Ingredient Directory
Medium ConcernVegan

Dihydroxyacetone

1,3-Dihydroxypropan-2-one

Safety Flags
Allergen: Irritation possible
Safety Notes

Self tanning ingredient. Spray formats need inhalation exposure review.

Function & Common Use

Function

Skin coloring / Self tanning agent

Category

Self Tanning Active

Common In

Self tanning lotions, tanning drops, bronzing products

Origin

Synthetic / Fermentation derived

Concentration Limits

India (CDSCO)

Not verified

EU Cosmetics Reg.

Not verified

US FDA (21 CFR)

Externally applied use only; final FDA status check required

Korea (MFDS)

Not verified

Format restriction: Avoid eye area, lips, mucous membranes and inhalation exposure

Baby restriction: Not suitable

Pregnancy: Avoid spray/inhalation formats; assess full formula

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Dihydroxyacetone safe to use in skincare?

Dihydroxyacetone has a Medium concern rating. Self tanning ingredient. Spray formats need inhalation exposure review.

Is Dihydroxyacetone allowed in India?

Dihydroxyacetone is currently classified as "Not specifically restricted in source checked" under Indian cosmetics regulations. The maximum permitted concentration is Not verified.

What is Dihydroxyacetone used for in cosmetics?

Dihydroxyacetone functions as: Skin coloring / Self tanning agent. It is commonly found in: Self tanning lotions, tanning drops, bronzing products.

Can Dihydroxyacetone cause an allergic reaction?

Yes. Dihydroxyacetone has an allergen flag (Irritation possible). If you have sensitive skin or known fragrance/contact allergies, patch-test products containing this ingredient before full use.

Is Dihydroxyacetone safe for babies?

Dihydroxyacetone has baby/child restrictions: Not suitable. Avoid using products containing this ingredient on infants unless specifically formulated and labelled for baby use.

TCS Assessment
Medium Concern
Data Confidence
Low to Medium
Based on peer-reviewed safety data, regulatory status, and expert review by The Clean Sheet panel.

Regulatory Status

India (CDSCO)
Not specifically restricted in source checked
EU
Check current Annex position before approval; no final lock in source checked
US FDA
Allowed for externally applied self tanning use in source context; avoid eye area, lips, mucous membranes and inhalation exposure
Korea (MFDS)
Not specifically restricted in source checked
Australia (TGA)
Cosmetic self tanning use; avoid therapeutic claims
Canada (NHPID)
Not verified in NHPID source checked

EU Annex: Current Annex position not verified

Identifiers

CAS96-26-4
EC202-494-5

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