Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) is a simple saccharide, often derived from plant sources such as sugar beets and sugar cane, or by the fermentation of glycerin. It is primarily used as an ingredient in sunless tanning products. DHA is a white crystalline powder with a sweet cooling taste and a characteristic odor. It is the simplest of all ketoses and has no chiral center.
DHA was first recognized as a skin coloring agent by German scientists in the 1920s. It was noted as causing the skin surface to turn brown when spilled. In the 1950s, further research was conducted with DHA, and it was found that DHA did not appear to penetrate beyond the stratum corneum, or dead skin surface layer.
In the context of sunless tanning, DHA is the main active ingredient in many sunless tanning skincare preparations. Sunless tanning products contain DHA in concentrations ranging from 1% to 20%. The artificial tan takes 2 to 4 hours to begin appearing on the skin surface, and will continue to darken for 24 to 72 hours, depending on formulation type. Once the darkening effect has occurred, the tan will not sweat off or wash away with soap or water. It will fade gradually over 3 to 10 days.
DHA darkens the skin through a process known as the Maillard reaction. This is a chemical reaction between amino acids and reducing sugars that gives browned food its distinctive flavor. When DHA is applied to the skin, it reacts with the amino acids present in the skin’s dead cells located in the outermost layer, the stratum corneum.
This reaction leads to the production of compounds called melanoidins, which are dark in color. These melanoidins are similar in coloration to melanin, the natural substance in the deeper skin layers which brown or “tan” from exposure to UV rays. However, unlike the melanin produced by exposure to UV radiation, the color change induced by DHA does not involve the skin’s melanocytes or protect against UV radiation.
The color change begins to occur about 2 to 4 hours after application and continues to darken for 24 to 72 hours. This temporary tan typically lasts up to a week and fades as the dead skin cells are naturally exfoliated.
Note that while DHA reacts with dead skin cells, it doesn’t penetrate beyond the stratum corneum. This means that it doesn’t reach the living cells beneath, which is why the tan is temporary and fades as the skin naturally exfoliates.
However, it’s important to note that while DHA is approved by the FDA for external application, it is not approved for areas that can be ingested or inhaled, such as the lips, nose, or around the eyes. Therefore, when using DHA-containing products, it’s crucial to avoid these areas to ensure safety.
A brief guide on how to apply DHA-based tanning products:
1. Preparation: Before applying a DHA-based tanning product, it’s important to prepare your skin. Start by exfoliating your skin with a gentle scrub to remove dead skin cells. This will help ensure an even application and prolong the life of your tan. Pay special attention to areas with thick skin, such as knees, elbows, and ankles.
2. Application: Apply the tanning product in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling any product. Use gloves or a tanning mitt to prevent staining your hands. Apply the product in a circular motion, starting from your legs and working your way up to your torso, arms, and finally your face. Use sparingly around dry areas like knees, elbows, and ankles as these areas can absorb more product and become overly dark.
3. After Application: Once you’ve applied the product, allow it to dry completely before dressing to avoid staining your clothes. Avoid showering, sweating, or getting wet for at least 4-8 hours to allow the DHA to react with your skin and develop the tan.
4. Wash-off: After the recommended time has passed, take a shower to wash off the product. Avoid using harsh soaps or exfoliating your skin. Pat your skin dry instead of rubbing to avoid prematurely fading the tan.
5. Maintenance: To maintain your tan, moisturize your skin daily. This will help prolong the life of your tan and keep your skin looking healthy and glowing. Avoid exfoliating your skin or using products that contain retinol or glycolic acid as these can fade your tan.
Remember, a DHA-induced tan does not provide protection against UV radiation. Always perform a patch test before applying a new product to your entire body to check for any adverse reactions.
Recommended storage conditions and shelf-life for DHA:
Storage Conditions:
- Temperature: DHA should be stored in a cool, dry place. The recommended storage temperature is usually below 25°C (77°F). Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, should be avoided as they can degrade the quality of DHA.
- Light: DHA should be stored in a dark place or in a container that blocks light, as exposure to light can cause DHA to degrade.
- Air: DHA should be stored in a well-sealed container. Exposure to air can cause DHA to oxidize and lose its effectiveness.
- Moisture: DHA should be kept away from moisture. Moisture can cause DHA to clump together and become less effective.
Shelf-Life:
The shelf-life of DHA can vary depending on the specific product and storage conditions. However, DHA generally has a shelf-life of 1 to 2 years when stored properly. After this time, the effectiveness of DHA may decrease.
