For years, people have searched for a safe, effective way to achieve a golden glow without the risks of UV exposure. That’s where sunless tanning lotions come in. At SunFX, we’ve spent over 20 years perfecting formulas that not only deliver beautiful color but also care for your skin. But how do these products actually work? Let’s dive into the science behind sunless tanning lotions and why they’re such a smart alternative to traditional tanning.
The active ingredient in most sunless tanning products is Dihydroxyacetone (DHA). DHA is a sugar molecule derived from natural sources like sugar cane and sugar beets.
Here’s the science: when DHA comes into contact with the amino acids in the top layer of your skin (the stratum corneum), it creates a chemical reaction known as the Maillard reaction. This reaction causes your skin cells to darken, producing a natural-looking brown pigment.
Unlike UV tanning, which penetrates deeper and can cause long-term skin damage, DHA only works on the surface layer of the skin. This makes it a safe, non-toxic way to achieve color.
We’ve all seen a “bad tan”—that streaky, orange look. This usually happens when:
A low-quality lotion uses cheap or unstable DHA.
The product has the wrong DHA concentration for your skin type.
The formula isn’t balanced with skin-loving ingredients to help it absorb evenly.
At SunFX, we carefully balance DHA with botanical extracts, moisturizers, and natural bases to ensure even absorption, long-lasting results, and no orange tones.
Your skin’s pH level plays a big role in how DHA develops. If your skin is too acidic or too alkaline, the tan may develop unevenly or fade faster.
That’s why we always recommend:
Exfoliating before tanning to remove dead skin cells.
Avoiding heavy lotions or oils right before application.
Using SunFX Body Polish or Exfoliating Mitts for the perfect prep.
With the right prep, DHA can react smoothly, creating a streak-free, natural tan.
Since DHA only colors the outer layer of your skin, your tan naturally fades as those skin cells shed. This typically takes 5–10 days, depending on your skin type and how well you care for it afterward.
To extend the life of your tan:
Moisturize daily with SunFX Body Milk or Gradual Tan Extender.
Avoid long, hot showers and harsh exfoliants.
Pat your skin dry instead of rubbing.
At SunFX, we’ve always believed that a tanning lotion should do more than just give you color—it should care for your skin at the same time. That’s why every formula we create is enriched with ingredients chosen for their skin benefits.
Here are a few of the skin-loving heroes we include:
Aloe Vera – Kn
own for its soothing, cooling properties, Aloe Vera hydrates
deeply while calming the skin. It helps your tan develop more evenly and prevents the dryn
ess that can sometimes come with sunless tanning.
Vitamin E – A powerful antioxidant
that fights free radicals and environmental stressors. It nourishes the skin, improves elasticity, and suppo
rts a longer-lasting tan.
Botanical Oils & Butters – Ingredients like coconut oil,
jojoba oil, and shea butter lock in moisture and condition the skin, giving it a soft, supple feel. This hydration is key to keeping you
r glow even and extending the life of your tan.
Chamomile & Green Tea Extracts – These calming botanicals soothe irritation and deliver antioxidants to support overall ski
n health. They’re perfect for sensitive skin
types who want a gentle, natural tan.
Hyaluronic Acid (in some advanced formulas) – A hydration powerhouse that pulls water into the skin, plumping it
and keeping it smooth. Hydrated skin not only looks healthier but also helps your tan fade more gracefully.
By blending DHA with these nourishing ingredients, our lotions don’t just create a tan—they create a healthier skin environment. That’s the difference between a generic sunless tan and a SunFX tan that truly feels good on your skin.
This skin-first approach is why SunFX tans don’t just look good, they feel good too.
The science behind sunless tanning lotions is simple but powerful: by using DHA, combined with skin-loving ingredients, we can safely achieve the golden glow people love—without harmful UV rays.
At SunFX, we’ve dedicated decades to refining our formulas so they’re not only natural-looking but also vegan, cruelty-free, and safe for all skin types. When you choose SunFX, you’re choosing more than just a tan—you’re choosing science-backed skincare with a glow.
— Kylie
Owner, SunFX
Self Tan
Skin Care
spray tanning
equipment
