
Before getting your spray tan done, you might be worried about the component, what is DHA in spray tan? Is it safe?
Di-hydroxy-acetone (DHA) is responsible for the deep, luscious color infused into tans! Slathered on like makeup, it achieves its stunning appearance through a combination of sugar and beets, providing a shiny and flawless glow without any sun.
But bear in mind, it’s all fun and games until there’s no breathing involved during application. That’s right, spraying on the tan is quite the affair, but if done properly, expect to glow like a goddess.
To be extra careful and to keep you updated, we have everything related to this right here. Keep on reading!
What Is DHA in Spray Tan? Everything You Need to Know
Dihydroxyacetone is a sugar compound that occurs in nature. It serves as the main component in spray tan formulas. People extract it from sugarcane or beet sugar.
DHA offers a safe and effective way to tan without UV exposure. It works to create a short-term tanned look by interacting with the skin’s top layer.
DHA impacts amino acids in dead skin cells on the epidermis when applied. This chemical process called the Maillard reaction, leads to the creation of pigments known as melanoidins.
These pigments give the skin a brown or golden shade. Unlike UV tanning, DHA doesn’t boost melanin production or reach deeper skin layers. This makes it a safe option to get a tan.
The tan’s depth depends on how much DHA is in the solution, more DHA results in a darker tan. DHA is a go-to choice for sunless tanning because it’s non-invasive and allows for a custom tan.
Salons and at-home tanning products use it a lot. It provides a quick and efficient way to achieve a natural-looking tan without risking sun damage or early skin aging.
What Is DHA In Fake Tan: How Does It Work?
DHA on the skin starts a chemical reaction with amino acids in the top layer of dead skin cells. This reaction, called the Maillard reaction, also browns food during cooking, but it happens on the skin. It creates brown melanoidins, which darken the skin for a short time and make it look tanned.
The tan’s depth and shade depend on the skin’s natural makeup, the amount of DHA in the spray tan solution, and how well it’s put on. Less DHA leads to light tans, while more DHA gives deeper, richer color.
DHA tans start to show up 2 to 4 hours after you put them on, and they reach their full color in 12 to 24 hours. This slow change allows people to watch their tan develop. The tan stays for 5 to 10 days, fading as dead skin cells fall off. To make the tan last longer, moisturize and avoid scrubbing your skin.
People like DHA spray tans because they give an even, sun-kissed look without exposing skin to harmful UV rays.
Is DHA in Spray Tan Safe?
DHA has FDA approval for safe use on skin in cosmetics. It doesn’t go deeper than the skin’s outer layer, which limits how much the body absorbs. Still, you should be careful not to breathe in the spray or get it on sensitive areas when you apply it.
To stay safe, it’s best to use well-known products and get help from professionals. While it’s uncommon, some people might get a bit itchy or have an allergy, so it’s wise to test it on a small skin patch first.
DHA is a top pick for fake tans because it’s so safe. It allows you to get a tan without the risks associated with UV rays, such as skin cancer or looking older too soon.
Some oppose the use of inhaled DHA bracing for the concern that large quantities can be harmful. Some studies suggest the repeated inhalation of DHA may risk the user’s respiratory health.
To limit this risk, complimentary excess ventilation should be ensured during the application, or use a lotion/mousse rather than an aerosol spray.
In general, the use of spray tan DHA is considered permissible for healthy individuals, provided sensitive skin, skin reactions, or safety measures related to inhalation are kept in mind.
Is DHA in Spray Tan Safe During Pregnancy?
DHA has a reputation for safety when used on the skin during pregnancy. It doesn’t go deeper than the outer skin layer. But you should steer clear of breathing it in during spray tan sessions.
The pregnancy safety of spray tan heavily relies on the ingredient DHA, which stands for dihydroxyacetone. DHA spray tan ingredients are safe to use topically while pregnant. This is due to DHA’s limited penetration within the skin. It only affects the outer skin cell layer.
However, consulting your healthcare provider before the use of any tanning products is always a good idea. Some women avoid using spray tans during pregnancy to steer clear of chemicals. But, the risks posed by DHA are quite minimal, especially when used in well-ventilated areas.
The chemical is safe for most skin types, but during pregnancy, some women may experience changes to their skin. Throughout pregnancy, the way skin products affect a person’s skin tends to be altered due to shifts in hormones. Some women have reported experiencing allergies or irritation. Always patch test for a spray tan before using it to avoid these kinds of issues.
