Ciriminna R, Fidalgo A, Ilharco LM, Pagliaro M. Dihydroxyacetone: an updated insight into an important bioproduct. ChemistryOpen. 2018;7(3):233-236. The main chemical used in tanning lotions is dihydroxyacetone, commonly abbreviated to DHA. Tanning lotions can contain up to 15% DHA, though the lotions available to buy in shops max out at 5%, and are usually in the 3-5% range. Obviously, the higher the percentage, the more pronounced the tanning action, though higher percentages tend to be more susceptible to streakiness after application. Another chemical, erythrulose, can also be used, though as its tanning effect is more gradual, it’s more commonly used in conjunction with DHA (if at all).

Byrdie The 11 Best Self Tanners of 2023, Tested and Reviewed - Byrdie

Yes, tanning drops can still benefit those with a darker skin tone because they help to even out pigmentation,” says Bolder. “Self-tan can also add a beautiful golden hue on darker skin.” The good news is that when your tan starts to dim, it's easy to add a few tanning drops to your moisturiser, with no need to spend time meticulously blending with a tanning mitt. Will tanning drops work on all skin tones and types?There are many self-tanning preparations containing DHA on the market and many will claim to be the best formulation available. Consider the following points when deciding upon the preparation most suitable for you.

10 Best Gradual Tanning Lotions 2023 | UK Dermatologist

Like full-strength fake tanning products, gradual tanners come in different formulations for face and body; gradual face tanners tend to be lighter in both shade and texture than heavier body creams and lotions. As with full-strength fake tans, gradual tans also come as lotions, sprays, mousses and wipes. You may prefer the moisturising feel of a lotion, the ease of a spray, or the speed of a fast-drying mousse. Once you’ve stopped applying gradual tanner, the colour will usually last a few days to a week. Don't use with: Alpha hydroxy acids speed up the breakdown of DHA; while they're a good way to remove your tan once you're ready, don't use them when applying self-tanner. What Is Dihydroxyacetone? Face tanners are designed specifically for this area as they contain skincare ingredients targeted to help treat our daily concerns, strengthen the skin's barrier and add a natural golden finish, rather than the deeper tan result you often get with body products,” Bolder says. How do you apply self-tan drops?This super-moisturising, gradual tanning lotion comes out of the bottle transparent, and after only 4 to 8 hours, begins to develop into a remarkable caramel-golden tan. St.Tropez Self Tan contains a higher concentration of the tanning agent (DHA), which provides a natural looking tan that lasts up to 5 days after just one application. Self Tan Classic, Express and Dark contain a tinted guide colour for ease of application (so you can’t miss any patches) and also benefit from an instant wearable colour while your self tan develops underneath. Self Tan should ideally be left to develop between 4 to 8hrs (excluding Express) before showering off the tinted guide colour to reveal your natural-looking tan. The developed colour will then last between 3 and 10 days depending on which product was used and how the tan is maintained.

FAQS | St.Tropez

Fake tan takes a little while to dry, and you’ve got to give it time for the best results. It takes around 10-20 minutes for fake tan to dry thoroughly, but it’s always best to follow the instructions on the product. Is fake tan bad for your skin?

Be careful to cover eyes, lips and mucous membranes to prevent swallowing or inhaling the DHA-containing mist. Is the tan instantaneous and how long does it last? Alpha hydroxy acids promote the sloughing off of excess dead skin cells so should improve the evenness of colouration.