A Look Back: The Tan-Through Comeback

Tan-through swimwear might feel like the newest thing on the beach, but the idea has been around for decades. Back in the 1970s, skincare pioneer Piz Buin—best known for its iconic sunscreens—experimented with both tan-through creams and early fabrics designed to let sunlight through. Some of these early designs are even documented in the Sea Museum Collections, showing how brands were eager to merge style with science.

Fast forward to the 1980s and 1990s, when UK-based company Kiniki began refining the concept with lightweight materials full of microscopic pores. The idea was simple: let the sun’s rays pass through the fabric to minimize tan lines, while keeping the swimwear opaque to the eye. The innovation gained a cult following, even if the fabrics of the time weren’t always as comfortable or protective as today’s versions.

For a while, the trend quieted. Concerns about UV safety and the limits of fabric technology meant tan-through swimwear never fully broke into the mainstream. But innovation didn’t stop. Textile makers, such as those featured on FuzhouTextile.com, continued experimenting, while modern brands like BetterTan helped revive interest with smarter, breathable fabrics.

Today’s tan-through swimwear is a comeback story done right. New designs combine better prints, improved linings, and built-in sun protection, making them more practical than the early prototypes ever were. What used to feel like a risky fad is now a smart way to enjoy an even glow without the drawbacks of old-school tanning.

Takeaway: Tan-through technology isn’t just a passing trend—it’s a refined idea that keeps evolving. As always, remember to treat your skin with care: use sunscreen, take breaks in the shade, and practice sun safety, even in the smartest swimwear.