Five Ingredients Your Clients Should Avoid After a Spray Tan

After giving a flawless spray tan, it's important equip your client with proper knowledge on how to take care of their skin to maintain their glow. Obviously, the best aftercare products to recommend are products that have been formulated to be gentle on a sunless tan. Specifically the products you have stocked and ready for your client to conveniently pick up at their appointment! When looking for aftercare products to carry in your business, or to recommend to your clients, there are common skincare ingredients that spray tan clients should avoid. While the list can be long, here are my top five:

1. Ethanol/Denatured Alcohol

This one can be tricky, as some ingredients listed as alcohol, like "cetyl alcohol" are fatty alcohols that are not drying to the skin, but actually beneficial to skin.  SD alcohol 40, denatured alcohol, ethanol, and isopropyl alcohol are simple alcohols which are dehydrating to the skin Alcohol-based products, such as toners, astringents, and some perfumes, can strip away your spray tan. These products have a drying effect on the skin, which can cause your tan to fade faster. Opt for alcohol-free alternatives to keep your tan looking fresh.

2. Mineral Oil

Mineral Oil is a larger molecule that does not penetrate the skin, but rather sits on top. While other oils are absorbed and work to condition and hydrate the skin, mineral oil actually creates a barrier and can begin to break down the tan that has been formed in the epidermis. This can lead to an uneven fade and patchy areas on your skin. 

3. Exfoliants

Exfoliating is an essential part of skincare, but it's best to avoid harsh exfoliants after spray tanning. Scrubs, loofahs, and exfoliating brushes can remove the top layer of your skin, taking your tan with it. Opt for gentle exfoliation methods, like a soft washcloth or a mild exfoliating cleanser.

4. Acids (except Hyaluronic, of course)

Citric acids, hydroxy acids, retinoids, salicylic acid, malic acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid- you get the picture, right?- they all work to promote cell turnover. As we know, a sunless tan is produced in the outermost layer of skin. If we promote the turnover of this layer, the result is can by flaking, peeling and the shedding of the epidermis and the sunless tan will fade quickly and potentially in an uneven pattern.

5. Urea

Urea is an ingredient that can sometimes be found in products like moisturizers for it's humectant properties. However, Urea is also known for breaking down the stratum corneum (or outermost layer of skin) for effective chemical exfoliation. This is why Urea is a common active ingredient found in many spray tan removers. 

Also Worth a Mention: Sulfates

Sulfates are commonly found in shampoos, body washes, and soaps. These ingredients can strip away the natural oils in your skin, causing your spray tan to fade faster. Look for sulfate-free products to maintain the longevity of your tan.

Again, the list of ingredients that can negatively impact a sunless tan is long. By avoiding these five ingredients, your clients' spray tans will last longer and look more vibrant. Remind your clients to always read the labels of their skincare and beauty products to ensure they are safe to use after spray tanning and be sure to stock plenty of spray tan safe options for your clients to conveniently pick up at their appointment.