Dihydroxyacetone

Product Description

Green Stone Swiss supplies cosmetic-grade Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) under a direct factory model, with GMP-aligned quality control, batch documentation, and sample support for brands developing sunless-tanning systems.

Dihydroxyacetone (C₃H₆O₃; CAS 96-26-4) is a three-carbon ketose used as a self-tanning active. It reacts with free amino groups in the stratum corneum through a Maillard-type pathway to form brown melanoidin pigments, producing a temporary tanned appearance without UV exposure. Color typically develops within a few hours and is limited to the outer skin layers that renew through desquamation.

DHA remains a core active for self-tanning lotions, sprays, and face/body creams where formulators need predictable shade build, water solubility, and documented process controls for pH and compatibility.

Product Specification

• INCI Name: Dihydroxyacetone
• CAS No.: 96-26-4
• Molecular Formula: C₃H₆O₃
• Molecular Weight: 90.08 g/mol
• Appearance: White to off-white crystalline powder
• Purity: ≥98% Typical
• Solubility: Soluble in water
• Suggested pH: Maintain finished formulas in a mildly acidic range typical for DHA systems (commonly about 3.5–5.0)
• Storage: Store sealed in a cool, dry place; protect from heat and moisture

Key Benefits & Applications

Dihydroxyacetone is a benchmark self-tanning active for professional sunless body and face formulations.

• Develops temporary brown melanoidin color via reaction with stratum corneum amino groups
• Enables UV-free tanned appearance in lotions, creams, gels, and sprayable self-tanners
• Water-soluble profile supports aqueous and emulsion chassis for face and body use
• Often paired with complementary tanning sugars for more even, natural-looking shade build
• Typical use level: Formulation-dependent; finalize within regional self-tanning regulatory limits

Formulation Guidelines

Follow these guidelines to preserve Dihydroxyacetone activity and achieve even color development in self-tanning systems.

• Suggested Use Level: Formulation-dependent; confirm against regional limits for self-tanning products and target shade intensity
• pH Range: Keep finished products mildly acidic (commonly about 3.5–5.0) to limit premature DHA degradation
• Addition: Dissolve in the aqueous phase; add during cool-down, typically below about 40°C
• Compatibility: Avoid amino acids, proteins, peptides, and EDTA in the same phase when possible; certain AHAs, mineral pigments, and some fragrance materials may affect shade or stability—verify in the final chassis
• Stability: Protect bulk and finished goods from heat and moisture; use opaque packaging where practical
• Combine with Erythrulose for more gradual, even, and natural-looking self-tan development in face and body formulas.