How to Become a Spray Tan Artist: The Complete Beginner’s Guide

If you’ve been dreaming about starting your own beauty business or adding a new skill to your service menu, becoming a spray tan artist might be exactly what you’re looking for. Spray tanning is one of the fastest growing areas in the beauty industry and it’s a business that gives you flexibility, freedom, and the ability to make people feel confident every single day.

As the owner of Seven Sunless, I’ve seen firsthand how learning this skill can completely change someone’s life. Whether you want to work part-time from home, open your own studio, or build a full-blown luxury brand, spray tanning gives you endless opportunity when you have the right foundation.

Here’s everything you need to know to get started.

1. Learn the Art of Spray Tanning

The first step in becoming a spray tan artist is education. Spray tanning is a skill that requires proper training, practice, and understanding of skin tones, undertones, and technique. While it may look simple, there’s so much that goes into creating a flawless, natural-looking tan.

Look for a training that covers more than just technique. You want to learn about client experience, customization, color theory, business setup, and marketing. A great training will help you build both confidence and clarity so that you feel ready to take clients the moment you’re certified.

If you’re just starting out, I always recommend choosing a course that’s structured, beginner-friendly, and gives you access to continued support. That’s exactly why I created my online and in-person Seven Sunless Spray Tan Training — it walks you through every part of building a successful spray tan business from technique to business strategy.

2. Invest in Quality Equipment and Solutions

Once you’re trained, you’ll need the right tools. Your spray tan machine, tent, lighting, and solutions are all key to the quality of your work.

Start with the basics:

• A reliable spray tan machine with adjustable settings
• A professional spray tan tent or dedicated workspace
• A variety of high-quality tanning solutions so you can match every client’s skin tone
• Prep and finishing products like pH balancing spray and drying powder

You don’t need to buy the most expensive gear right away. Focus on quality, not quantity, and build your setup as your business grows.

3. Practice, Practice, Practice

Confidence comes from repetition. Once you’ve completed your training, start practicing on friends, family, or models who can give you honest feedback.

Every tan will teach you something new. You’ll start to notice the difference between skin types, how different undertones react to various solutions, and how to adjust your technique for flawless results.

Don’t rush this phase. The more practice you get, the more natural your process will become.

4. Build Your Business

Once you feel confident in your technique, it’s time to start setting up your business. This part can feel overwhelming, but it’s actually where the fun begins because it’s where your dream becomes real.

You’ll need to decide on a business name, set up your social media accounts, and make sure your business is registered properly. You’ll also want to start thinking about pricing, branding, and how to create an experience that makes clients come back again and again.

If you’re not sure where to start, my Business 101 training covers everything from legal setup to pricing for profit. It’s the kind of information I wish I had when I was first getting started.

5. Start Marketing Yourself

Now that you’re ready to take clients, it’s time to let people know what you do. Social media is one of the most powerful tools you have as a new spray tan artist.

Start posting before and after photos, behind-the-scenes clips, and share your story. People connect to authenticity, so don’t be afraid to show who you are.

Networking with other local beauty professionals can also open doors. Connect with photographers, makeup artists, and bridal stylists in your area — spray tanning fits naturally into all of those industries.

6. Focus on Client Experience

This is the part that sets great spray tan artists apart. A flawless tan is important, but how you make your clients feel matters even more.

Create a welcoming, comfortable environment and communicate clearly from start to finish. Educate your clients on how to prep before their appointment and how to care for their tan afterward.

When clients feel cared for, they tell their friends — and that’s how you build a loyal client base that keeps your business thriving.

7. Keep Learning and Growing

The beauty industry changes fast, and there’s always something new to learn. Stay connected with other professionals, take refresher courses, and continue refining your technique.

Your growth as an artist will directly reflect in your success as a business owner.

Becoming a spray tan artist is more than just learning how to use a spray gun — it’s about building a business that gives you freedom, confidence, and community.

If you’ve been thinking about starting your journey, this is your sign. You already have the passion, now it’s time to learn the skills and take action.

You can explore our online and in-person training options below.

Your dream business is closer than you think.