The Potential Risks of DHA in Self Tanners
Self tanning products have become increasingly popular over the years as many people aim to achieve a glowing, bronzed look without exposing their skin to harmful UV rays. Traditional self tanning lotions and sprays use an ingredient called dihydroxyacetone (DHA) to react with the amino acids on the skin's surface and produce color change that resembles a tan.
While considered safe for external use, some research has raised questions regarding potential health implications of DHA. As consumer demand grows for safer, more natural products, there has been increased interest in self tanners that use alternative methods to produce color change without DHA.
How DHA Works in Self Tanners
When DHA, derived from plant sources like sugar beets and sugar cane, is applied to the skin, it causes a chemical reaction with the amino acids on the outer layer of skin. This reaction produces color change in the form of brown pigments called melanoidins that allow the skin to appear tan.
The degree of color change depends on the concentration of DHA as well as each individual's skin properties. Color development occurs gradually over 24-72 hours as the reaction process completes and the skin naturally exfoliates off the colored cellular debris.
Questions Over DHA Safety
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved DHA as a color additive for external application to the skin and concluded that DHA is safe when used under proper conditions. However, some studies have raised questions regarding the safety of DHA.
One area of concern is whether DHA is fully removed from the skin through washing or exfoliation. Some research has detected evidence of DHA absorption into the outer layers of skin over time after repeated use.
There is also uncertainty regarding health implications of exposure to DHA breakdown products called diketones. One diketone generated as DHA degrades, diacetyl, has been linked to increased respiratory issues when inhaled in high doses.
Choosing a Self Tanner Free From DHA
If you are concerned about potential health impacts from DHA exposure but still wish to self tan safely, you may opt to use products that create the appearance of a tan through alternative methods not reliant on DHA.
Natural Ingredient Self Tanners
Some newer self tanning options derive color solely from natural plant-based pigments and extracts. Ingredients like black tea, coffee, turmeric, beet powder, caramel, and annatto seed have subtle staining properties that can gradually add light color to skin.
Natural self tanning products avoid the chemical reaction process of DHA to generate color change. Since they simply coat the skin with plant-derived pigments through a carrier base like aloe vera gel, washes off the skin more readily through natural exfoliation.
Gradual Color Building Formulas
Due to the gentle subtle color effects of natural plant extracts, many DHA-free self tanners are formulated as gradual self tanners. They are designed for daily application to slowly build glowing color rather than immediate dramatic darkening like chemical self tanners.
Gradual self tanners utilize lower concentrations of pigments spread across lighter moisturizing bases. The gradual build of color reduces likelihood of uneven application issues compared to fast-acting bronzers.
Washes and Drops for Customizable Color
For versatile customizable color development, some natural self tanners come in the form of add-in drops or washes. The drops may be mixed into your regular moisturizers allowing control over the depth of color achieved.
Self tan washes are applied by directly spraying or rinsing over skin to reach the desired level of color intensity after repeating applications. Both drops and washes allow flexibility in usage for light sun-kissed glows or deeper tan tones.
Other Considerations for Safer Self Tanning
When searching for safer DHA-free self tanning alternatives, also evaluate options based on the following considerations:
Ingredient Transparency
Seeking out clean, non-toxic formulas free from questionable chemical additives is advised for sensitive skin types. Transparent brands that fully disclose ingredients allow better assessment of potential irritation risks.
Eco-Conscious Sourcing
Sustainably harvesting natural pigment sources without depletion of resources should factor into brand selection. Fair trade ethically sourced ingredients provide further assurance of responsible production.
Reputable Third Party Testing
Verification of non-toxic hypoallergenic formulas through independent third party testing offers credence to natural self tanning claims. This provides added peace of mind regarding product safety.
With safer natural ingredient technology advancing, self tanners no longer necessitate DHA and its unresolved health impact questions. Taking some time to understand different modern options available empowers conscious self tanning choices to achieve your desired sun-kissed glow.
FAQs
Is DHA completely safe for use in self tanners?
While the FDA has approved DHA for external use in self tanners, some studies have raised concerns about absorption into skin over time and potential respiratory issues from breakdown products like diacetyl.
How do natural self tanners work?
Natural self tanners use plant-based pigments like carotenoids and melanin from ingredients like black tea, coffee, turmeric and beet extract to stain skin instead of causing a chemical color change.
What are the benefits of gradual self tanners?
Gradual self tanners with lower concentrations of natural pigments allow color to build slowly over multiple applications, reducing likelihood of uneven coverage and enabling customizable color depth.
Should I do a patch test before using natural self tanners?
Yes, it's advisable to first test any new self tanning products on a small skin area to check for potential reactions before wider application regardless of natural ingredient claims.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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