Tanning Stickers

Tanning stickers are adhesive shapes (hearts, stars, letters) placed on clean, dry skin before UV exposure. After tanning, removing the sticker reveals a pale silhouette against tanned skin—a quick and low‑tech form of "tan art."

How they work

• Apply to freshly washed, dry skin so the adhesive sits flat.
• Expose to sun or sunbed for the intended period, then remove the sticker to reveal the pale shape.

Practical and safety notes

• Adhesive and occlusion can trap sweat and increase the risk of local irritation or heat rash—avoid leaving stickers on for very long periods in high heat.
• Test any adhesive on an inconspicuous patch if you have sensitive skin.
• Tanning stickers that claim to be "sunproof" vary in quality; simpler, well‑fitted shapes usually give the cleanest edge.

Narrative uses

• Use the reveal as a secret shared between lovers, or as a fleeting, playful mark of holiday mischief.

Example

"She peeled the tiny star from behind her knee; the pale point stared back like a private constellation."
Why: tactile reveal, private meaning.

See also: Tan lines, Tan art, Sunless tanning