Q: Why do some self-tanning lotions turn my skin orange?

A: Many lotions have an ingredient call DHA (dihydroxyacetone), a.k.a bronzer. DHA is a three-carbon sugar that when put into tanning lotion reacts with the amino acids in the top layers of the skin, causing them to turn brown. What can make people turn orange with tanning lotions has nothing to do with the DHA, but has everything to do with your pH balance, or the level of acidity in your skin. When it’s elevated, it’ll cause DHA to pull the reddish tones, leaving skin with an orange coloring. If your pH is low, it will pull the brown tones, creating that just-back-from-the-beach glow. The easiest way to lower your pH balance before using a DHA product is a sunless maximizier. It’s a “balancer” that will bring your pH levels down, helping your tan become richer and darker.

— Michael Blore, California Sun
1316 Blue Oaks Boulevard, Roseville
916-789-1034, californiasun.com

Q: I wash my face two times a day, but it still gets quite oily throughout the day. How can I prevent this from happening?

The amount of oil your facial skin produces is based on genetic and environmental factors. Certain hormonal factors, medications, and rarely, internal diseases can influence this. If any of these are a possibility, consult your doctor. Washing twice daily should be sufficient and excessive washing can lead to even more oil being produced. Moisturizing washes may be too “greasy” for you to use, while some harsh soaps or alcohol-based washes can irritate and dry out your skin initially, causing it to produce more oil later. Choosing the right cleanser, like a foaming one, is important. Using noncomedogenic and non-oily cosmetic products, sunscreens and moisturizers is also crucial. If these measures aren’t enough, certain topical medications (like benzoyl peroxide or retinoids) may need to be added to your regimen. Consult your local dermatologist if these suggestions are not enough to control your oily skin.

— Artur Henke, MD, Placer Dermatology,
9285 Sierra College Boulevard, Roseville
916-784-3376, placerdermatology.com