How to Start a Spray Tan Business: Complete Step by Step Guide
By Braincuber Team
Published on March 23, 2026
Starting an airbrush spray tanning business is a relatively affordable way to enter the sunless tanning industry. The global spray tanning market generated more than $362 million in 2024 and is expected to see a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.5% between 2024 and 2031. Airbrush spray tanning is particularly popular with clients and aspiring business owners because it's location-flexible, allows customized application, and has low overhead costs.
What You'll Learn:
- Market research techniques for spray tan business success
- Skill development and training options for spray tanning
- Choosing between static and mobile business models
- Business registration and legal requirements
- Essential equipment and supplies needed
- Website development and product curation strategies
- Pricing strategies and marketing tactics
How to Start a Spray Tan Business Step by Step
Research Your Market
Building a successful spray tan business starts with thorough market research. Take time to understand who your customers are, what they want, and how current market meets their needs. This involves gathering data about target audiences and competitors to evaluate demand, learn purchasing motivations, and identify industry trends.
Learn the Craft
Creating the perfect airbrush spray tan is a skill that takes time to perfect. Spray tanning is largely unregulated, so you can self-teach using free online tutorials and practice on old bedsheets. For faster learning, enroll in spray tan training courses from retailers like SunFX and Nuda, with costs ranging from free to over $1,000.
Find Your Space
Choose between static or mobile business models. Static businesses operate from one location (salon or suite) creating consistent branded experiences. Mobile businesses offer on-location services, saving on salon costs but incurring travel expenses. Your decision should depend on market saturation, location availability, and real estate costs.
Form and Register Your Business
Decide on a business structure - typically sole proprietorship or LLC for small businesses. Sole proprietorships offer simplicity but no personal asset protection. LLCs establish your business as separate legal entity, protecting personal assets. Register with applicable federal, state, and local agencies.
Gather Your Supplies
Purchase professional equipment and supplies including spray tanning machine, tent/booth for mobile services, various solution shades, pre-tan and post-tan products, disposable items (hair caps, foot covers), safety equipment, and POS system. Look for starter kits with discounts but compare refill costs.
Build a Website
Your website is essential for service information, bookings, and product sales. Include services, prices, address, hours, and testimonials. Invest in intuitive scheduling system with automated notifications. Shopify users can integrate apps like Apntly, Meety, Bookeasy, or Cowlendar for seamless appointment booking.
Curate a Product Library
Boost income with complementary product sales both in-person and online. Curate skincare brands, aftercare products, and brand-reinforcing items like sunglasses, swimsuits, beach towels, yoga mats, and beauty supplements. Consider creating your own product line like Sugared + Bronzed.
Organize Your Paperwork
Research state and local regulations - while most states don't require special licenses, some regulate spray tanning alongside beauty businesses. Check zoning laws, especially for home-based businesses. Consider general liability insurance even if not legally required, as some commercial leases mandate it.
Set Your Prices
Determine pricing based on market rates and your costs. Research local competition, calculate startup and monthly expenses, estimate profit at average prices, choose positioning strategy (premium vs. value), and set prices that meet revenue goals while maintaining healthy profit margins.
Market Your Business
Develop a comprehensive marketing strategy including social media marketing on platforms where ideal clients spend time, word-of-mouth marketing through loyalty programs and excellent service, and SEO optimization for your website to increase visibility and drive bookings.
Essential Equipment and Supplies
| Equipment Category | Essential Items |
|---|---|
| Core Equipment | Professional spray tanning machine, spray tan tent/booth, POS system |
| Tanning Solutions | Various shades for different skin tones, pre-tan spray, barrier cream, post-tan moisturizer |
| Safety & Disposables | Hair caps, foot covers, disposable underwear, eye shields, nose filters, safety glasses |
Business Model Comparison
Static Business
Operate from one location with consistent branded experience. Higher overhead but increased brand awareness and walk-in traffic potential.
Mobile Business
Offer on-location services with lower overhead and higher service charges. Perfect for events, weddings, and group packages.
Core Skills: Tan preparation and application
Advanced Topics: Troubleshooting and color correction
Science: Skin structure and tanning chemistry
Business: Customer experience, financial planning, marketing
Operations: Equipment care and maintenance
Important Consideration
While certification isn't legally required to start a spray tan business, comprehensive training is essential for quality results and customer satisfaction. Focus on learning skills rather than just completing courses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a spray tan business profitable?
Yes, spray tanning businesses have limited overhead and low startup costs, making them relatively low-risk with high profit potential. Mobile businesses especially benefit from minimal expenses.
Do you need a business license to spray tan?
Most states don't require special spray tan licenses, but check local requirements as many jurisdictions require general business licenses. Some states regulate spray tanning under beauty industry rules.
How much does spray tan equipment cost?
Startup costs range from $1,000-$5,000 for equipment including spray machine, tent, solutions, and disposables. Starter kits may offer discounts but compare long-term refill costs.
Should I choose mobile or static business model?
Mobile offers lower overhead and higher service charges but includes travel time and costs. Static provides consistent branding and walk-in potential but higher rent. Choose based on your market and budget.
What insurance do I need for spray tanning?
General liability insurance is recommended even if not legally required. Some commercial leases mandate coverage. Insurance protects against potential client claims and equipment damage.
Need Help with Your Shopify Store?
Our experts can help you set up your spray tan business website, booking system, and product sales for maximum profitability.