Erythrulose (DHB) CAS 533-50-6

Introduction to Erythrulose

Erythrulose, or D-erythrulose (DHB), is a four-carbon keto sugar typically produced via carbohydrate fermentation. It reacts with amino acids in the skin’s stratum corneum through the Maillard reaction to form a temporary brown pigment, delivering a sunless tan without UV exposure. It appears as a colorless to pale yellow viscous liquid or white crystalline powder at room temperature, highly soluble in water and glycerin.

Used alone, it produces a lighter, red-toned tan; when blended with DHA, it creates a deeper, more natural bronze finish with more even color development and reduced streaking. It is widely formulated into premium self-tanning lotions, sprays, mousses and serums for gradual, realistic-looking color build-up.

Erythrulose Chemical & Physical Properties

Applications of Erythrulose

Sunless self-tanning products: The core cosmetic use is as a tanning active in lotions, creams, sprays and mousses. Typically blended with DHA at 1:3 to 1:5 ratios to produce a deeper, more natural bronze tone with less orange undertone, better color evenness and reduced streaking compared to DHA alone.

Gradual skin toning: Incorporated into daily moisturizers, body lotions and facial serums for subtle, buildable color. It delivers light, natural-looking skin enhancement suitable for everyday use, allowing users to build and maintain a tan gradually.

Tan color correction: Added to self-tanning formulations to adjust final hue, neutralize orange tones from DHA and produce a richer, more realistic brown finish. It also extends tan longevity and improves the uniformity of color fade-off.

Storage & Safety Precautions for Erythrulose

• Store in tightly sealed containers in a cool, dry, dark place below 25 °C. Protect from direct sunlight, high temperature and humidity to prevent color darkening, Maillard browning and microbial contamination. Refrigeration is recommended for long-term liquid storage.
• Wear safety goggles and nitrile gloves during bulk handling. Avoid direct eye contact and prolonged skin exposure. Rinse thoroughly with water in case of eye contact.
• Keep separated from strong oxidizers, alkaline materials and high-protein formulations. Reseal opened containers promptly to prevent moisture uptake and microbial growth.

Erythrulose FAQ

Q: How does Erythrulose create a sunless tan?

A: It reacts with amino acids in the outer skin layer via the Maillard reaction to form a temporary brown pigment, producing a natural-looking tan without UV exposure.

Q: Why is Erythrulose commonly blended with DHA?

A: Blending with DHA creates a deeper, more natural bronze tone with less orange undertone, improves color evenness, reduces streaking and extends overall tan longevity.

Q: How should Erythrulose be stored to maintain quality?

A: Store sealed in a cool, dark, dry place below 25 °C. Protect from heat, light and humidity to prevent browning, activity loss and microbial contamination.