Does a woman risk fertility problems by using fake tan? ‘Cocktail’ of chemicals in products can affect development of babies
Women who use fake tan could put themselves at an increased risk of fertility problems and having babies with birth defects, according to experts.
Although seen as a safe alternative to sunbeds, the products can contain a ‘cocktail’ of chemicals which may pose a risk to health – and can even cause cancer.
Among the dangerous ingredients found in fake tan are hormone-disrupting compounds, which can affect the healthy development of babies.
The products often also contain carcinogens, including formaldehyde and nitrosamines, as well as skin irritants and chemicals linked to allergies, diabetes, obesity and fertility problems.
The potentially dangerous effects of fake tan are thought to be more worrying than for other cosmetics as it is applied over the whole body regularly.
Jacqueline McGlade, executive director of the European Environment Agency, said the chemicals it contains ‘may be a contributing factor behind the significant increases in cancers, diabetes, obesity and falling fertility’.
