A self-tanning sugar. It tints the top skin layer without sun for a temporary tan. Well tolerated, fades as skin renews.
Topical application
BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations.
A self-tanner. Safe; color is temporary.
Dihydroxyacetone (INCI: Dihydroxyacetone), or DHA, is a simple sugar that works as a self-tanner. It reacts with the amino acids in the outermost skin layer through the Maillard reaction and forms a brown pigment that gives a temporary tan without sun. Here there is a proven effect: DHA is the most studied and effective tanning active for self-tan, with results showing within a few hours. It matters to understand that the color is cosmetic and offers no real sun protection, so sunscreen is still essential. Topically the systemic uptake is very low, so it can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Tolerance is high: low irritation potential and low allergy risk. The color fades naturally with skin renewal over a few days. It is best not to inhale DHA spray products, a usual precaution for the aerosol format.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
SafeSuitable for
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Dihydroxyacetone is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Dihydroxyacetone suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
A self-tanning sugar.
The INCI name is Dihydroxyacetone. It may also appear as: Дигидроксиацетон, DHA.
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