Self-Tanning Product (DHA-Based) — safety profile
Low riskSelf-tanning lotions, mousses, and spray tans using dihydroxyacetone (DHA) to brown skin via Maillard reaction with amino acids in the stratum corneum.
What is this product?
Self-tanning lotions, mousses, and spray tans using dihydroxyacetone (DHA) to brown skin via Maillard reaction with amino acids in the stratum corneum. FDA has approved DHA for external cosmetic application but NOT for spray application (inhalation, eye contact, lip/mucous membrane exposure). Professional spray tan booths deliver aerosolized DHA to entire body including face — inhalation and mucosal exposure are unavoidable without protection.
What's in it
Click any compound name for its full safety profile, regulatory consensus, and exposure data.
Preservatives
Carrier
Red flags — when to walk away
- Product causes skin irritation, redness, or rash — Contact dermatitis or chemical sensitivity.
Green flags — what to look for
- EWG Verified or dermatologist-tested label — Meets strict ingredient safety criteria.
Safer alternatives
- Self-tanning lotion applied by hand — FDA-approved use
- Bronzing makeup — washes off, no chemical skin reaction
- Gradual tan body lotion — lower DHA concentration
Frequently asked questions
Are there safer alternatives to Self-Tanning Product (DHA-Based)?
Yes — consider: Self-tanning lotion applied by hand; Bronzing makeup; Gradual tan body lotion. See the Safer alternatives section above for details.
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Open in body View raw API dataReference data, not professional advice. Aggregates publicly available regulatory and scientific information. Why we built ALETHEIA →