6 Sunless Tanning Secrets
What the Bottle Won't Tell You
-- By Leanne Beattie, Health & Beauty Writer
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The active ingredient in most self-tanners is DHA, a simple sugar that turns golden brown when exposed to certain proteins. When applied to your skin, which contains amino acids (proteins), an interaction takes place—the same type of reaction that turns beer brown during production, for example—that temporarily changes the color of your skin.
DHA in self-tanners is present in concentrations ranging from 2% to 5%. In general, products with higher concentrations are used to tan the body, while the lower concentrations are used in facial products. The higher the concentration of DHA, the darker the results.
Say goodbye to the unnatural orange tones of yesteryear! Today’s self-tanning products look more natural than ever. But before you start, here are a few things you need to know to ensure your faux tan turns out perfectly.
It may seem like common sense, but you should carefully read and follow the product's instructions (and warnings). That little label says a lot, and if you read conflicting advice elsewhere, be sure to stick with the instructions on your product. That being said, the rest of these tricks will help your self-tanning experience go smoothly!
