How do our self-tanning cosmetics work?

Self tanning cosmeticse are the perfect solution if you want to get a healthy and natural-looking tan in no time. You don't have to spend hours in the sun - just learn the basics about our self-tanning formulations and techniques, and then choose your preferred method. To begin with, however, it's worth understanding how the active ingredient in self-tanners, DHA, interacts with the skin's structure.


Everything you need to know about the skin

The epidermis is the third and also the body's outermost protective layer. Beneath it is the dermis and the subcutaneous layer consisting of adipose tissue - it is thanks to it that the body so efficiently cushions the internal organs and acts as a natural insulation. At the same time, the epidermis itself is divided into 5 more layers - in the use of self-tanners, the most important is the surface layer, otherwise known as the horny layer. It consists of flat skin cells that regularly exfoliate - it is this layer that is affected by the self tanning cosmetics.

The exfoliation time of the horny layer is usually 32 to 36 days, and the life of a mature cell can last from 7 to 20 days. It is for this reason that the tan fades over time, and the dead skin cells are gradually removed from the surface of the body. There are many factors that can speed up this process. If you want to maintain your aesthetic tan, remember that the epidermis requires reapplication of a tanning product every few days.

What is the mechanism of action of products with DHA?

Both spray tanning and the use of products that have natural DHA in them involve applying the active ingredient to the skin. Dihydroxyacetone in a colorless formula exhibits amazing tanning properties, so you don't have to expose yourself to the sun's harmful UV rays during classic tanning. Products that have DHA in their formulation have been approved by the FDA as a safe substance in the cosmetic industry. It comes from natural plant sources - primarily sugarcane, which was then converted into fructose.

After undergoing many processes of substance synthesis, DHA is reduced to a form that affects your skin through a non-toxic chemical reaction with amino acids in the epidermis. The important thing is that the effect of DHA is limited to the outer layers of the epidermis, ensuring safety for the entire body. To fully understand how a self-tan is produced, it is also important to keep in mind that each case is individual - the intensity of the shade will depend on the thickness of your skin's horny layer, as well as its natural melanin content.

Particular attention should be paid to the elbow and knee areas, where the horny layer is much thicker, which will make the tan there much more intense. Analogous to this mechanism, for example, the regions of the face, where the horny layer is very thin, then the tan will be softer. The shade of color depends mainly on what amino acids react with DHA - you can get colors from yellow to brown, which perfectly mimics a natural tan.

Persistence of preparations with DHA on the skin

The effect of the artificial tan becomes visible immediately, and gradually darkens over 24 hours. After applying it, it's a good idea to remember to wear dark clothes to protect against possible dirt. Once the tan darkens properly it will become waterproof, so you don't have to worry about washing it off with soap or water. The durability in most cases is between 5 and 10 days, due to the natural peeling of the epidermis. If you want to prevent this, renew your tan regularly, and remember that exfoliation, prolonged exposure to water or even sweating accelerates the process of lightening your tan.