The Truth About Competition Tanning: What Nobody Tells Bikini and Figure Athletes
Your tan can make or break your placing in a bikini or figure competition.
I've seen countless athletes nail their prep, only to blow it in the final week with a botched tan.
Here's the raw truth about competition tanning – no BS, no fluff, just what actually works.
Why Your Competition Tan Is More Important Than You Think
Most competitors focus on:
- Their peak week protocol
- Last-minute posing tweaks
- Suit adjustments
But here's what they miss:
Your tan is what makes your definition POP on stage.
It's the difference between looking soft and looking shredded – even at the same body fat percentage.
The Real Cost of Bad Competition Tanning
I'll be straight with you:
A bad tan will cost you more than just money.
It'll cost you:
- Placings you deserved
- Months of prep work
- Your confidence on stage
And trust me, judges notice.
Professional Spray Tanning vs. DIY: The Truth
Here's the deal with DIY tanning:
It's like trying to do your own dental work.
Could you? Maybe. Should you? Absolutely not.
Professional competition spray tanning costs anywhere from £150-300.
Seems expensive until you consider:
- You've already spent thousands on prep
- Your tan is 30% of your overall stage look
- One mistake can ruin your entire presentation
The Perfect Competition Tanning Timeline
Here's exactly what to do:
7 Days Out:
- Stop all regular tanning
- Begin exfoliating daily
- No oils or lotions
3 Days Out:
- Final exfoliation
- Book your base coat appointment
- Stop using deodorant
24 Hours Before:
- Get your base coat applied
- Wear loose, dark clothing
- No water on your skin
Day of Show:
- Final coat application
- Use barrier cream on palms and feet
- Stay dry until prejudging
Common Tanning Disasters and How to Avoid Them
I see these mistakes constantly:
- Going too dark
- Not prepping the skin properly
- Using regular sunless tanner
- Trying to DIY at the last minute
- Getting wet between coats
Products That Actually Work
Let's cut through the marketing BS.
For competition tanning, these are the only products worth your money:
Professional Brands:
- Pro Tan
- Jan Tana
- Dream Tan
Essential Extras:
- Barrier cream
- pH balanced shower products
- Post-show tan remover
The Truth About Tanning and Your Definition
Here's something most people don't realize:
Your tan doesn't just make you darker.
It creates an optical illusion that:
- Deepens muscle separation
- Enhances cross-striations
- Makes you look leaner instantly
FAQs
Q: Can I order closer to my show date?
A: Absolutely! Our 7-day production time allows for last-minute orders, but you’ll have less time for alterations.
Q: What if my weight loss is more dramatic than expected?
A: No worries. Just communicate your changes early, and we’ll ensure the fit is perfect with our free alteration service.
Q: How do you predict my measurements?
A: We use a combination of your provided goals and our experience working with thousands of competitors.
Competition tanning isn't just about getting dark.
It's about presenting your physique in the best possible way after months of hard work.
Don't leave it to chance.
Book a professional, follow the protocol, and show up looking like you mean business.
Your tan might just be the edge you need to move up a placing.
And in this sport, every advantage counts.
Remember: Your competition tan is the frame for the masterpiece you've spent months creating.
Make it count.
