Dihydroxyacetone, or DHA, a colorless sugar compound that’s used in most self-tanners. It can be derived synthetically, or from sugar beets and canes. When DHA interacts with the amino acids in the proteins of the skin cells, the production of melanoids – brown pigments – happens, which creates a tanned appearance.
This reaction only occurs in the top layer of the skin, which is why self tanners aren’t permanent. At Boë we use the smallest possible particles that go deeper in the skin, compared to other self tan products. This is why the tan from Boë’s products have a long lasting natural tan color.
DHA is generally well-tolerated by most people, though it can cause both contact dermatitis (rashes, irritation, redness) as well as an allergy. Though, we have never experienced any customers getting allergic reactions, alone from Boë’s products.
Erythrulose is a yellow to reddish sugar found in red berries, most commonly raspberries. Like DHA, it tans the skin due to a reaction with the amino acids (proteins) in the skin’s dead surface layer, producing a brownish tint. Like DHA, Erythrulose neither uses the skin’s normal pigmentation or UV-exposure to produce the tan coloration. But rather works as a chemical reaction on the skin’s dead surface cell layer and changes the skin cells to a brownish tone. At Boë we blend Erythrulose with DHA – to help the tan tone appear ‘richer’, deeper, and more even. The combination of Erythrulose and DHA gives you a more ‘natural’ look, as Erythrulose has a warmer/darker tone than the more orangey-colored DHA. Though this can vary depending on the individual, as each person’s unique skin may differ.
Hydrogenated Ethylhexyl Olivate is a unique sensorial agent that can be used as a vegetable-based alternative to silicone. The Hydrogenated Ethylhexyl Olivate is a highly stable transparent nourishing fluid oil, with low odor. It provides a long-lasting silky feel that creates a satin effect and smoothness on your skin, without oily residue or greasiness. As a cosmetic emollient of universal use, it restores suppleness and elasticity to the skin.
Glycerin is a natural component in healthy skin. When used in skincare, it’s typically derived from vegetable fats (like coconut oil, soy or palm) or produced synthetically. The glycerin used by Boë and in our products, is found and derived from non GMO Soy Oil – which makes it 100% natural and vegan. Glycerin is a hygroscopic ingredient, meaning it attracts the moisture from the air surrounding us, and helps us to contain it in our skin. Glycerin imitates the skin’s natural moisturizing factors in the skin’s fat layer, making it crucial for the skin’s ability to tie water in the superior skin layer. Besides being an eminent humectant, glycerin protects against environmental sources of skin irritation. It strengthens the precious skin barriers, besides helping other ingredients to penetrate the skin better. Glycerin helps to maintain a healthy and good moisture balance in your skin, and when the moisture balance is ‘normal’ your skin will feel soft, smooth and elastic, making it receptive to skincare and other products. Lastly, it aids in improving the skin’s youthful look.
Tosolin itself is synthesized and extracted from yeast and microscopic mushrooms in controlled conditions. It has, in In-Vitro tests, demonstrated that it creates 90% faster tanning, 77% deeper natural tan for 10 days or longer (average), and 73% improved reduction of sun wrinkles. It reduces the penetration of UVA, which results in a reduced damage of collagen, while also increasing the renewal of collagen, which UVA otherwise damages. Non flexible collagen is renewed even faster, which leads to prevention and reduction of sun wrinkles. Tosolin does also increase the natural resistance to both immediate and prolonged sun damage.
Butyrospermum Parkii Butter, better known as Shea Butter. Rich in antioxidants, including quercetin, epicatechin gallate, gallocatechin, epigallocatechin, as well as skin-replenishing fatty acids (stearic and linoleic), Shea Butter has emollient properties for dry skin. The butter is protective and inhibits the formation of free radicals. It’s well adapted for the anti-ageing processes, as it helps to retain the elasticity due to its combination of triglycerides and unsaponifiable fraction.
The refined Shea Butter we use comes from Burkina Faso, in West Africa, and our partners are directly socially responsible for the support of the local community in the trade of Shea.