It’s also important to note that once a DHA-containing product (like a tanning lotion or spray) is opened, it should be used within a certain timeframe, usually 6 to 12 months, to ensure its effectiveness. Always check the product packaging for specific storage instructions and expiration dates.
Why your tanning lotion with DHA might turn greenish …
Lotions containing Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) can turn green under certain circumstances, typically due to oxidation. This can happen when the product is exposed to air over time, especially if the container is not sealed properly.
DHA is a type of sugar that reacts with the amino acids in the dead skin cells on the surface of your skin to produce a tan color. However, when DHA is exposed to air, it can also react with oxygen and undergo oxidation, which can change its color to green.
Another possible reason for a green color change could be the presence of certain additives or ingredients in the lotion that are sensitive to light, heat, or air. For example, some bronzing agents used in tanning lotions can turn green when they degrade.
If your lotion has turned green, it’s best not to use it as the color change could indicate that the product has degraded and may not be effective or safe to use. Always store DHA-containing products according to the manufacturer’s instructions to maintain their quality and effectiveness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) list about Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) in tanning lotions:
1. What is Dihydroxyacetone (DHA)?
Dihydroxyacetone, or DHA, is a simple carbohydrate that is primarily used as an active ingredient in sunless tanning products. It’s often derived from plant sources such as sugar beets and sugar cane, or by the fermentation of glycerin.
2. How does DHA work in tanning lotions?
DHA reacts with the amino acids in the dead skin cells on the outermost layer of your skin, the stratum corneum. This reaction produces a color change in the skin, creating a tanned appearance. The color change begins to occur about 2 to 4 hours after application and continues to darken for 24 to 72 hours.
3. Is DHA safe to use?
DHA is approved by the FDA for external application to the skin. However, it is not approved for use in areas that can be ingested or inhaled, such as the lips, nose, or around the eyes. Therefore, when using DHA-containing products, it’s crucial to avoid these areas to ensure safety.
4. How long does a DHA-induced tan last?
A DHA-induced tan typically lasts up to a week and fades as the dead skin cells are naturally exfoliated.
5. Does a DHA-induced tan protect against UV radiation?
No, the color change induced by DHA does not involve the skin’s melanocytes or protect against UV radiation.
6. Can DHA cause skin irritation?
While DHA is generally safe for use, some people may experience skin irritation or an allergic reaction. It’s always a good idea to do a patch test before applying the product to your entire body.
7. What concentration of DHA is used in tanning products?
Sunless tanning products contain DHA in concentrations ranging from 1% to 20%. Most drugstore products range from 3% to 5%, with professional products ranging from 5% to 20%.
8. Can I use DHA-containing products if I have a skin condition?
If you have a skin condition, it’s best to consult with a healthcare provider before using DHA-containing products. They can provide advice based on your specific situation and needs.
Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) Suppliers
Here are some of the most known manufacturers and suppliers of Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) based on the information available on Alibaba:
- Supplier 1: Offers high-grade DHA in large stock for cosmetic use.
- Supplier 2: Provides DHA powder.
- Supplier 3: Specializes in wholesale cosmetic-grade DHA powder.
- Supplier 4: Stocks 99% DHA.
- Supplier 5: Offers cosmetic-grade DHA powder.
Please note that the links provided will take you to the respective supplier’s page on Alibaba where you can get more information about their products, pricing, and shipping details. Always ensure to verify the credibility of the suppliers and the quality of the products before making a purchase.
Here are some additional suppliers of Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) from the Sigma-Aldrich website:
- Dihydroxyacetone for synthesis
- Dihydroxyacetone Pharmaceutical Secondary Standard; Certified Reference Material
- 1,3-Dihydroxyacetone dimer
- Dihydroxyacetone phosphate hemimagnesium salt hydrate
- Dihydroxyacetone phosphate dilithium salt
- 1,3-DIHYDROXYACETONE DIBENZOATE
- 1,3-Dihydroxyacetone-2-13C dimer
- Dihydroxyacetone phosphate lithium salt
- 1,3-Dihydroxyacetone-1,1,3,3-d4 dimer
Please note that the links provided will take you to the respective supplier’s page on Sigma-Aldrich where you can get more information about their products, pricing, and shipping details. Always ensure to verify the credibility of the suppliers and the quality of the products before making a purchase.
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