How to Dress as a Spray Tan Artist (Without Ruining Your Clothes or Your Client’s Tan
If you’re a spray tan artist, what you wear to appointments matters more than you think.
It’s not just about looking professional, it’s about preventing tan transfer, maintaining hygiene, and protecting your own clothing.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, here’s exactly how to dress for spray tanning like an expert.
Why Your Outfit Matters as a Spray Tan Artist
Spray tanning is a hands-on, close-contact service, which means your clothing can easily:
• Transfer colour onto clients
• Absorb DHA and stain
• Affect the cleanliness of your workspace
• Impact your professional image
The goal?
✔ Stay clean
✔ Look polished
✔ Avoid ruining expensive clothes
✔ Protect your client’s tan
1. Always Wear Dark Clothing
This is non-negotiable.
Spray tan solution contains DHA, which will stain light fabrics instantly.
Best options:
• Black t-shirt or polo
• Dark activewear
• Black scrubs
Keep a Custom Tan black apron to hand in case you wear the wrong outfit and get a last minute tan booking. This will help protect your clothes!
Avoid:
• White or light colours
• Denim (can transfer dye onto clients)
• Anything delicate or expensive
💡 Pro tip: Keep a dedicated “tanning uniform” so you’re not rotating everyday clothes.
2. Choose Loose, Breathable Fabrics
You’ll be moving, bending, and working in close proximity to clients.
Tight or restrictive clothing can:
• Make you uncomfortable
• Increase sweating (not ideal during tanning)
• Risk brushing against the client’s skin
Best fabrics:
• Cotton
• Moisture-wicking activewear
• Lightweight blends
3. Closed-Toe Shoes Only
Spray tan overspray is real and it will end up on your feet.
Best options:
• Black sneakers
• Closed work shoes
• Easy-to-clean footwear
Avoid:
• Sandals or thongs
• White shoes (they won’t stay white for long)
4. Keep It Minimal & Professional
You want your client to feel confident and comfortable.
Keep it:
• Clean
• Simple
• Neutral
Avoid:
• Busy prints
• Distracting logos
• Overly revealing outfits
Your look should say:
✨ “I’m a professional you can trust.”
5. Hair Tied Back = Non-Negotiable
Loose hair can:
• Brush against freshly sprayed skin
• Leave marks in the tan
• Get in your way while working
Best practice:
• Low bun
• Ponytail
• Clipped back neatly
6. Skip Strong Perfume & Body Oils
This one is often overlooked.
Strong scents or oils can:
• Irritate sensitive clients
• Interfere with the spray tan environment
• Transfer onto the client’s skin
Stick to:
✔ Light or no fragrance
✔ Clean, fresh presentation
7. Wear Gloves When Needed
While not always required, gloves are essential when:
• Blending hands, feet, or face
• Fixing overspray
• Doing detailed work
This keeps:
✔ Your hands stain-free
✔ The application hygienic
✔ The finish seamless
8. Consider a Branded Uniform
If you want to elevate your business:
A simple branded uniform can:
• Build trust instantly
• Make you look more established
• Strengthen your brand identity
Think:
• Black tee with your logo
• Matching set across staff
• Clean, consistent look
9. Keep a Backup Outfit (Trust Me)
Spills happen. Overspray happens.
Always have:
• A spare shirt
• Extra deodorant
• Wipes or towel
Nothing worse than doing back-to-back clients in a stained top.
10. Bonus: What NOT to Wear
Let’s make it simple, avoid these at all costs:
❌ White or light colours
❌ Denim (can transfer onto clients)
❌ Flowy sleeves (can drag through tan)
❌ Jewellery that can touch the client
❌ Anything tight or restrictive
Final Thoughts
Dressing correctly as a spray tan artist isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s part of delivering a flawless, professional service.
When you’re dressed right, you:
✔ Protect your client’s tan
✔ Protect your clothes
✔ Elevate your brand
✔ Feel more confident in your work
Want to Level Up Your Spray Tanning Skills?
At Custom Tan, we don’t just teach you how to tan, we teach you how to run a professional, standout business.
✨ From client prep to perfect application
✨ Product knowledge to pro techniques
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