| Frequently Asked Questions |
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What is dihydroxyacetone or DHA as it is commonly known?
Dihydroxyacetone is an ingredient derived from sugar beets and sugar cane through a fermentation process. We receive our DHA in a white crystalline form which is then formulated into a variety of products.
When was DHA discovered?
DHA as a skin coloring agent was discovered in the 1920's by German scientists. In the 1950's it was given orally to children that had glycerin storage disease. Health workers treating the children noted a brown staining or tanning on the chins of the children from spillage.
How does self tanning work?
The skin browning effect of dihydroxyacetone is non-toxic and comes from a Maillard reaction. It is more commonly seen in the food preparation industry, and was described in 1912 by Louis-Camille Maillard. DHA reacts chemically with the amino acid groups, which are part of the protein containing keratin layer on the skin surface. Various amino acids react differently to DHA, producing different tones of coloration from yellow to brown. The resulting pigments are called melanoidins. These are similar in coloration to melanin, the natural substance in the deeper skin layers which brown or "tan", from exposure to UV rays.
Is DHA safe?
Dihydroxyacetone has been used for many years and has not been connected with any health problems. Dihydroxyacetone is approved by FDA as an external skin coloring agent. The FDA does recommend that the products not be spray on mucous membranes, in the eyes or inhaled.
Do DHA solutions have a shelf life?
Yes they do. The DHA molecule will break down over time although this can be slowed through proper storage. We have talked with our supplier of DHA about stablization of the molecule. The response was that it is possible but it would cease to work as a sunless tanner. As such, it is unfortunately something we will need to live with. Ongoing exposure to high temperatures (over 80), light or frequent exposure to air reduces shelf life. We recommend to our clients to purchase for needs in the next four months to ensure the best results for their clients. Some solutions hold up better than others. It is quite possible that a solution could be fine at 12 months but this would be the exception.
Is Biddiscombe's DHA organic?
Yes, we use the only certified organic DHA available worldwide. Additionally, ReVive Organics' HONEY and NUTMEG solutions contain over 95% organic ingredients and are 100% natural.
What is the cometic or guide color in a tinted sunless solution?
When a DHA solution is formulated it comes out as a "clear" solution. FDA approved colors are then added to give tint to the solution. The tint serves a number of purposes. It provides the instant tanned look that most clients seek and it allows the technician to clearly see where they have sprayed and gauge how much solution has been applied to ensure consistency of application. The cosmetic color washes off in the shower. We match our cosmetic guide color with the sunless tan that will emerge.
How much DHA should be used normally per application?
Generally around 2 ounces for an average sized person. Very experienced technicians use a little more than 1.5 ounces for the same sized person. Spraying a distance of 5 to 7 inches and at lower pressures reduce usage and overspray.
What is the ideal percent of DHA?
The ideal percent of DHA is very dependant on the skin type of the client and also the amount of established color. For very fair skinned individuals 8 or 9% DHA will be about right or a light application of a 10% DHA solution. For individuals with darker complexions or an existing tan, we have found that a solution like our Fuzion at slightly over 11% is prefect. Using Fuzion on a fair skinned person can lead to orangy results. We have also found that going to 12% DHA leaves very little room for error - overspraying and thus orangy results are too often the outcome. Be careful with high DHA percentage solutions.
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