How safe is self-tanner?
Het Nieuwsblad, 12 May 2026
Is self-tanner healthy and why does it smell like that? Dr Griet Voet explains in Het Nieuwsblad how it works and how to use it safely.
In Het Nieuwsblad, Dr Griet Voet calls self-tanner the least harmful way to get colour: the product only acts on the top layer of the skin and carries no risk of skin cancer or ageing. It does not, however, protect against UV radiation, so sunscreen is still needed.
She explains how substances such as DHA and erythrulose react with the dead cells of the epidermis, which also accounts for the typical smell. People with allergies, eczema, acne or psoriasis should proceed with caution and test on a small area first.
Dr Voet advises buying self-tanner at the pharmacy, using a separate product for the face and applying it in a thin, even layer, not right after shaving.
Key advice
Self-tanner does not protect against the sun: keep using sunscreen.
Test a new product on a small patch of skin first, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Preferably choose a pharmacy product and a separate formula for the face.
Apply a thin layer, from the bottom up, and not right after shaving.
“Mind you: it offers no protection against UV rays, so sunscreen remains a must.” — Dr Griet Voet