The substance called DHA, is the skin-colouring agent in self tanning products. Reference material defines DHA as colorless, hygroscopic, crystalline powder, soluble in water and alcohol (present in sugar cane).

The secret is that DHA reacts with skin proteins in the outermost layer of it and the fast result is a brown skin, very similar to a tanned skin. DHA is derived from glycerine. DHA was discovered by the Germans in the twenties. The colour is long lasting (that means a few days), but depends on the type of skin and the concentration of DHA. It is non-toxic (as far as the scientific world knows) and has been used in the cosmetic industry since 1970. Another natural ingredient contained by self tanning products is Lawsonia Inermis (henna), used for its coloring properties.

Sunless tanning products have undergone many improvements, therefore what we buy now is far from the old-fashioned sunless tanning lotion or cream. What we have today is a vast choice of sophisticated creams or sunscreens, containing fine ingredients, carefully dosed, tested and supervised in the labs.

Today's self tanning products also nourish and exfoliate the skin, making the tanning process safer and friendlier. The manufacturers don't want to neglect any particulars. This continuous refining process is meant to satisfy the demands of the usual consumers, claiming for safety, health and a natural sunless tan.

The first self tanning products were dissapointing because it was hard to obtain a natural tanned skin with no sun support. The present ones include fruit acids that not only refresh the skin, but also rejuvenate the skin cells. Self tanning products react with aminoacids and result in soft and natural looking skin.

Today, it is thought that the best quality self tanning lotion is that which offers total control of the shade. That means that the consumer is able to adjust or to control the intensity and the color of the tanning he or she gets. Today, a regular consumer can identify light, medium and dark tones. In accordance with the skin type (dry, oily, mixed), the tanner can choose the proper lotion, being also able to control the removal of the self tanning product.

Some self tanning products contain sunscreen with a high sun protection factor. Useless to say, the real and the safe self tanning products are those containing DHA as an active ingredient. Anything else might be harmful for the human skin.