Spray Tan Risks: Dihydroxyacetone Chemical Could Damage DNA, ABC News Finds

A chemical in spray tan could possibly alter and damage DNA, according to an investigation by ABC News.

Ten recent studies on the chemical, called dihydroxyacetone, or DHA, were reviewed by medical experts who were called upon by ABC News. However, the studies were only on cells in a lab and not in humans.

"These compounds in some cells could actually promote the development of cancers or malignancies," Dr. Rey Panettieri, who is a lung specialist and toxicologist at the University of Pennsylvania, told ABC News. "And if that's the case then we need to be wary of them."

MyHealthNewsDaily reported that DHA is approved by the Food and Drug Administration for outside use only, meaning it shouldn't be eaten, inhaled, put on the lips or used near the eyes. However, some tanning booths use spray tan that contains DHA, which has the potential to be inhaled if people aren't given the right protective gear, ABC News reported.

For the full report, watch the video above and make sure to click over to ABC News' full report.