It’s completely natural to have questions when it comes to what you’re putting on your skin—especially with self-tanners becoming a staple in beauty routines worldwide. You might wonder: Are they really safe? How do they work? Could they affect my health? At That’so, we believe that knowledge is the best beauty secret. Understanding the ingredients in your products not only helps you make informed choices but also builds trust and confidence in your skincare routine. So, let’s dive into the facts about DHA and self-tanners, and clear up some common concerns.

 

What is DHA and how does it work?

DHA, short for dihydroxyacetone, is the star ingredient in most self-tanners. It’s a natural sugar derivative, first used in cosmetics back in the 1960s, and it’s been safely tanning skin ever since. Unlike sunbathing, which darkens your skin by increasing melanin production (your body’s natural pigment), DHA works differently. When applied to the skin, DHA reacts with amino acids found in the very top layer of your skin—the stratum corneum. This reaction, known as the Maillard reaction (similar to how bread browns when toasted), creates a temporary browning effect that looks like a natural tan.

Importantly, this process only affects the outermost layer of your skin, meaning DHA stays on the surface and does not penetrate deeply or enter your bloodstream. This is why the color gradually fades as your skin naturally exfoliates.

 

Is DHA safe? 

Safety is often the biggest concern, and rightly so. Since its introduction in the 1960s, DHA has been extensively studied and reviewed. It has a long track record of safe use in cosmetic products when applied to the skin as intended.

DHA is approved by major health authorities worldwide—like Health Canada, the U.S. FDA, and the European Commission—which strictly regulate its concentration in cosmetics to ensure user safety. These organizations regularly review new research to keep safety standards up to date.

In short: using DHA-based self-tanners as directed is considered safe, and there’s no reason to be concerned when applying it to the skin as recommended.

 

What about spray self-tanners? Should I worry about inhaling DHA?

Spray self-tanners have become very popular because they’re quick and easy to apply evenly. However, some studies have raised questions about inhaling tiny particles of DHA during application, especially for people who spray themselves—or others—very frequently or professionally.

Here’s what you need to know:

• For occasional personal use, spraying in a well-ventilated area is considered safe, with no proven health risks from inhaling small amounts of DHA.

• For professionals applying spray tans multiple times a day, it’s wise to take precautions like wearing a mask and ensuring good airflow in the workspace. This is simply a sensible safety habit, similar to what you’d do when working with any aerosol product.

 

Why choose self-tanners over tanning beds?

We all love a sun-kissed glow, but tanning beds come with risks—premature skin aging, wrinkles, sunspots, and most importantly, a higher risk of skin cancer.

Self-tanners offer a safe, effective alternative that gives you that golden look without any UV damage. Modern self-tanners, like That’so’s Golden Beauty, don’t just provide color; they also nourish your skin. Thanks to ingredients like hyaluronic acid, our products hydrate deeply, leaving your skin soft and plump. Plus, they have anti-aging benefits and deliver a natural, streak-free finish you’ll love.

In summary:

- DHA is a safe, natural ingredient used in self-tanners for over 50 years.
- It only reacts with the skin’s surface and does not penetrate deeper layers.
- No scientific evidence links topical DHA use to cancer.
- Spray tans are safe for occasional use, with simple precautions for professionals.
- Self-tanners are a healthier, UV-free way to enjoy a beautiful, natural glow — plus added skin benefits!