Norvell and Tanning Solution FAQ
HOW SUNLESS TANNERS WORK
Sunless tanning sprays, gels, creams, and lotions color the skin without exposure to ultraviolet exposure. The main ingredient in such products is C3H6O3, or dihydroxyacetone (DHA). DHA is a simple sugar derived from sugarcane, sugar beets, and the fermentation of glycerin. The colorless 3-carbon sugar compound binds with the first layer of skin, the stratum corneum. These “dead” skin cells lack a nucleus and organelles, and are thus unable to reproduce. However, the dead cells still contain keratin, an amino acid responsible for skin coloration.
When DHA chemically reacts with the keratin in the skin cells, there is a resulting darkening effect. These pigments, called melanoidins, range from yellow to brown, just like the natural melanin of found within the skin’s layers.
What type of bronzers are used in Norvell® Sunless Tanning Solution?
There are 3 different types of bronzers. First, there is the instantly visible cosmetic bronzer that gives you that “just off the beach” Norvell look but will disappear when you rinse. The 2nd bronzer is a clear bronzer, which is DHA. This bronzer doesnt give you an immediate visible effect, but will react with the skin in 2-4 hours and give you your color. The final bronzer is Eyrthulose. This is a slower reacting bronzer that is similar to DHA but gives you the longer tan life since it develops slower.
THE FDA AND DHA
Over the past year, several questions have been fielded at Norvell® over safety concerns and spray tanning. As industry leaders, we strive to be informative and keep our clients up to date on all current studies in regards to this topic. The most current and informative scientific study available to our industry on sunless spray tanning was performed by the European Commission’s Safety Commission on Consumer Safety (EC SCCS). This valuable information is the foundation of Norvell’s training and educational programs.
The FDA has also set out recommendations, not mandates, which Norvell® fully supports and endorses. When spraying DHA tanning solutions, either by handheld system or through automatic spray booths, the following precautions are suggested:
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Use of Protective Undergarments
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Use of Nose Filters
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Use of Protective Eye Shields
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Use of Lip Balm All these are available upon request at Naturally Sunless.
What is DHA?
DHA is an acronym for Dihydroxyacetone. DHA is an ingredient derived from sugar cane and beets, which reacts with amino acids in your skin to create the darkening reaction or tan.
RESULTS
The “sunless” color gradually fades as the dead skin cells flake off, typically within a 4-7 day period depending on the individual and the proper skin maintenance. Prolonged water submersion, swimming in pools, or heavy sweating can lighten the tan by accelerating the shedding process.
Does it contain sunscreen?
Norvell® will not contain sunscreen. It is solely for cosmetic purposes and yes it recommended that users use a high SPF sunscreen as soon as the solution has fully developed.
Information from The Science of Sunless at www.Norvelpro.com For more information http://ec.europa.eu/health/scientific_committees/consumer_safety/docs/sccs_o_048.pdf