🚫 Why You Should Avoid Mineral Oils in Spray Tan Products

When choosing a spray tan, most people focus on the final glow—how natural it looks, how long it lasts, and how even the application is. But what’s just as important is what goes into the formula being used on your skin. One of the biggest red flags to watch out for? Mineral oils.

❗ What Are Mineral Oils?

Mineral oils are byproducts of petroleum (yes, the same stuff used to make fuel), and they are commonly added to cosmetics and skincare to create a smooth texture and seal moisture. While that may sound harmless or even beneficial, mineral oils are not suitable for spray tanning—and here's why.

🚫 Why Are Mineral Oils Bad in Spray Tans?

1. Barrier to DHA: Mineral oil creates a film over the skin, which can interfere with the absorption of DHA—the active ingredient in spray tans that reacts with the top layer of your skin to create that golden glow. This can lead to streaky, uneven, or faded results.

2. Clogged Pores & Breakouts: Mineral oils are occlusive, meaning they trap everything underneath them—including sweat, bacteria, and dead skin. This can lead to breakouts, especially on the back, chest, or face.

3. Skin Irritation: While not everyone reacts to mineral oil, some people with sensitive or acne-prone skin may experience irritation, inflammation, or dryness.

🧴 Hidden Names for Mineral Oil Ingredients

Many brands don’t simply list “mineral oil” on their ingredient list. Instead, they use technical or scientific names. Here are some common terms you’ll find on labels that are actually derived from mineral oil:

📌 Refer to the image for the full list, but here are a few highlights:

Paraffinum Liquidum

Petrolatum

Cera Microcristallina

Isoparaffin

Hydrogenated Polyisobutene

Polybutene

Synthetic Wax