Tanning Trends 2025: What’s In and What’s Out in the UK Market
The tanning industry is evolving fast, meaning that UK salon owners need to stay one step ahead. From new tech to changing client expectations, 2025 is shaping up to be the year of smarter, safer, and more tailored tanning experiences. Whether you’re upgrading equipment or reviewing your retail product range, understanding what’s trending (and what’s no longer cutting it) is key to staying competitive.
Here’s a clear breakdown of what’s in and what’s out for the UK tanning market in 2025.
What’s In
1. LED Sunbeds (e.g. Jewel)
LED tanning is making waves in 2025, offering more comfortable experience with faster, more even results. The Jewel LED Sunbed is a prime example, combining cutting-edge LED tech with original tanning lamps in a sleek design that appeals to all clients. With higher tanning performance and lower energy use compared to traditional sunbeds, LED beds are quickly becoming the ‘go-to’ for salons wanting to stand out.
2. Personalised Packages
Life is busier than ever, and people are seeking flexibility! Customised tanning packages based on skin type, schedule, or party prep are performing better than one-size-fits-all bundles. Salons offering a tailored experience are seeing stronger client retention.
3. Skin-Friendly Ingredients
Expect questions about what’s in your lotions. Quality tanning lotions focused on key skincare ingredients are on the rise. Consider stocking well-known ranges like Australian Gold’s best-selling collections:
4. 0.3 Tanning Lamps Compliance
Salons sticking to the 0.3 tanning lamp EU standard are earning client trust. It’s not just about regulation, it’s about safety. Promoting that your sunbeds use compliant lamps reassures clients they’re tanning in a responsible, skin-safe environment.
5. Focus on Client Education
Today’s clients want to know what they’re using and why it matters. Salons that take time to explain the benefits of different lotions, bed types, and tanning schedules are building more trust, and boosting retail sales. Staff training plays a key role here. When your team can confidently talk about product ingredients or the difference accelerators and bronzer, clients are more likely to buy in and come back.
What’s Out
1. Outdated Equipment
Old beds with uneven output or poor ventilation can impact client retention rate. Consider upgrading, especially if you’re competing with chains or new salons with brand new equipment.
2. Overly Aggressive Upselling
Hard selling lotion at reception doesn’t work anymore. Clients value honest, informed recommendations – train staff to educate rather than push. A simple ‘are you using a lotion today?’ question can go a long way.
3. Unlimited Packages with No Limits
Monthly “unlimited” tanning deals are facing pushback. With rising energy costs and growing awareness of safe tanning guidelines, clients are wary of overuse. Time-based or controlled-use packages feel more trustworthy.
4. Neglecting Male Clients
More men are tanning now, but many salons still market only to women. Offering male-friendly products can tap into an under-served segment.
5. Ignoring Social Proof
If your salon doesn’t have online reviews, client selfies, or consistent social content, you’re missing out. A strong online presence builds trust. Show off your results and your team’s expertise.
Choose A Reputable Supplier
Trends in 2025 show that UK tanning clients are more savvy and selective than ever. Salons that invest in modern equipment, smarter packages, and transparent service will stay ahead.
If you're looking to update your salon setup or stock new lotions that align with these trends, the team here at Cyrano can help you stay ahead of the curve.
