Why Spray Tans Fade Faster in Summer (And What Artists Can Do About It)
, by Lynsey Bennett, 3 min reading time
Every spray tan artist has heard it:
"My tan only lasted a few days."
"It faded unevenly after my holiday."
"My chest disappeared but my legs still looked dark."
During summer, clients are spending more time in the sun, swimming, sweating, exercising, and applying products that can all impact the longevity of their spray tan.
While many clients assume the solution is simply applying a darker colour, experienced artists know that longevity comes down to preparation, product selection, and aftercare education.
Understanding why summer tans fade faster allows you to proactively manage client expectations and deliver better results throughout the busiest season of the year.
Why Summer Accelerates Spray Tan Fade
1. Increased Sweating
Summer heat means clients sweat more frequently.
Sweat itself doesn't remove a developed tan, but excessive perspiration can cause:
- Uneven development during the first 8–24 hours
- Premature breakdown of dead skin cells
- Faster overall exfoliation
Clients who exercise daily or spend long periods outdoors may notice their tan fading sooner than expected.
Artist Tip
Encourage clients to avoid intense exercise, hot yoga, saunas, and excessive sweating until their tan has fully developed.
2. Swimming Pools & Chlorine
One of the biggest summer culprits is chlorine exposure.
Frequent swimming can:
- Dry out the skin
- Accelerate exfoliation
- Cause patchy fading
- Reduce overall tan longevity
Even saltwater can contribute to dryness if clients aren't properly moisturising afterwards.
Artist Tip
Advise clients to rinse immediately after swimming and apply a hydrating moisturiser once their skin is dry.
3. Increased Sun Exposure
Many clients believe a spray tan protects their skin from UV rays.
Unfortunately, it doesn't.
Long days in the sun often lead to:
- Dehydrated skin
- Sunburn
- Peeling
- Uneven fading
When skin begins shedding after sun exposure, the spray tan sheds with it.
Artist Tip
Make SPF recommendations part of every consultation.
A client protecting their skin is also protecting their spray tan investment.
4. Summer Skincare Products
Summer often means introducing new products:
- SPF
- After-sun lotions
- Insect repellents
- Body oils
- Cooling sprays
Many contain alcohols, exfoliating ingredients, or oils that can break down the tan more quickly.
Artist Tip
Ask clients about any holiday skincare products they're planning to use before selecting their tanning solution.
How Spray Tan Artists Can Improve Summer Longevity
Focus on Hydration Before Application
Hydrated skin creates a more even canvas and helps maintain a smoother fade.
Encourage clients to:
- Increase water intake before appointments
- Moisturise regularly in the days leading up to their tan
- Avoid arriving with dehydrated, sun-exposed skin
Prioritise Barrier Areas
Summer activities often highlight common problem zones:
- Hands
- Feet
- Knees
- Elbows
- Ankles
Applying barrier cream correctly helps prevent these areas from becoming overly dark and noticeable as the tan fades.
Educate Every Client on Aftercare
The most successful summer tans often come down to aftercare.
Provide clients with simple guidance:
✓ Moisturise daily
✓ Pat skin dry after swimming
✓ Avoid harsh exfoliants
✓ Use SPF
✓ Stay hydrated
✓ Limit long hot baths
Small habits can dramatically improve results.
Turn Summer Challenges Into Client Loyalty
Summer naturally creates more opportunities for fading, but it also creates more opportunities for spray tan artists to demonstrate expertise.
When clients understand why their tan behaves differently during warmer months, they're less likely to blame the product and more likely to trust your professional guidance.
The artists who educate clients before problems occur are the ones who build stronger relationships, receive more repeat bookings, and maintain consistent results all season long.
By combining correct preparation, professional application, and effective aftercare recommendations, you can help clients enjoy beautiful, longer-lasting tans throughout the summer months.