EWG Safety Score
What Is Dihydroxyacetone?
Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) is an ingredient that affects the color of skin and that is present in most self-tanners. Derived from sugar, it reacts with amino acids found in the top layers of skin to create a shade of brown; the effect takes place within two to six hours and it can build color depth with every reapplication. It has a long history of safe use when applied topically to skin, where it affects only the uppermost layers. Dihydroxyacetone doesn’t pose a health risk to skin.
Benefits for Your Skin
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, May 2004, issue 5, pages 706-713 [https://www.jaad.org/article/S0190-9622(03)04529-8/abstract]
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