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HOWARD I. MAIBACH, M.D.; ALBERT M. KLIGMAN, M.D., Ph.D.

Arch Dermatol. 1960;82(4):505-507.

	Since this article does not have an abstract, we have provided the first 150 words of the full text PDF and any section headings.

A recent cosmetic development indicates the possibility of acquiring a suntan from a bottle without exposure to the sun. Dihydroxyacetone, the active agent in these suntan-simulating proprietaries, has enjoyed wide popularity since its introduction. Dermatologists have been asked how this material acts and whether it is harmful. This paper considers some of its properties.

Chemistry

The structural formula of dihydroxyacetone (1,3-dihydroxy-2-propanone) abbreviated hereafter as DHA is . DHA is, thus a 3-carbon sugar. It has been shown to be an intermediate in the metabolism of carbohydrates in higher plants and animals.¹ Oral intake of large quantities of the drug is well tolerated in man.² DHA is very soluble in cold water, ether, alcohol, and acetone; it is quite stable under normal storage.

In Vivo Observations

The best-known proprietary^* is essentially a 5% aqueous solution of dihydroxyacetone. It is colorless when applied, but after a variable number of hours . . . [Full Text PDF of this Article]

Author Affiliations
Philadelphia

From the Department of Dermatology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Donald M. Pillsbury, M.D., Professor and Chairman.

Footnotes
Submitted for publication May 25, 1960.

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