Ingredient name
Dihydroxyacetone
Type of ingredient
Carbohydrate (color additive)
Commonly found in
Creams, tanning products
What are the benefits of dihydroxyacetone?
Results are equivocal on the benefits of dihydroxyacetone. Some studies report it has a protective effect from skin cancer, while others claim it may benefit photodamage by its mechanism to complex with amino acids in the stratum corneum to produce a chromophore. It may also be used in light treatment for psoriasis.
What is dihydroxyacetone?
Dihydroxyacetone is a sugar-based color additive approved for use by the FDA for sunless tanning products. It reacts with amino acids to produce a pigmented complex in the stratum corneum.

Is dihydroxyacetone safe for all skin types and tones?
Dihydroxyacetone is likely safe for all skin types and tones based on available data. It should be used with caution in patients with darker skin types, as there is a variable amount of pigmentation, which may not blend with the natural skin color. However, there are limited reports of any harm from this product available.
Contraindications
There is minimal data on contraindications for the topical application of dihydroxyacetone. There are reported cases of coughing and generalized rash, dizziness or fainting after its use. Patients with hypersensitivity to dihydroxyacetone or its derivatives should avoid these products.
Sources
Braunberger TL, Nahhas AF, Katz LM, Sadrieh N, Lim HW. Dihydroxyaceton
Author

Nishad Sathe, MD
Nishad Sathe is a PGY-3 Internal Medicine/Dermatology resident at the University of Minnesota