Ingredients to Avoid with a Spray Tan

Okay so you just got your first spray tan… and now you're wondering what to do to keep it lasting longer? The most important thing with a tan is prep and aftercare so let's dive right in!

If you're getting a spray tan in Vancouver, your skin is most likely dry which means body lotion is your best friend! But have you looked at the back of the lotion bottle to see what's inside? There are certain ingredients to avoid with a tan to make sure your tan is both fading evenly and lasting as long as possible. 

It's best to avoid the following ingredients while you have a spray tan:

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) & Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)
Mineral Oil
Baby Oils
Perfume or Body Spray – Avoid spraying directly on skin, spray on clothes instead.
Alcohol (especially Isopropyl Alcohol) – If you cannot avoid it completely then ensure it is listed at the end of the ingredient list meaning there is less of it.
Retinol & Vitamin A – Including prescription strength like Tretinoin or Tazorac.
Aerosol Sunscreen
Hair Removal Products or Skin Bleaching
Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, AHA, BHA or Salicylic Acid
Bug Spray
Benzoyl Peroxide
Essential Oils
Chlorine & Salt Water – not a product per-se but will cause your tan to fade prematurely.

These can strip your colour, cause patchiness, or shorten the life of your tan! Yes, the list is long and everybody's skin is different so the best thing to do – go bare! Stick to a gentle cleanser, hydrating moisturizer and SPF on your face and a hydrating body lotion or tan extender. Follow this and the perfect prep routine and you're golden!

With love & SPF, 
Katie