2. Beta Hydroxy Acids: BHA, or beta-hydroxy acid, is a chemical exfoliant used in skincare products similar to AHAs. The distinction is that BHAs tend to be more mild and also target the pores. So while the above AHA target surface level things like wrinkles, clogged pores will be the target for BHAs. When you see “salicylic acid”, you can almost always think BHA as it relates to skincare but be sure to double check ingredients and confirm with your trusted, qualified professional if you have any concerns. BHAs go deeper into the skin cell to encourage a natural shedding of the dead cells. While less abrasive than AHA, this oil-soluble solution is equally effective at exfoliation and will cause your spray tan to fade through its exfoliating mechanism. We recommend you avoid both AHAs and BHAs where possible while you have your spray tan.

4. Bar Soaps: Aside from the obvious physical abrasion that accompanies using a bar soap on your face or skin directly via the physical force of applying the soap to your skin, the ingredients in bar soap can sometimes prove to be harsh enough to disrupt your skin barrier. This adjusts how you can expect your tan to penetrate the skin which will alter how effective the application of the spray tan ends up being. You should be especially mindful of bar soap that affects your skin’s pH. Higher pH, for example, would strip the natural oils from your skin & thus speed up the fading process.  

5. Retin A: This is an effective ingredient that has anti-aging benefits. As we’ve already discussed, anti-aging properties are focusing specifically on cell turnover. This is a very good thing but the promotion of fresh skin only means that your spray tan will fade faster. This is why as a part of your spray tan preperation, we recommend you atleast monitor how fast your spray tan fades and be aware of this interaction. If you are able to hold off on habitual use while you have your tan, you can expect it to last longer. Otherwise, you can atleast be aware and adjust your expectations if it’s something you understandably feel you can not go without. Also be mindful of any skin sensitivities on the rare chance they might occur.

6. Exfoliation via shaving: More along the line of physical exfoliation, shaving removes dead skill cells along with hair. This is another example that is best to be aware of and adjust your expectations accordingly. We suggest considering using electric razors which can mitigate the exfoliation process. If continuing your own shaving process includes razers, try to maintain a sharp blade in your razer. A dull blade will only perform exfoliation significantly more than a sharp, fresh razer which will be more effective at removing the hair in fewer passes.

7. Extended submersion: We included this one to make sure you aware this is much less about the type of water and moreso the water itself. Whether it be a chlorinated pool, a beach, a lake, etc, the presence of water and be soaked into it for an extended period of time is what accelerates the fading of your tan. It’s important to note this for those in particular who prefer longer baths where you are full soaked. When submerged, water is permeating your skin and loosening those dead skin cells on top. These skin cells which are the first to be naturally removed are your spray tanned ones. Extended submersion in water encourages the loosening and removal of your spray tan via this process natural skin cell turnover. So remember, long exposures to any water is the culprit here. If you are “pruning” you know your spray tan is at risk of fading much faster.