this invention relates to a topical sunless tanning composition , in particular a topical sunless tanning composition which provides an immediate colour effect . there is much interest in effectuating a tan via cosmetic means . most prominent among the sunless tanning agents is dihydroxyacetone . however , a problem with using dha to tan the skin is the length of time it takes for the skin to develop colour . thus , in a first aspect of the invention , a topical sunless tanning composition is provided , the topical sunless tanning composition comprising : 0 . 01 - 10 , preferably 0 . 1 - 5 w / w a polyphenol selected from the group consisting of - catechin , - catechin , - epicatechin , - epicatechin , epigallocatechin gallate , - epigallocatechin , - catechin gallate , epicatechin gallate , or mixtures thereof ; a peroxidase or laccase 0 . 0001 - 3 preferably 0 . 001 - 1 , most preferably 0 . 01 - 1 w / w hydrogen peroxide or a hydrogen peroxide generator when peroxidase is present ; and a dermatologically acceptable vehicle .