🌞 A tanning chemical 🧪 A simple sugar

dihydroxyacetone

1 9.9

A clear chemical used in self-tanning lotions to make skin look tanned

noun
/ˌdaɪhɪˌdrɒksɪˈæsɪtoʊn/

Specialized

: dihidroxiacetona

The reaction of dihydroxyacetone with skin proteins creates a temporary brown color.

Examples

Scientists study dihydroxyacetone to improve the safety and effectiveness of cosmetic products.
Many self-tanning lotions contain dihydroxyacetone as the active ingredient.
Many self-tanners contain dihydroxyacetone.
The dihydroxyacetone in this lotion gives a natural glow.
The self-tanner contains dihydroxyacetone, which helps achieve a natural-looking tan.
Many cosmetics use dihydroxyacetone to create a sun-kissed appearance without sun exposure.
Products with dihydroxyacetone can provide a temporary tan that lasts several days.

Surface Forms

dihydroxyacetone singular

dihydroxyacetones plural

Morphology

dihydroxyacetone = hydroxyacetone (opaque) = di + hydroxy + acetone

The morphemes are technical chemical combining forms and are unlikely to be known to an average B1 learner, so the meaning is not inferable from the parts for general learners.

Etymology

Dihydroxyacetone breaks into di- 'two', hydroxy 'water group', and acetone 'a small chemical'. The two 'water' groups on the acetone help it react with the skin to make a temporary brown color, which is why it is used in self-tanning products.