Dihydroxyacetone ( DHA) is the ingredient in all self-tanning formulas. DHA is a colorless 3-carbon sugar which causes a chemical reaction with the amino acids to the surface cells of the skin producing a darkening effect. It only affects the epidermal layer of the skin. The development of color takes anywhere from 6 to 8 hours to develop, so, you should not shower for that amount of time after you receive your spray tan for maximum results.
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.
The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?