Dihydroxyacetone has dominated the sunless tanning industry since its browning abilities were accidentally discovered in spit-up.

The most popular options for sunless tanning are sprays and creams containing dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a Food and Drug Administration-approved color additive.

Dihydroxyacetone was approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 1973 for use in self-tanning lotions, which are applied directly to the skin and not inhaled.