Understanding Your Self-Tanning Gel

The self-tanning gel you are using, which contains DHA (Dihydroxyacetone) and EasyTan™ (Erythrulose), works by creating a temporary color change on the outermost layer of your skin (the epidermis).

Here's why the color washes off and doesn't become a permanent "real" tan:

• Temporary Reaction: DHA and Erythrulose react with the amino acids present in the dead skin cells on the surface of your epidermis. This reaction produces brown pigments called melanoidins.
• Surface Level: The color is only on these surface skin cells. It does not affect the melanin production in the deeper layers of your skin, which is how a natural sun tan works.
• Skin Exfoliation: Your skin naturally sheds these dead cells over time. Washing, scrubbing, and even just daily activities accelerate this natural exfoliation process.

Therefore, the color you see is on cells that are constantly being replaced. When you shower, you are removing some of these colored cells, causing the tan to appear to wash off.

This type of self-tan is not permanent and will not turn into a "real" or lasting change in your skin color. The duration mentioned in product descriptions (like 7 days for DHA or 2-10 days for EasyTan™) refers to how long the color might last if left undisturbed, but daily washing will remove the developed color.

To maintain the tan, you need to reapply the product regularly as the colored skin cells are shed.