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Dihydroxyacetone (DHA)
A simple carbohydrate commonly used as the active ingredient in topical sunless tanning products; reacts with amino acids in the skin's stratum corneum to produce a temporary pigmentation (Maillard reaction). Not approved as a food additive by FDA but generally recognized as safe for topical cosmetic use.
Mineral or nutrientUpdated Nov 20, 2025
Health score-1.0
-5Poor5
Water guidelines
- Legal limit
- Not specified
- Health guideline
- Not specified
Food and supplement guidelines
- Legal limit
- Not specified
- Health guideline
- Not specified
Risks
Potential skin irritation, possible formation of reactive oxygen species under UV exposure, concerns about inhalation toxicity in spray products
Benefits
Provides temporary skin pigmentation without UV exposure, safer alternative to tanning beds and sunbathing