If you've ever peeled off your swimsuit at the end of a holiday to find stark white tan lines, you'll understand the appeal of tan-through swimwear. It's a clever fabric innovation designed to give you a more even, natural tan without having to sunbathe topless or constantly reposition your straps. Here's everything you need to know.
What is tan-through swimwear?
Tan-through swimwear is made from a special lightweight fabric with thousands of tiny micro-perforations. These pores are far too small to see at a glance, but they're large enough to let a meaningful amount of sunlight pass through the material. That means the skin underneath your swimsuit still catches the sun, so you're left with far fewer harsh tan lines than you'd get from ordinary swimwear.
How does tan-through fabric actually work?
Traditional swimwear fabric is woven densely to be completely opaque, which blocks UV light entirely, leaving pale patches wherever the fabric sits. Tan-through fabric is engineered with a much more open structure. Enough sunlight filters through the tiny perforations to gently tan the skin beneath, while the fabric still keeps you covered and looks solid to everyone around you. At Laura Jayne, our tan-through pieces use an 81% special polyester and 19% Lycra blend that's soft, stretchy and quick-drying.
Does tan-through swimwear really work?
Yes, tan-through swimwear genuinely helps reduce tan lines, though it's worth setting the right expectations. Because the fabric only lets a portion of the sun's rays through, the skin under your swimsuit tans a little more slowly and gently than exposed skin. Over a few days in the sun, that adds up to a much more even overall tan. Think of it as softening your tan lines rather than eliminating them completely.
Important: because some UV passes through the fabric, the skin underneath is not fully protected from the sun. Always apply a suitable SPF sunscreen to your whole body, including the areas covered by tan-through swimwear, and reapply regularly. Tan responsibly and avoid the hottest part of the day.
Is tan-through swimwear see-through?
This is the most common worry, and the answer is no. Although the fabric lets light through, the perforations are microscopic and the print sits on top, so your swimwear looks completely solid and opaque to anyone looking at you. You get the tanning benefit without any loss of coverage or confidence.
The benefits at a glance
- Fewer tan lines for a smoother, more even all-over tan.
- No need to go topless or fuss with untying straps.
- Lightweight and quick-drying, so it's comfortable straight out of the water.
- Flattering, stylish designs that don't compromise on coverage.
How to care for tan-through swimwear
To keep the fabric performing well, rinse your swimwear in cool water after each wear to remove chlorine, salt and sun cream. Hand wash gently in cold water, avoid wringing, and dry it flat away from direct heat. Skip the tumble dryer and harsh detergents, which can damage the delicate fibres over time.
Shop tan-through swimwear at Laura Jayne
Our UK-designed collection features statement one-shoulder swimsuits and mix-and-match bikinis in bold, one-of-a-kind prints, all made from tan-through fabric. Browse the full tan-through collection here, or read more on our What is Tan-Through? FAQ page.
Frequently asked questions
Do I still need sunscreen with tan-through swimwear?
Yes, absolutely. The fabric offers only partial sun protection, so apply and reapply SPF over your whole body, including covered areas.
How long does it take to tan through the fabric?
It's more gradual than exposed skin, so you'll notice a more even tan building over a few days of sun rather than instantly.
Will it work under a cloudy sky?
Tanning is driven by UV, which is strongest in direct sun. You'll see the best results in bright, sunny conditions.
