What it is
Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) is a color additive, used in self-tanning products, often derived from plants such as sugar cane.
What it does
Dihydroxyacetone imparts a brownish color to the human body by reacting with the amino acid in the upper layers of the skin.
In addition, it reduces flaking and restores suppleness, thus improving the appearance of dry or damaged skin.
Side effects
A 2007 study shows that sun exposure in the 24 hours following the application of a self-tanner containing this ingredient makes skin more susceptible to free-radical damage. So, to minimize this risk, always wear sunscreen and use an antioxidant moisturizer.
While topical application of the ingredient is safe as DHA only interacts with the upper layers of the skin, which are dead, there is no scientific data about the safety of spray tanning booths. This means that we don’t know for sure that they pose any healthy risk, but we don’t also know that they don’t. So, before using spray tanning booths, make sure that your eyes, lips and mouth are completely covered to prevent inhaling or ingesting the product.
In addition, DHA provides some UV protection, but not broad spectrum and short-lived, so you should always still use a sunscreen.
Contact dermatitis caused by DHA is rare, but can occur.
{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
Good to know cause I like to self tan!
I’m glad you find this useful Lydia
Hi
I am trying to find the article or study that ismentioned in this blog with regard to #8 on the top 10 list.
Could you be so kind as to let us know the direct link to this study?
Warm Regards
Kathy
Hello Kathy,
I guess you are referring to the study about free radical damages, right? Here’s the link to the study:
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science?_ob=ArticleURL&_udi=B6VNG-4PW05KM-1&_user=10&_rdoc=1&_fmt=&_orig=search&_sort=d&view=c&_acct=C000050221&_version=1&_urlVersion=0&_userid=10&md5=6c335211284d08a3cd91d5d0ab53fc1a
Another thing to take into consideration, is that some people don’t think they have to use sunscreen when using a self-tanner products. But self-tanners don’t protect from UV rays which cause radical damages too, so you should always use a sunscreen anyway.
Some sunscreens contain chemical ingredients that can cause free radicals as well. So, if you’re worried about free radical damage, make sure you use a sunscreen that don’t contain these ingredients.
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