We don’t know much about what happens when DHA enters the lungs. To reduce possible dangers, you can get a pro to do it in a well-aired space or put on at-home products by hand.
If you’re pregnant, you should check with your doctor before getting a spray tan. This is true if you have skin that acts up or other worries. These methods can let you keep a sun-kissed look while you’re expecting.
What Are the Benefits of DHA in Spray Tan?
Let’s now talk about the beautiful benefits these products give you for the effortless tan you love!
It’s a Safe Alternative!
DHA impacts removing the need to expose yourself to harmful UV rays, which cuts down on the chances of getting skin cancer and aging too fast.
Unlike getting a tan the old way, it gives you a sun-kissed look without hurting your skin. This makes spray tans with DHA a great pick for a bronze look while keeping your skin healthy and safe in the long run.
You Can Customize the Tan Intensity
Spray tan mixes with DHA come in different strengths, so you can get a light glow or a deep tan based on your liking.
Professionals can adjust how they put it on to match different skin tones, creating looks that seem natural. This means everyone can enjoy a tan that fits their skin color just right.
Quick Results
Spray tans with DHA show results in just a few hours, with the full tan showing up in 12 to 24 hours.
This quick process makes them perfect for events or trips you didn’t plan. Compared to spending hours in the sun or tanning beds, DHA tans save time but still give you results you’ll love.
Evens Out Skin Tone
Tanning solutions with DHA help hide skin flaws, including uneven color, scars, and spots. The tan gives a smooth even tone that makes your skin look better overall.
This means spray tans are a great choice to get a flawless look without needing to use lots of makeup or go through tough procedures.
Temporary and Can be Reversed, too!
Spray tans with DHA fade as the skin sheds dead cells, lasting 5 to 10 days. This short-term effect lets people try different looks or tan levels without committing long-term.
It works well for special events or those who like to tan with the seasons without permanent changes.
It Can Also Hydrate the Skin
Many DHA products have moisturizing ingredients like aloe vera and glycerin, which keep skin hydrated during tanning. These extras leave skin soft and smooth, avoiding the dryness often linked to other tanning methods.
DHA solutions often mix beauty with skin health, making them do double duty as a beauty treatment.
Eco-Friendly Option
DHA comes from renewable plants like sugarcane or beets, which makes it a green choice. Many tanning brands stress sustainability by using biodegradable packaging and organic ingredients.
Picking DHA products fits with eco-friendly habits, letting users get a bronze glow while helping to protect the environment.
Pre-Tan Skin Preparation Tips
Who doesn’t want a smooth and sleek tan? Well, before you chase those dreams, it is important to prepare your skin for it. Here are our tips!
Exfoliate!
To prepare for tanning, scrub your skin 24 hours before to remove dead cells. This creates a smooth surface for even application and helps the tan last longer. Use a mild scrub or exfoliating mitt focusing on rough spots like elbows, knees, and ankles.
Wax/Shave in Advance
Get rid of hair at least a day before you apply the tan to prevent irritation. Smooth skin helps the tanning gel stick better and prevents it from looking patchy. Apply lotion after you remove the hair to make your skin feel better and prevent it from drying out.
Avoid Any Oil-Based Products
Don’t use oily lotions or body washes before you tan, as they can prevent the DHA from soaking in. Instead, use light, water-based products to moisten your skin without affecting the tanning process.
Moisturize the Dry Patches
Put a thin coat of lotion on dry spots like your elbows, knees, and heels before you tan. This stops too much of the tanning stuff from soaking in, making these areas look darker and uneven.
Stay Dry
Make sure your skin is clean and dry before you apply the tan. Don’t use perfumes, deodorants, or makeup, as they might react with DHA or lead to streaks. A clean skin surface helps to create a perfect tan.
Wear Loose Clothing
Once you’ve tanned, put on loose dark clothes to stop the solution from rubbing off or smudging. Tight clothes can cause streaks or uneven results, so pick fabrics that breathe and allow the tan to set properly.
Aftercare for Best Results
Once you’ve got the tan, you want to give it a few days to strive, right? Well, with our tips below, you make that tan last for longer and stay away from any complications.
Avoid Any Exfoliation
Refrain from exfoliating your skin for at least a week after your spray tan. Exfoliation removes dead skin cells, which can cause your tan to fade prematurely.
Avoid scrubs, loofahs, or chemical exfoliants to preserve your tan’s evenness. Gentle cleansing ensures your tan lasts longer and looks consistent.
