Even before summer fully arrives, the trend of tanning for a more sensual, modern and bold appearance has exploded across social media. However, not every tanning method is completely safe.

Under the influence of Hollywood, K-pop, and social media, the imagery of a sun-kissed, glowing, and healthy bronze complexion paired with a toned physique is increasingly coveted. Bronze makeup styles and various tanning methods constantly emerge, rapidly capturing public fascination.

Numerous Vietnamese celebrities are progressively transforming their image to catch up with this edgy, striking trend. Singer and actress Diep Lam Anh has drawn significant attention with her robust bronzed skin and seductive style. Singers Juky San and Phuong Ly have also recently "joined the race" for a tanned look.

Dr. Vu Nguyet Minh, director of the Clinical Trial Center at National Hospital of Dermatology and Venereology, said the tanning trend originates from differences in beauty standards between Asian and Western cultures.

Minh said that in Vietnam and many Asian countries, fair skin has long been considered a symbol of comfort and privilege. In contrast, many Western women prefer tanned skin because it is associated with an active lifestyle, vacations and sunbathing.

Amid such a high demand, many tanning methods have emerged. Previously, the most common methods were sunbathing or using tanning beds and UV lamps that directly expose the skin to ultraviolet rays. These methods were widely used in Europe for many years.

“However, later studies showed that excessive UV exposure could increase the risk of skin cancer,” Minh told VietNamNet on May 15. As a result, the current trend has shifted toward UV-free tanning products using creams or spray tan solutions applied directly to the skin’s surface.

According to Minh, the active ingredient commonly used in these products is DHA (dihydroxyacetone). When applied to the skin, the substance reacts with sweat, proteins and the outer layer of dead skin cells to create a brown color, similar to a makeup effect. This process only changes the color of the outermost skin layer and does not make the skin “tan naturally” or alter the skin’s actual pigment.

Today’s tanning products are mainly available in cream or spray form. After about 24 hours, the skin color becomes more visible and usually lasts for 5-7 days before gradually fading as dead skin cells naturally shed during bathing and skincare routines. To maintain the tanned look, users need to continue reapplying the product.

What are the health risks?

Although UV-free tanning methods are considered much safer and significantly reduce cancer risks compared to sunbathing or UV tanning beds, Minh warned that many people become overly complacent after tanning. Some mistakenly believe that once their skin appears darker, sunscreen is no longer necessary. But in fact, the actual skin underneath remains unchanged.

“The skin may look brown, but its original condition has not changed. Without sunscreen and proper skin protection, the risks of sunburn, skin damage and even skin cancer still increase,” Minh emphasized.

Besides sunscreen, people with tanned skin should still need to use physical sun protection measures such as sun-protective clothing, wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses and umbrellas when outdoors.

Another issue highlighted by experts is the safety of spray and topical tanning products themselves. According to Minh, both the US Food and Drug Administration and European regulators allow the use of DHA for tanning purposes, but only on the skin’s surface. These agencies do not recommend allowing the chemical to come into contact with the eyes, mouth or nose, or to be inhaled or swallowed.

There is still insufficient evidence proving that these substances are safe when entering the respiratory or digestive systems. Therefore, when using spray tanning products, users should carefully protect their eyes, nose and mouth.

Minh noted that many unverified tanning products of unclear origin are now circulating on the market. While the FDA only recognizes DHA as the officially accepted ingredient for tanning products, many unregulated products still contain ingredients whose safety has not been properly verified.

Phuong Thuy