Dihydroxyacetone, or DHA, is 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. We have though 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.
It works in much the same manner as DHA. None of the ingredients use 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.
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.
Propanediol and Pentylene Glycol are both moisturizing agents, while Dimethyl Isosorbide is a tan booster. Sodium PCA is regenerating your skin and its smoothening effect, and Dimethyl Isosorbide works as a tan booster. Lastly, Glyceryl Glucoside (Glycoin) works as a moisturizing agent and skin softener.