Everything you need to know about DHA and Bronze Base

Last summer we were made aware of the ‘Publication of EU Regulation Relating to Dihydroxyacetone (DHA)’. With this directive, we were informed that by 31st March 2022, all self-tanning products in the EU would be limited to a maximum of 10% DHA based on safety data evaluated by the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS). Although a lot of tan lovers will be sad to see ‘ultra-dark’ versions of their tan off the market due to this rule, we do believe that regulating the use of DHA in the EU is important for consumer health.

What is DHA?

DHA or Dihydroxyacetone is a type of sugar that is naturally colourless, but when applied to the skin, it causes a chemical reaction with amino acids on the top layer of the skin, the epidermis, which is what mimics that natural, sun-kissed tan we all know and love. DHA has already been regulated in the United States, and up until now, it has been used without restriction in the European Union. Any self-tanning products containing more than 10% DHA will be removed the EU market from March 2022, leaving a lot of self tan brands needing to reformulate.

So what does that mean for Bronze Base?

Thankfully, this new regulation doesn’t affect us at all. Bronze Base contains less than 5% DHA and has always been completely safe to use, even for those with the most sensitive skin and even for Mama’s to Be (although they do say to limit use of DHA while pregnant).

This unique formula has Good-For-You ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid, which provides hydration and gives the skin a plumped & smooth finish, and Vitamin E which works to condition and nourish the skin. The DHA element is secondary and in a low enough quantity to be truly safe but yet just enough to give that beautiful, bronzed glow we all adore.

Some studies suggest that if DHA is inhaled, it can cause serious harm to your respiratory system. This stood out to us when we were creating Bronze Base and so we opted for a neat bottle with a pump & a serum-like formula, rather than a spray mist which is more likely to linger and make its way into our systems.

How to use Bronze Base;

Step 1- cleanse your face and neck and apply your favourite serum and moisturiser as you normally would.

Step 2- Pump 2-3 drops of Bronze Base (3-4 drops if you prefer a deeper tan) onto a mini buffer brush

Step 3- apply the formula all over the face and neck in small circular motions to ensure maximum coverage.

Step 4- Head off to bed for some beauty sleep and in just 6 hours (although you’ll be sleeping for 8) you’ll have a beautifully developed, natural bronzed glow that will last for up to 3 days.

Top Tips: Don’t forget your ears when applying and if you have a lighter hair colour, it’s always a good idea to wipe through the brows after application.

Bronze Base

Along with the application being completely fuss-free and the ingredients working to care for your skin, Bronze Base is also non-comedogenic, meaning it’s suitable for breakout-prone skin as it’s not going to sit in or clog your pores. Also, as the formula is so hydrating, you can be sure it’s not going to cling to any dry patches either, whether that be from having a dry skin type or just having those little dry patches that can stick around a little longer while a blemish is healing.

Available in 2 shades, Light/Medium and Medium/Dark so you can choose your level of bronze, and we now also have refillable pouches so you can buy your 50ml Bronze Base bottle once for €22.99 and when it runs out, just pick up a 50ml refillable pouch for €18.

Aimee’s favourite way to wear Bronze Base is with a layer of Beauty Base on top as this gives her extra moisture, glow and most importantly SPF30 protection, she’ll then finish her look with some concealer, blush and mascara. You can also wear Bronze Base under your makeup and let it develop throughout the day as it has no drying time, no fake tan smell and it will never transfer. Think of it more like a hydrating serum, with bronzed glow benefits!

If you have any questions regarding Bronze Base or DHA, pop us a DM on instagram @sculptedbyaimee or send an email to hello@sculptedbyaimee.com , our team would be more than happy to help.

Happy Safe Self tanning!

Love Aimee & Team

xx