The self-tanning substance (makes skin dark without sun exposure) that has been licensed by the FDA around the world is highly safe. which can accelerate the skin to tan without sun exposure Therefore, it is safe from UV light which can be harmful to the skin.

Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) self-tanning agent (Make the skin dark without being exposed to the sun) Licensed by the FDA around the world with high security which can accelerate the skin to tan without sun exposure Therefore, it is safe from UV light which can be harmful to the skin.

DHA is also commonly used in make-up products to help darker make-up colors last longer, as DHA darkens the skin in specific areas of use, for example a tint that lasts for several days.

DHA cannot be combined with any of the Amino Acids in the formulation because it will react with each other. and loss of efficiency

The action of DHA is caused by stimulation. Millard Reaction darken the skin (which gives a temporary effect When the process is stopped for a while The skin tone will return to its original tone. by occasional use will make the skin color darker for a period of approximately 7 days on average. This period depends on the skin of the individual.)

DHA is synthesized by converting Glycerol to Glycerone (also known as DHA) by fermentation with lactic bacteria.

The use of DHA in the formulation must take into account its stability as DHA will deteriorate. when heated From the experiment, it was found that heat at 40 degrees onwards will accelerate the degradation of DHA quickly.  

DHA is most stable at a pH of 4.0, deteriorating faster. As the pH of the formula increases, the formula should have a pH of 4.0, which is optimal for DHA.

Formulation recommendations that use DHA to act as a tanning agent:

- use Ethoxydiglycol   Helps to bring more DHA into the skin. can clearly help to achieve higher efficiency by using Ethoxydiglycol at 5-10% level in any formulation to help carry DHA

- Should use DHA together with EasyTan™ to help increase efficiency and reduce dry skin caused by DHA

- DHA will give a brown tone on the skin. compare with EasyTan™ will give a black tone

- should be used in conjunction with Reservoir-Tech   with Test/experimental results confirm that it helps the Self-Tanning formula to be more effective.

- The formula should be pH 3-5.5, should not have a higher pH.

- Avoid using all kinds of oxides such as Iron Oxides, Titanium Dioxides, Zinc Oxides.

- Do not use pH buffers containing phosphates.

- Do not contain any kind of amine such as Amino Acids, Peptides, Protein.

- Do not contain AHA, BHA, or hydroxy acids of any kind.

- Do not contain oxidizing agents in the formula.

- Always use ActiveProtec OX 1% in formulations.

- Avoid heat in the mixing process or add DHA in the final step. at high temperature, reduce to no more than 40C

- Choose a Thickener / Gel Maker that is electrolyte resistant such as Xanthan Gum, ThixoGel or a non-ionic thicker such as HEC.

Self-Tanning Gel Formula Example

Water 87%

Ethoxydiglycol 3% (or Dimethyl Isosorbide (DMI) ) improves formula efficiency

DHA 3.5%

Reservoir-Tech 3% *Test/experimental results confirm that it helps the Self-Tanning formula to be more effective*

EasyTan™ 1.5%

Pro Polymer 1%

Mild Preserved Eco 1%

Procedure: Mix all parts together and add Pro Polymer, blend until gel is dissolved.

Warning: DHA It doesn't have the ability to block any UV light, going out in the sun must still be used. Sunscreen To help protect the skin from UV light, which is harmful to the skin.

Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) is easily deteriorated. if exposed to moisture Please store in a moisture-free environment.

Use: Can be used in self-tanning formulas.

Mixing method: mix in water (water-phase) or fill in the last step Blend until completely dispersed in the recipe. Avoid heat above 40 degrees. The formula does not contain any Amino Acids, which will react with DHA and render it ineffective.

Usage rate: 3-10% for all over skin for self-tanning formulas and 3-10% for specific areas such as eyebrows.

Product characteristics: white powder Easy to humid, prohibited by humidity.

Solubility: can dissolve in water

Storage: Can be stored in a cool place (1-10 degrees), prohibited by humidity. Close the bottle cap tightly. and protected from sunlight or heat, the product has a shelf life of at least 2 years !!Forbidden by humidity!!

INCI Name : Dihydroxyacetone  

Examples of products that use DHA to help accelerate tan.

Paula's Choice Sun 365 Self-Tanning Concentrate

MiSSHA 7 Days Tinted Eyebrow (make your brows darker for up to 7 days by working with DHA)

CLINIQUE Self Sun Body Tinted Lotion

L'OREAL Sublime Bronze Tanning Gel for Face and Body

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Cream-Gel Self-Tanner