Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) is the ingredient in self tanners that tans your skin. DHA is a carbohydrate compound derived from sugar cane, approved by the FDA for use in sunless tanning solution. DHA is a naturally derived ingredient that has been used for ages. It was the first ingredient to be used for sunless tanning. When applied to the skin, a reaction occurs that causes it to brown. The brownish polymers that are created in the skin mimic a sun kissed beach glow! Formulations of self-tanners have come a long way from the orange tans which gave DHA a bit of a bad rap. Now professional solutions contain many natural additives to work with DHA to ensure the best possible spray tan. Erythrulose, a berry derived sugar extract, is another ingredient that causes a similar chemical reaction as DHA, which is found in our solutions. They work together to yield a gorgeous, long-lasting color.