The 2 main layers of the skin are the epidermis on the outside and the dermis on the inside. All tanning, be it UV or sunless takes place in the epidermis. The epidermis is also made up of layers. The deepest layer of the epidermis, called the stratum basale (basal layer), is affected during UV tanning. The stratum corneum (horny layer) is the outermost layer of the epidermis and is the layer targeted by most sunless tanning products on the market today.
The American Academy of Dermatology states that the most effective sunless products available have Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) as their active ingredient. DHA is a colourless sugar that interacts with the dead cells located in the stratum corneum of the epidermis. As the sugar interacts with the dead skin cells, a colour change occurs.
The subtle formulas contain the active ingredient Dihydroxyacetone (DHA). As stated, DHA is a safe and natural sugar based product that works in harmony with the amino acids on the outer layer of the skin. The natural reaction between the DHA products and the skin results in creating the desired effect of a natural, bronzed, tanned appearance without the damage caused by tanning from UV rays.
DHA has been an active ingredient in tanning lotions for over 50 years. The revolutionary element is the quality of the carrier incorporated with the ingredient DHA and the process of application. The combination of both results in a perfectly even and streak free natural, bronzed tan.