Self-Tanning Gel Formulation and Clogged Pore Treatment

Subject: Re: Tanning and Clogged Pores

Hello,

Thank you for your questions regarding the self-tanning formula and clogged pore treatment.

1. Self-Tanning Gel

Based on the formula you provided (Water, Ethoxydiglycol, DHA 3.5%, EasyTan™ 1.5%, Pro Polymer, Mild Preserved Eco), this is indeed a gradual self-tanner. It works by reacting with amino acids in the dead layer of skin cells (stratum corneum) to create a temporary color change, not by affecting your natural skin pigment from within. The color develops over several hours and fades as the skin naturally exfoliates, typically lasting a few days to a week. It is not a wash-off makeup.

Regarding scrubbing, you can scrub your skin normally. However, since self-tanners color the dead skin cells, exfoliation will cause the tan to fade faster. Regular, gentle exfoliation before application can help achieve a more even tan.

You mentioned a forum post where the results weren't very noticeable with the first formula. The intensity and speed of the tan depend on the concentration of the active ingredients, DHA and Erythrulose (EasyTan™), and how well they penetrate the skin.

You also referred to another formula from the forum (DHA 10%, Reservoir-Tech 5%, Aloe Vera Gel 85%). Your understanding of this formula seems correct: it's a leave-on product, the color develops in about 3 hours, lasts around 5 days, and can be reapplied. The inclusion of Reservoir-Tech helps the self-tanning ingredients stay on the skin longer, contributing to the tan's duration.

Regarding increasing DHA and EasyTan™:

• In the first formula (DHA 3.5%, EasyTan™ 1.5%), increasing the concentration of DHA (e.g., to 5-10%) and EasyTan™ (e.g., to 5%) would generally lead to a faster and more intense tan. However, using very high concentrations, especially of DHA (above 10-15%), can sometimes result in an unnatural orange tone or streaks. EasyTan™ (Erythrulose) typically works slower than DHA but can produce a more natural-looking color and help reduce streaks when used in combination. A common combined concentration for a noticeable tan might be 5-10% total of DHA + Erythrulose, with DHA usually being the higher percentage. Your proposed increase is significant and would likely give a more noticeable result faster than the original formula.
• Adding EasyTan™ to the second formula (DHA 10%, Reservoir-Tech 5%, Aloe Vera Gel 85%) as discussed in the staff reply, will make the tan appear faster and potentially darker, but it will not significantly increase how long the tan lasts. The longevity is primarily influenced by Reservoir-Tech and the skin's natural exfoliation rate.

For application frequency to get a tan quickly, you could apply the gel daily, perhaps once or twice a day, until you reach your desired color. Once you have the desired shade, you can reduce the frequency to every few days or as needed to maintain the color.

2. Clogged Pores

You are currently using Differin (adapalene) for clogged pores and are considering switching to a BHA (Salicylic Acid) formula.

As the staff reply suggested, if Differin is working well for you, it is generally recommended to continue using it. Differin is a prescription-strength retinoid specifically effective for treating acne, including clogged pores, by promoting cell turnover and preventing follicles from becoming clogged. BHA (Salicylic Acid) is also effective for exfoliation and unclogging pores, but its effectiveness can vary depending on the individual and the specific type of clogged pore. If Differin is providing good results, switching might lead to a less effective treatment for you. If Differin is not working well enough, then trying the BHA formula you mentioned (with the addition of 1% Pro Polymer as recommended by staff for texture and stability) could be an option.

Regarding using Differin and light: Differin, like other retinoids, can increase your skin's sensitivity to sunlight (UV radiation). This is why it's typically recommended for nighttime use, and daily sunscreen is crucial when using it. However, normal indoor lighting (like from lamps for reading) does not emit significant amounts of UV radiation and will not cause your skin to "burn" or be damaged just by being exposed after applying Differin. The concern is primarily with sun exposure. So, you can safely read under normal lights after applying Differin; just ensure you use adequate sun protection during the day.

Hope this helps clarify your questions!