From Spray Tans to Peptides: The Rise of Tanning Without UV Exposure

The Trend: Lots of us love the look of a tan, but not the skin damage and risk of cancer that can come with it. For Gen Z especially, tanning is back, but so is the desire to get that bronzed look without the UV exposure. That may help explain the rise of sunless tanning techniques, from classic lotions and spray tans, to peptides that claim to stimulate pigment-producing cells.

What People Are Saying: Experts say spray tanning is experiencing a boom — and it’s getting more popular among men. They’re certainly safer for your skin than the sun’s rays, but they can also come with a hefty price tag (sometimes running around $500 a session), and often don’t last more than a few days.

Another sunless trend? The “Barbie peptide,” which is an injectable called melanotan II that can darken your skin without UV exposure. Fans claim it can give you a tan “from the inside out,” but it’s still unregulated, under-researched, and can cause unpleasant (and dangerous) side effects.  

What to Know: Sun exposure is a major cause of premature skin aging — the exact opposite of the youthful glow many tanning fans are trying to achieve. So if you’re set on being tan, a spray tan or sunless tanning lotion — plus ample sunscreen — is still your best bet.