, the tan remains on your skin and can typically last for several days without washing off.

Many self-tanners contain the chemical dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which has been found to cause adverse reactions in certain people. Some studies have shown that DHA tanning products cause side effects such as skin rashes, cough, dizziness, and fainting.

It’s important to note that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved DHA for topical skin tanning products — but not for spray tanning booths. This is because they don’t know the effects of DHA sprays getting in your mouth, nose, or eyes. Be sure to carefully cover these areas and take extra caution with spray tans.

What the Research Says

One study indicated that DHA is likely safe for people with a healthy skin barrier. Chemotherapy skin changes can disrupt this barrier, leading to dryness, itchiness, and other sensitivities. So, people trying self-tanning during chemo may be at a higher risk of adverse skin effects from tanning products with DHA.

Despite risks associated with DHA, some research shows that advances in sunless tanning products containing the chemical have yielded sunless tanning options that are safe for most people.

Tanning Products With Parabens

Parabens are another type of chemical that’s sometimes used in tanning products as a preservative. Research has shown that parabens can cause skin reactions in some people. These reactions include:

• Allergic reactions
• Rosacea, a type of inflammatory rash
• Contact dermatitis, a type of itchy rash

Tanning Bronzers

Bronzers are tanning products that contain the kind of color additives that are typically used in cosmetics. Unlike sunless tanning products, bronzers don’t cause a chemical reaction in the skin that changes its pigment.

Instead, these products cover the surface of the skin in the same way that makeup does and will wash off relatively quickly. Bronzers are available in a variety of forms, including tinted moisturizers and powders.

Although bronzers aren’t typically associated with health risks, some may contain DHA or parabens. Certain bronzers may also contain fragrances or alcohol, which may be irritating to sensitive skin.

It’s always a good idea to test a new product on a small patch of skin to see how your skin reacts to it. If you have an unpleasant reaction, be sure to wash off the product as soon as possible. Contact your doctor if unwanted skin symptoms continue.

Tanning Products To Avoid

The American Cancer Society warns against using unauthorized tanning products that haven’t been approved by the FDA. Some may contain harmful and dangerous chemicals.

Unregulated tanning products include:

• Tanning pills
• Tanning injections
• Tanning nasal sprays
• Tanning accelerators, which may be sold as pills, lotions, or oils

If you have questions about a particular product, talk to your healthcare team.

Indirect Risks Associated With Self-Tanning Products

A study of people who use tanning products indicated that self-tanning may lead to risky behaviors such as:

• Having a higher likelihood of using indoor tanning beds
• Staying out in the sun longer, which can cause more frequent sunburns
• Being less inclined to seek shade or wear protective clothing when exposed to sunlight

Self-tanning may provide a false sense of protection against the sun. It’s important to avoid sun exposure between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun is strongest, whenever possible.

Other things you can do to protect your skin include:

• Staying in the shade
• Wearing a hat with a wide brim
• Wearing clothing that protects your arms and legs
• Using a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and reapplying it every two hours

Add a Glow to Your Skin Without Tanning Products

If you’re concerned that chemotherapy has made your skin appear too pale, there are other actions you can take beyond applying tanning products.

Try Physical Activity

Exercise and physical activity get your blood moving and can help give your skin a more radiant look. A brisk walk or an appropriate workout routine can also be a great way to give your mood a lift. Remember to take the precautions mentioned above to protect your skin, including applying sunscreen.

Eat Well and Drink Enough Fluids

Eating a well-balanced diet and drinking plenty of water is good for your skin. A diet with lots of fruit, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, fatty fish, and legumes can promote healthy skin.

Staying hydrated looks different for everyone on chemotherapy. Your fluid needs can change depending on:

• Your treatment plan and medications
• The type of cancer you have
• The side effects you experience, like vomiting or diarrhea
• Any underlying medical conditions you have

Your cancer care team or a registered dietitian can recommend how much fluid intake you need every day.

Moisturize Your Skin

Keep your skin moisturized. Dry skin can sometimes appear more pale. Moisturizing can also help reduce itching caused by dry skin.

Wear Lighter-Colored Clothing

To reduce the appearance of pale skin, consider wearing lighter-colored or pastel clothing with warm colors, such as yellow, pink, or orange. Dark colors may make skin look pale because they contrast more with lighter tones.

Chemotherapy can affect the skin in many different ways and may cause some skin types to become darker. “My hands and feet are really getting dark from chemo,” one MyBCTeam member said. “The books call this ‘tanning’ and say that us darker-skinned folks really get it! Hopefully, this will be leaving me by the start of summer!”

If you’re concerned about skin changes during breast cancer treatment, talk to your oncologist about safe things you can do to feel better about your appearance. Always ask your doctor for medical advice before trying a new sunless tanning product.