Glossary
tan, translated.
Every term the tanning world throws around, defined in plain English — no gatekeeping, no jargon about jargon.
DHA (dihydroxyacetone)
The active ingredient in every self tan — a simple sugar that reacts with amino acids in the outer layer of skin to create brown colour.
guide colour
The instant cosmetic bronze in some self tans that shows exactly where product has been applied, then rinses off in the first shower.
development time
The hours between applying a self tan and the first rinse, during which the DHA reaction builds the colour.
express tan
A self tan formulated to develop in one to four hours instead of the traditional six to eight.
gradual tan
A low-DHA daily moisturiser that builds colour one shade at a time and holds it with regular use.
tan drops
A concentrated self-tan serum you mix into moisturiser — the standard way to tan the face.
self-tan mousse
An aerated foam format of self tan — fast-drying, spreadable, and the easiest format to apply evenly with a mitt.
tanning mitt
A velvet-surfaced applicator glove that buffs self tan into an even veil while keeping the palms clean.
tan fade
The gradual loss of self-tan colour as the skin’s outer layer naturally sheds — evenly on hydrated skin, patchily on dry skin.
patch test
Applying a small amount of product to a discreet area 24 hours before first use to check for skin sensitivity.