It’s no secret that getting regular spray tan sessions can get expensive, and there can be the hassle of getting to and from the salon, as well as making time which you can confidently dedicate for your appointment.
Spray tanning at home can save time and money in the long run, so here are some of the best machines to get you started.
Let’s jump in!
Best spray tan machines for home use
Norvell Spray Tan Airbrush Machine
If you’re looking for the best of the best, this Norvell spray tanning system is perfect for you, as it’s very professional, and comes with all the products you need to get started. Despite its advanced technology and processes, this is actually perfect for beginners and even comes with a training program so you can perfect your technique.
As one of the leading spray tan companies in the industry, you can be sure of only the best quality products from Norvell.
When it comes to getting refills, it’s not difficult to find ones to suit this machine, and Norvell have so many different choices available, specifically to suit your needs. In terms of price, this may seem like a lot of money at first but think about how much you’ll save in the long run, as you’ll only have to buy more spray tan occasionally when it runs out.
When you buy this set, you also save around $200 compared to buying each individual product on its own.
- BUNDLE INCLUDES: Norvell M-1000 HVLP Mobile Spray System; Norvell Tanning Handheld Solutions - Ultra Vivid 'Cosmo' 8oz, Venetian 8oz and Dark 8oz; Norvell Training Program.
- PROFESSIONAL #1 BRAND: Norvell Sunless Rated #1 Professional Sunless Tanning Brand by Professional Spray Tan Artists/Technicians October 2017 (Research conducted by Fieldwork/Webwork International Inc., a global leading market research company).
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Tips:
- Read the included training program and learn how to use the machine in the best way possible.
- Remember that practice makes perfect, so don’t worry if you’re not entirely happy with your first application – you’ll soon learn.
- Ask for someone to give you a little help with your first application, especially on areas like your back, as this can be difficult, and an extra set of eyes is always a good idea.
Belloccio Premium T75 Spray Tanning System
If you’re looking for a more affordable spray tan solution, this one doesn’t even cost $100 and the kit includes a spray tanning machine and gun, a user’s guide, a video guide for beginners and a bottle of spray tan to get started with. If the upfront cost is holding you back from the spray tan of your dreams, there’s no reason now!
A machine is a HVLP machine, which is the best option for at-home use. It isn’t too loud to operate and creates a fast-drying and non-sticky tan!
- Belloccio Premium Model T75 Professional HVLP Turbine Spray Tanning Machine
- FREE 4 oz. Bottle of Belloccio Opulence, A superior DHA tanning solution that's simply the best on the market
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Tips:
- Research about what spray tan formulas you can use for this machine and buy some backups for when the first bottle runs out so you’re never completely out!
- Put the time into watching the instruction video to get the best use out of your machine.
- This machine is best for home use, so it may not hold up as well in a salon where there is a constant flow of customers.
MaxiMist Lite Plus HVLP Spray Tanning System
Just like the one before, this system is a HVLP one, so it’s perfect for your personal use and doesn’t create lots of noise. It comes with a 1-year warranty – great for any mishaps you might have when you’re still getting used to using the machine – as well as a few bottles of spray tan included.
This spray tan formula is 100% vegan, cruelty-free, and made with natural and organic ingredients – what’s more to ask for!
When creating this machine, they really thought about everything, including making the most out of each spray tan bottle. Do you ever find it annoying when you can never get the last of a product out of a bottle because the spray doesn’t reach all the way to the bottom? On this spray gun, the reservoir is a unique shape to make sure there’s no wasted product – saving you money!
- Home/Mobile/Backup unit for 10 plus applications a day. Very Beginner Friendly on board gun storage Lightweight Mobile design.
- Detailed Instruction Manual Spare parts kit included Complete New HVLP System ready to spray out of the box
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Tips:
- Store the included spray tan solutions in a cool, dark place and use within 90 days of opening to ensure they stay fit for use.
- Use the spray gun about 8-12 inches away from the body for smooth results.
- Move the gun side-to-side to spray most of the body, but go up and down on the sides and the arms for a streak-free application.
Sun Laboratories Sunless Spray Tan Machine
Just like the others, this kit comes with everything you need to get started on your spray tan journey, but also one additional thing which is often forgotten: a spray tanning tent. Some people argue that these tents are 100% necessary, but they can make a big difference to you if you spray tan often (more on that later).
For a gorgeous bronze colour, you can’t go wrong with this machine, or the tan included. It creates a smooth, streak-free texture and this is shown through all their happy customers!
- At Home Spray Tan Bundle includes: Sunless Spray Tanning System with spray gun and hose, 1-Extra Large "Skylight" Style Spray Tanning Tent , 1-16 oz Sun Laboratories Ultra dark Spray Tanning Solution, 1-Sun Laboratories Tanning Mitt:
- DARK - SUN LABORATORIES AIRBRUSH TANNING SOLUTION: We have searched the farthest corners of the world for this wondrous blend of totally natural ingredients not only to provide your skin with the best sunless tan possible but also to nourish, revitalize, hydrate and enhance the elasticity of your skin all at the same time, And all Paraben Free
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Tips:
- Remember that this product does not contain any sun protection, so don’t be fooled by your new bronze – you could still burn – and make sure to wear sunscreen.
