Dihydroxyacetone
Dihydroxyacetone
Dihydroxyacetone (pronunciation: /daɪˌhaɪdrɒksiˈæsɪtoʊn/), also known as DHA, is a simple Saccharide that is primarily used as an ingredient in Sunless tanning products. It is often derived from plant sources such as Sugar cane and by the fermentation of Glycerol.
Etymology
The term "Dihydroxyacetone" is derived from its chemical structure, which consists of two Hydroxyl groups (-OH) attached to an Acetone molecule. The prefix "di-" is from Greek, meaning "two", "hydroxy-" refers to the hydroxyl groups, and "-acetone" refers to the acetone molecule.
Usage
Dihydroxyacetone is most commonly used in the cosmetics industry, specifically in sunless tanning products. When applied to the skin, it reacts with Amino acids in the dead layer of skin on the surface to produce a temporary tan. This reaction is non-toxic and does not involve the skin's Melanocytes, which are responsible for the skin's natural tanning process in response to Ultraviolet radiation.
Related Terms
- Glycerone: Another name for dihydroxyacetone.
- Ketose: A type of monosaccharide that includes dihydroxyacetone.
- Maillard reaction: The chemical reaction that occurs between amino acids and reducing sugars, including dihydroxyacetone, that gives browned food its distinctive flavor. This reaction is also responsible for the tanning effect of dihydroxyacetone on the skin.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Dihydroxyacetone
- Wikipedia's article - Dihydroxyacetone
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