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Dihydroxyacetone

What: Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) is derived from sugar beets or cane sugar and is a key active ingredient for natural self-tanners. The skin-browning effect is the result of a nontoxic chemical reaction between DHA and the amino acids which are part of the keratinous layer of the skin’s surface, much like the browning effect in food caramelization. The resulting color is called melanoidins, similar in color to the melanins our bodies produce naturally when exposed to UV rays.

DHA creates a more naturally-looking tan, and fades more evenly, than chemical tanners and is now considered the most effective sunless tanning ingredient. It is also considered the safest form of tanning over chemically-derived self-tanners and sun exposure. The tan produced by DHA takes approximately 2-4 hours to appear on skin and will not wash away due to sweat, water, or soap. The tan will fade gradually over the course of 3-10 days. (Wiki)

Origin: Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) is obtained by the fermentation of certain sugars, like sugar cane and beet sugars.

Products Found In:Sunless tanner sprays, lotions, gels, mousses, and cosmetic wipes.

Toxicity: Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) is generally classified as being a low to moderate hazard depending on product usage and how the DHA is sourced. All DHA in tanners on this site are naturally sourced.

DHA has been approved for cosmetic use by the FDA, the Canadian Health Ministry, and most of the EU member nations. DHA-based sunless tanning has been recommended by The Skin Cancer Foundation, American Academy of Dermatology Association, Canadian Dermatology Association and the American Medical Association.