Common Summer Spray Tan Challenges (And How to Solve Them)
, by Lynsey Bennett, 4 min reading time
Summer is one of the busiest and most exciting times of year for spray tan artists. Clients are preparing for holidays, weddings, festivals, and special events, all wanting that flawless sun-kissed glow.
But with warmer temperatures comes a unique set of tanning challenges.
From increased sweating to chlorine exposure, summer can impact both the development and longevity of a client's tan. The good news? With the right advice and preparation, you can help your clients achieve beautiful, long-lasting results all season long.
Challenge #1: Excessive Sweating During Development
Summer heat can make the development period more challenging than usual.
Why It Happens
After a spray tan, DHA needs time to develop evenly on the skin. Excessive sweating during this period can interfere with the process, leading to uneven development or lighter areas.
This is particularly common when clients attend outdoor events, exercise, or spend time in hot environments shortly after their appointment.
How To Solve It
Advise clients to:
- Schedule appointments during cooler parts of the day where possible
- Wear loose, dark clothing after their tan
- Avoid exercise, excessive heat, and strenuous activity until after their first rinse
- Stay in cool, air-conditioned environments during development
Setting these expectations beforehand can significantly improve results.
Challenge #2: Swimming Pools and Chlorine
For many clients, summer means spending more time in the pool.
Why It Happens
Chlorine can accelerate the breakdown of DHA, causing spray tans to fade more quickly than expected. Frequent swimming can shorten the lifespan of even the most beautifully applied tan.
How To Solve It
Educate clients on proper aftercare:
- Rinse off with fresh water after swimming
- Pat the skin dry rather than rubbing with a towel
- Moisturise daily to maintain skin hydration
- Consider using a gradual tanning product to refresh their glow during longer holidays
Small habits can make a big difference to tan longevity.
Challenge #3: Uneven Fading During Holidays
One of the most common summer complaints from clients is that their tan fades unevenly while they're away.
Why It Happens
Sun exposure, increased showering, air conditioning, sea water, and chlorine can all contribute to dehydration, causing the skin to shed more quickly.
When skin becomes dry, the tan often fades unevenly.
How To Solve It
Encourage clients to prioritise hydration before and after their appointment.
Daily moisturising is essential, especially when travelling. Well-hydrated skin holds a tan longer and allows it to fade more naturally.
Challenge #4: Last-Minute Holiday Bookings
Every spray tan artist knows the client who calls the day before their flight asking for a tan.
Why It Happens
Many clients leave their tanning appointment until the last minute, leaving little room for development or any adjustments if needed.
How To Solve It
Recommend booking spray tans 24-48 hours before travel whenever possible.
This allows the tan to fully develop, settle naturally, and gives clients confidence before heading away.
It's also the ideal window for weddings, events, and special occasions.
Challenge #5: Dry Skin From Sun Exposure
Summer sunshine may be great for the mood, but it can leave skin feeling dehydrated.
Why It Happens
Increased UV exposure, sea water, air conditioning, and travel can all reduce moisture levels in the skin.
Dry skin absorbs DHA unevenly and can lead to patchy fading.
How To Solve It
As artists, educating clients on skin preparation is one of the most valuable services we provide.
Encourage:
- Regular moisturising leading up to appointments
- Gentle exfoliation before tanning
- Consistent hydration after their treatment
Healthy skin will always produce the best tanning results.
Challenge #6: Clients Expecting Their Spray Tan To Replace SPF
This is a surprisingly common misconception during summer months.
Why It Happens
Many clients associate a bronzed glow with protection from the sun.
Unfortunately, a spray tan provides no UV protection whatsoever.
How To Solve It
Use your consultation to remind clients that their spray tan is purely cosmetic and does not replace sunscreen.
Encouraging safe sun habits not only protects your clients but also reinforces your professionalism and expertise.
The Summer Spray Tan Success Formula
Summer can present unique challenges, but it also provides the perfect opportunity for spray tan artists to demonstrate their knowledge and build stronger client relationships.
By educating clients on preparation, development, hydration, and aftercare, you'll help them enjoy better results and longer-lasting tans throughout the season.
At Lusso Spray Tan, we believe that great tanning results start with great education. When artists understand the challenges their clients face during summer, they can provide expert guidance that keeps clients glowing all season long.
Because the best summer tan isn't just about the application-it's about everything that happens afterwards.