Why You Should Avoid Aveeno Before a Spray Tan
We love good skincare just as much as the next person, but when it comes to spray tanning, some products can do more harm than good — and Aveeno moisturisers are one of them.
Every week in the salon, we see at least one client come in with Aveeno on their skin, and we often witness their spray tan developing with an unexpected green tinge. Here's why it happens and what to use instead.
🌿 What’s the Issue with Aveeno?
Aveeno products, especially their moisturisers, are thick, rich, and oat-based, which makes them fantastic for dry skin, but not so great right before a spray tan.
Why?
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These formulas may not fully absorb into the skin before your appointment.
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When the spray tan solution is applied, it can react with residue from the moisturiser.
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This can cause discolouration, such as a green tint, especially during the development stage of your tan.
The reaction isn't dangerous, and in most cases, the final result is still fine, but it doesn’t look great during development and can be unsettling if you're not expecting it.
🚫 What Should You Avoid?
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Avoid using Aveeno or other rich, barrier-style moisturisers for at least 2–3 days before your spray tan.
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Avoid applying any moisturiser on the day of your tan, unless otherwise advised for very dry areas.
If you feel your skin needs a little extra prep, we can apply a spray tan-friendly barrier cream for you during your appointment.
✅ What to Use Instead
For hydrating the skin in the lead-up to your spray tan, opt for light, fast-absorbing, oil-free moisturisers. Our favourites include:
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Garnier 7 Day Moisturising Cream
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Sanex
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CeraVe
These options hydrate your skin without leaving a film or interfering with how the tan develops and adheres.
Final Tip
Don’t panic if you’ve accidentally used Aveeno before your appointment, you’re not alone, and we’ll always do our best to get your tan looking flawless. But to avoid any colour issues or patchiness, it’s best to ditch the Aveeno for a few days pre-tan.