Safety of chemical used in spray tanning in question

CINCINNATI - For the last few years all we've been hearing is go for the spray tan if you really want to look bronzed and protect your skin from UV rays. Now, the safety of the chemicals used in the spray tans are under investigation.

An ABC investigation found that the sprays contain a chemical called dihydroxyacetone (DHA), that has been shown in studies to cause genetic mutations

Experts say these compounds could promote the development of cancer or malignancies.

Researchers are calling for more research on spray tanning. There have been no tests conducted on humans yet.

The Food and Drug Administration approved DHA for use in tanning lotions, but it has not approved it for use in spray tans.

There is also a concern about DHA causing lung cancer if it is inhaled.

Experts stress it is very important to protect your eyes, mouth and nose so you do not inhale DHA when you are getting a spray tan.

For more on ABC's Report, click here.