by Kylie, CEO of SunFX
Spray tanning isn’t just about applying color – it’s about creating a flawless, confidence-boosting experience tailored to each client. Over the years, I’ve seen how small adjustments in technique can transform results from good to unforgettable. Here are the key principles I share with our SunFX professionals to elevate their craft ad to keep your clients coming back as well as introducing their friends to you.
The foundation of a flawless tan starts before the spray gun is even turned on. Educating clients to exfoliate 24 hours before their appointment, avoid heavy moisturizers, and arrive with clean, product-free skin ensures the solution bonds evenly. For techs, a light mist of prep spray evens skin pH and removes any unseen residues.
Tips & Advice:
Exfoliation matters: Encourage clients to exfoliate 24 hours before their appointment using mitts, not scrubs with oils. Oils create a barrier that prevents even DHA absorption.. SunFX body wash and body polish will not strip your skins essentials oils nor leave a grease barrier preventing even uptake of DHA.
No lotions or deodorants: Clients should avoid moisturizers, makeup, and antiperspirants on the day of the tan. These products can block solution from adhering.
Balance pH: A quick mist of SunFX Prep Spray before spraying evens out skin pH, removes any residues, and ensures the solution develops consistently.
Hair protection: Provide disposable caps for clients with light or highlighted hair to prevent staining.
A well-prepped canvas means less patchiness, longer-lasting results, and happier clients.
Shop SunFX Prep & Barrier Products to set your clients up for success.
Customization is where your artistry shines—and it starts with the SunFX professional tanning solutions lineup.
Tips & Advice:
Choose the right DHA strength:
Light-medium skin: 8–10% DHA for a natural glow.
Olive/medium skin: 10–12% DHA for a sun-kissed bronze.
Darker skin tones or deep tans: 12–14% DHA for rich depth.
Bronzer undertones: SunFX offers both warm (golden, honey tones) and cool (ash-based) bronzers. Matching undertone to client avoids orange or muddy results.
Additives & luxury touches: Enhance tans with SunFX Scent Drops (lavender, tropical, crisp & fresh, etc.) or SunFX Finishing Powder for an instant luminous finish. These create a custom “spa-like” feel.
Tan goals matter: Spend a moment understanding your clients needs. Ask clients if they want a subtle vacation glow, a bridal-ready shade, or a bold competition tan. Adjust solution choice and layering accordingly.
When clients feel their tan is uniquely designed for them, it boosts loyalty and word-of-mouth referrals.
Elevate your services with SunFX Custom Tanning Additives & Finishing Powders
Professional Spray Tan Application Methods – Achieving a natural, streak-free finish requires consistent technique, proper spray gun distance, and the right blending tools to create seamless coverage across every skin tone.
Even Flow: Keep your spray gun 4–6 inches from the skin and move in smooth, continuous strokes.
Body Mapping: Start with larger areas (back, legs, torso, arms) before refining with detail work on hands, feet, and face.
Blending Tools: Use a SunFX blending brush or blending mitt to perfect tricky areas and soften edges.
Learn more in our SunFX Spray Tan Training programs — available online or in person.
Spray Tan Finishing Techniques & Client Experience – The final moments of a spray tan appointment can make the biggest difference in how clients feel walking out the door. Beyond perfecting the tan itself, small gestures of care create a luxury experience that keeps clients coming back.
Finishing Powder: Apply a light dusting to absorb excess moisture, reduce stickiness, and leave clients feeling fresh.
Quick Drying: Use a fan or the warm air from your spray tan machine to set the tan evenly.
Detail Blending: Revisit wrists, ankles, and neckline with a blending brush for that picture-perfect finish.
Client Comfort: Offer a glass of water or herbal tea
Personalized Service: Take a moment to answer questions, recommend aftercare, and discuss maintenance tips.
Retail Opportunity: Suggest professional-grade SunFX aftercare products so clients leave with everything they need to maintain their glow.
Deliver a five-star service with SunFX Finishing Powder, Brushes & Aftercare Kits.
Technique creates results, but experience builds loyalty.
A calm, confident presence and clear instructions reassure clients that they’re in expert hands, while thoughtful extras make the service feel elevated.
Small gestures — like offering a choice of tanning scents, providing disposable garments for comfort, or giving them a complimentary glass of water post-session — turn a spray tan into a pampering experience.
Taking the time to answer questions, explain aftercare, and recommend retail products ensures clients leave not only glowing but also educated and excited to return. These touches transform a standard appointment into a five-star service, building trust and long-term loyalty.
The art of custom spray tanning is about blending science, skill, and service. When you master the technical side and pair it with a personal touch, your clients don’t just leave with great color-they leave glowing inside and out.
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