How to Train and Educate Your Spray Tanning Staff

Hi there,
I’m Kylie, CEO of SunFX, and I’ve had the incredible privilege of working with hundreds of amazing spray tan artists, salon owners, and solo technicians world wide. One thing I’ve learned through the years is that the most successful sunless tanning businesses have one powerful thing in common: a well-trained, confident team.

If you’re hiring or expanding your team, training shouldn’t just be a checklist—it should be part of your brand’s heart and soul. Because in our industry, every tan is personal, and every technician is a walking ambassador for your business.

Here’s how I recommend training and educating your spray tanning staff to ensure they deliver glowing results—and a customer experience to match.

sunfx applicator training

1. Start With Your Brand Philosophy

Before anyone even picks up a spray gun, make sure your team understands why you do what you do. At SunFX, we believe in natural, healthy tanning with the cleanest ingredients possible. We believe in skin confidence. Whether you’re focused on wellness, luxury, or convenience, sharing that mission helps your team connect to the work in a deeper way.

People don’t just want color—they want care. And your team is your first chance to deliver that.

2. Prioritize Technique & Product Knowledge + Give Them Access to Online Certification

No one feels confident recommending or applying a product they don’t fully understand. Your staff needs to know what they’re using—inside and out.

  • Make sure they are confident in their application technique
  • Train your team on each solution’s features: dry times, undertones, DHA strength, and who it’s best for.
  • Teach when to choose a rapid rinse vs. a traditional tan, or when bronzer-free is best.
  • Let them experience the difference in texture, scent, and finish.

💻 At SunFX, we make this easy with our Online Certification & Training Program.
It includes video-based instruction, detailed product breakdowns, and technique tutorials that staff can revisit any time. Whether your technician is brand new or just needs a refresher, our training gives them the confidence to deliver consistent, professional results—every time.

When your team knows their products, they don’t just apply a tan—they become trusted experts. And that’s where the magic really happen.

To read more about our Certification CLICK HERE

3. Teach Technique Through Repetition

One of the most effective ways to build confidence and consistency in spray tanning is by teaching technique through repetition. Mastery doesn’t happen overnight—it comes from doing the same movements again and again until they become second nature. By guiding your team  through repeated practice of each spray pattern, blend, and finishing step, you help develop muscle memory and build a foundation of precision. Repetition not only boosts their technical skill but also increases their speed, efficiency, and ability to deliver flawless results every time. The more they practice, the more instinctive—and professional—their spray tan technique becomes. 

I recommend making sure that you allow your staff to regularly spray each other. Not only does this help with technique, it’s also a great marketing tool—having your staff trained and glowing. Another benefit is that they can provide constructive feedback to each other

Technique takes time and muscle memory. Don’t rush this part. Whether you’re training with our signature SunFX spray tan method or adapting your own approach, your staff should:

  • Practice on live models with various skin tones and body types

  • Be able to assess their work and results 24 to 48 hrs later

  • Learn to troubleshoot common application issues

  • Practice proper spray gun maintenance and hygiene

Encourage feedback, record sessions, and let your artists see their progress. Every streak-free tan is a confidence builder.

4. Customer Communication Is Everything

A flawless tan means nothing if your client walks away confused or underwhelmed. Teach your staff how to:

  • Explain pre- and post-care clearly

  • Talk about rinse times in plain language

  • Recommend the right aftercare products

  • Handle nervous first-timers with warmth and empathy

I always remind our team that spray tanning is intimate. Clients may be vulnerable, so your energy matters just as much as your technique.

5. Keep Education Ongoing

Even after your team is trained, the learning shouldn’t stop. Stay on top of trends like violet-based tans or shimmer serums. Host refresher classes, send out technique tip emails, or hop on a monthly Zoom to talk about wins and challenges.

At SunFX, we regularly update our education library and offer ongoing support because we believe great artists never stop learning—and that’s what keeps your business growing.

6. Celebrate Their Wins

Training is important, but celebrating your team’s growth is just as vital. Highlight client reviews. Celebrate 5-star tans. Share before-and-afters. Make your staff feel like the rockstars they are—because happy, confident artists create loyal, glowing clients.

At the end of the day, educating your spray tanning staff isn’t just about skill—it’s about culture. It’s about building a business where everyone feels proud of the glow they help deliver.

If you ever need support, know that SunFX is here for you. We’re more than a brand—we’re your partner in confidence, results, and long-term success.

Stay glowing,
Kylie
CEO, SunFX America

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