Tanning gummies have surged in popularity, promising a sun-kissed glow without the need for UV exposure. While they may seem like a convenient and harmless shortcut to a bronzed appearance, the reality is far more concerning. Many of these dietary supplements contain powerful, unregulated color additives that can cause a range of severe and potentially irreversible side effects. Understanding these risks is essential for anyone considering their use, especially since regulatory bodies like the FDA have not approved them for tanning.
The Unregulated Nature of Tanning Supplements
Unlike traditional drugs, dietary supplements are not required to undergo rigorous testing for safety or efficacy by the FDA before they hit the market. This lack of oversight means that consumers are often taking unverified and potentially harmful products. For tanning gummies specifically, the primary method for darkening the skin involves ingesting high concentrations of color additives, most commonly canthaxanthin or beta-carotene. While canthaxanthin is approved in small amounts as a food coloring, its high-dose use in tanning products is not. Similarly, high-dose beta-carotene supplementation carries its own set of dangers, especially for certain individuals.
Major Health Consequences of Tanning Gummies
Numerous serious health risks have been linked to the high-dose ingestion of carotenoids found in tanning gummies. These risks extend beyond simple cosmetic issues and can impact major organ systems.
Canthaxanthin Retinopathy
One of the most alarming and well-documented side effects is canthaxanthin retinopathy. This condition occurs when yellow crystalline deposits form in the retina of the eye after long-term ingestion of high levels of canthaxanthin.
- Vision Impairment: Though often asymptomatic at first, the presence of these crystals can lead to blurred vision, night blindness, and other visual disturbances.
- Long-Term Effects: Even after discontinuing use, the crystals can take years to clear from the retina, with deposits persisting for up to seven years in some cases.
Liver Damage
Both canthaxanthin and high-dose beta-carotene can put a significant strain on the liver. The liver is responsible for metabolizing these compounds, and excessive intake can lead to organ damage.
- Carotenoid Buildup: When the liver is overwhelmed by high concentrations of carotenoids, these substances can accumulate in fatty tissue, including within the liver itself.
- Inflammation and Toxicity: An excess of carotenoids has been associated with an increase in alcohol-induced swelling and inflammation, and in some severe cases, can lead to liver toxicity and failure.
Aplastic Anemia
This is a severe and potentially fatal blood disorder that has been linked to canthaxanthin-containing tanning products. Aplastic anemia is a condition in which the body stops producing enough new blood cells. The potential for such a serious outcome, even if rare, provides a strong reason to avoid these unapproved supplements. In 1990, a death from aplastic anemia was reported in a young woman who had ingested canthaxanthin for cosmetic tanning.
Increased Cancer Risk (in Smokers)
For individuals who smoke, high-dose beta-carotene supplements are particularly dangerous. Studies have shown a significant increase in the risk of lung cancer among smokers who take large amounts of supplemental beta-carotene. This is not a risk associated with beta-carotene obtained from food sources, but rather from the high, concentrated doses found in unregulated supplements.
Gastrointestinal Distress
Common and less severe side effects often include gastrointestinal issues, which can occur shortly after beginning the gummies.
- Nausea and stomach cramps.
- Diarrhea.
Unnatural Skin Discoloration
Instead of a natural-looking tan, many users report an unnatural, orange, or reddish-brown tint to their skin. This is a result of the color additives depositing unevenly in the subcutaneous fat and epidermis. Some users also report discoloration on the palms of their hands and the soles of their feet. This staining effect is a far cry from the desired sun-kissed bronze advertised by manufacturers.
Tanning Gummies vs. Safer Tanning Alternatives
Choosing a safer alternative to tanning gummies is crucial for protecting your health. Topical self-tanners, for instance, are regulated and work differently, avoiding the systemic risks of oral supplements.
| Feature | Tanning Gummies (Oral) | Topical Self-Tanners (Creams/Sprays) |
|---|---|---|
| Regulation | Not FDA-approved for tanning; largely unregulated. | FDA-approved for external use; regulated as cosmetics. |
| Mechanism | Ingestion of high-dose color additives (canthaxanthin/beta-carotene) that deposit throughout the body. | Application of dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which reacts with amino acids on the skin's surface. |
| Primary Risks | Severe internal health issues: liver damage, eye damage, aplastic anemia, increased cancer risk in smokers. | Primary risk is uneven application or temporary skin irritation. Avoid inhalation in sprays. |
| Resulting Color | Often an unnatural, yellowish or orange hue. | Customizable color that can be even and natural-looking with proper application. |
| Duration | Requires continuous use to maintain the color; effects can linger for years after discontinuation. | Lasts for several days; fades naturally as the top skin layer sheds. |
| UV Protection | Offers no protection from the sun's damaging UV rays. | Provides no UV protection; sunscreen is still required. |
Conclusion: Prioritizing Health Over an Unsafe Tan
While the appeal of an effortless tan from a gummy is understandable, the severe potential side effects of tanning gummies make them an incredibly risky choice. The lack of FDA approval and the proven links to serious conditions such as canthaxanthin retinopathy, liver damage, and aplastic anemia should not be ignored. Safer, regulated alternatives like topical self-tanners exist for those who want a bronzed look without compromising their health. Ultimately, protecting your body by making informed, health-conscious decisions about the products you consume is far more important than achieving a temporary cosmetic result. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, and remember that no supplement can replace a healthy diet or the protective power of sunscreen.