Pat Skin Dry
After showering, pat your skin dry with a towel instead of rubbing it. Rubbing can cause the tan to streak or wear off unevenly, especially in delicate areas.
Patting helps retain the tan while preventing unnecessary friction that can disrupt the application of DHA on the skin.
Away From the Pool, Please!
Chlorinated water, such as in pools and hot tubs, can cause your spray tan to fade unevenly. Minimize swimming or prolonged exposure to chlorine to preserve the tan’s integrity.
If swimming is unavoidable, rinse your skin immediately afterward to remove chlorine and reduce its effects on your tan.
Wait Before Showering
After you spray tan, wait at least 6 to 8 hours to shower. This gives the DHA time to develop and get darker. Avoid sweating or water exposure during this period to prevent streaking.
When showering, use lukewarm water and gentle soap to maintain the tan’s even finish.
Moisturize Daily
Hydration is crucial for prolonging your tan. Apply an oil-free moisturizer daily to keep your skin smooth and supple. Dry skin causes the tan to fade unevenly, so focus on areas prone to dryness, like elbows and knees. Proper hydration helps maintain a uniform tan and prevents patchy fading.
Potential Side Effects of DHA in Spray Tan
If you’re a newbie to the tanning world, it is always a good practice to know the potential risks for your experience. Read on to be mindful of your choices!
Skin Irritation
Mild irritation, such as redness or itching, can occur after using DHA-based spray tans. This is often due to sensitivity to DHA or another additive, such as preservatives.
Patch testing before application helps to know any potential reactions. Using products formulated for sensitive skin minimizes the risk of discomfort or adverse effects.
Allergic Reactions
Rare allergic responses to spray tan solutions may cause rashes, swelling, or discomfort. These reactions are often linked to fragrances or other non-DHA ingredients in the product.
Get a product that is fragrance-free and hypoallergenic and consult a dermatologist before use to ensure safety, especially for those with preexisting skin allergies.
Can Cause Fading
As spray tans naturally fade with skin cell shedding, some areas, such as knees or elbows, may fade unevenly. This is often due to friction or dryness.
Regular moisturizing and exfoliation before the application can prevent patchy results, giving an uneven tan or patches.
Staining
DHA may temporarily stain clothing, bedsheets, or towels while the tan develops. This is especially true for lighter fabrics. So, wearing loose, dark clothing immediately after tanning and avoiding direct contact with your precious pieces during drying can decrease the impact of the stain.
If you get any stains, please wash them immediately as they tend to be water-soluble!
Breeding Dry Skin
Some people experience dryness after spray tans, notably if the product lacks hydrating agents. Dehydration can accentuate flakiness, making the tan appear uneven and patchy.
To avoid this from happening to your precious tan, apply oil-free moisturizer daily after tanning but don’t go overboard with it! Also, get products with aloe, glycerin, or ceramides to maintain smooth, hydrated skin.
Inhalation Risks
Inhaling spray tan particles during application may irritate the respiratory tract. This risk increases in poorly ventilated areas. Keep a nose filter mask around to have proper airflow during application.
Professional salons may have ventilation systems to reduce this impact and
protect their clients from inhalation. No choking in this household!
How to Minimize Risks?
You should follow the proper steps before, during, and after getting a spray tan to reduce DHA risks. To start, pick top-notch spray tan products from trusted brands. Go for ones that say they’re hypoallergenic and have no parabens or scents. These are less likely to bug your skin or cause allergies.
Before you put it on, do a patch test. Put a tiny bit on a hidden part of your skin. This helps you see if you might react to DHA or anything in the formula.
Also, scrub your skin the day before to remove dead skin. This makes your skin smooth for the tan and helps it go on. When you’re putting it on, don’t breathe in the spray.
Wear a mask or put something in your nose to block it. Do it in a place with lots of fresh air or go to a salon with good airflow. Put lip balm or eye covers on sensitive spots like your lips and eyes. After putting it on, use lotion daily to keep your skin moist and stop the tan from fading in patches.
Stay away from chlorine, don’t sweat a lot, and don’t scrub your skin. These can make your tan fade too fast or unevenly. If you do all this, you can ensure your spray tan is safe, works well, and looks great for a long time.
Bottom Line
To summarize, as you know about what is DHA in spray tan, you should remember some safe tips. Although it is quite non-toxic, skin type compatibility patches should be conducted, along with avoiding the hyperbaric chamber inhalation of the spray. With such simple safeguards, it is effortless to have an appealing tan without the harm of sun which makes DHA the ideal option to get a natural tan all the time.