- Use the tanning tent provided to prevent any product getting on furniture, wall, etc, and make cleaning up very easy.
- Make use of the mitt provided by using it to blend out any areas which need it after applying the spray tan.
FAQ
Do I need a spray tan tent as well?
Spray tan tents are small pop-up tents that you can stand in for a spray tan and put away afterward. The purpose of them is to protect furniture, walls, and anything else from the spray tan and prevent them from staining. You don’t need a spray tan tent, but it’s highly recommended if you want to keep your space clean and tidy. It also saves any additional cleaning.
- Sjolie Sunless logo printed Carry Case and Tent, available in black for a visually attractive look and concealing color to mask any over spray
- Among the largest tents on the market, measuring 96 in x 48 in x 48 in with a 6 ft door to fit clients comfortably
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Also read:
How Do You Clean Your Spray Tan Tent? (2 Methods Explained)
If I buy a spray tan machine, can I spray tan myself without any help?
When you have your spray tan machine, you can apply the spray tan yourself, but keep in mind that it takes a little while to get used to, so the results may not be perfect on the first go. Because of this, you might want to have someone help you, especially for areas like the back.
If you already applied self-tanner on yourself, spray tan shouldn’t be too much of a problem as it’s pretty similar. Just makes sure to follow any necessary preparations and instructions carefully.
Do these kits offer different tan shades?
Obviously, different kits have different options, but most spray tan kits do offer different shades so you can control the colour you go. The different shades available work exactly the same as those of a self-tanner – the darker the shade, the darker you’ll go – so it’s good to decide what colour you want to be after your spray tan and then choose your shade based on this.
I’m out of spray tan formula. Where can I buy it?
Your spray tan machine requires a formula to spray on your body and give it a gorgeous colour, but it will eventually run out and the machine won’t work without it. Usually, the spray tan machine comes with a few cans of formula to start with, so you should try to buy the same thing.
If you go to the website you got the tanning machine from, they will probably have refills available there. You could try using refills from other brands too, but make sure they’re suited for your type of machine and be aware the results may not be as good.
- VENETIAN PLUS SUNLESS SOLUTION: In less time than you can fly to the European Riviera, and minus the jet lag, you can get the same deep, rich colour that you crave. An exotic sunless formula with a unique combination of violet and brown tone bronzers, designed to mimic skin colours found on the beautiful beaches of the European Riviera. This first of its kind, deliberate and innovative formulation blends with all skin tones to produce a deep, long lasting tan.
- FEATURES AND BENEFITS: The quality of DHA used in sunless products is directly related to the outcome of your sunless tan. Natural Enzymes to repair weak, dehydrated skin and promote the efficiency of the bodys own natural moisturization factor. Unique dermal barrier locks DHA within the top layer of skin. Formulated without Parabens, Gluten, Sulphates, Phthalates, Synthetic Fragrance, Petrochemicals, GMOs, Triclosan. This product is designed for use in all airbrush/HVLP systems.
- SUNLESS TANNING HANDHELD SOLUTION: Each formulation within our SJOLIE collection is meticulously crafted for effortless application. It sprays on evenly with minimal overspray, giving you a kiss of golden color all year round.
- SKINCARE MEETS TANNING SOLUTION: We've harnessed the skincare benefits of Aloe Vera. Aloe Vera deeply moisturizes the skin, while the DHA actively develops your new tan. Aloe vera also extends your tan’s life by up to three days compared to other brands! While it might feel slightly thicker on the skin during tan development, the results are well worth it as you'll enjoy a radiant glow for days!
- 5.3-ounce can of Neutrogena Micromist Airbrush Sunless Gradual Tanning Spray in Medium Intensity provides a fast, easy self-tan that's two shades darker than your skin tone
- This sunless self-tanning mist applies like a professional airbrush spray by delivering an ultra-fine-mist for simple, even coverage and a gorgeous, sunless tan all over your body
- Long-lasting, natural-looking tan: Body Botanicals sunless tanning solution provides a natural-looking, sun-kissed tan that lasts for up to 7-10 days. Unlike other sunless tanning products, it won't leave your skin looking orange or streaky, making it perfect for those who want a natural-looking glow.
- Made with organic ingredients: Body Botanicals uses only the highest quality organic ingredients in their sunless tanning solution, ensuring that you're getting a product that's free from harmful chemicals and additives. This means that it's safe to use on all skin types, including those with sensitive skin.
- OLIVE BASE: Our original green base formula. Olive maximizes your skin’s deepest potential, capturing your natural skin color and amplifying it with super dark results, all in as little as one hour.
- COLOR BASE TAN: Like choosing your hair color or cosmetics, with our color base tans you can customize your spray tan according to your desired skin finish. Color base tans contain a unique set of bronzers to generate different tones of brown and can be selected based on your desired end result and skin finish. It doesn’t matter what your skin type or tone is, all our color base tans suit all types.
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Compared to studios, is it worth buying a spray tan machine?
When comparing an at-home spray tan machine with a studio spray tan, there are a few things you need to consider and weigh up what matters the most to you.
- An at-home spray tan machine obviously works out as much cheaper than a studio spray tan
- You may find it more difficult to spray tan yourself at first, or need someone to help you
- You can control what colour you go when you spray tan yourself, which you can’t at a studio
- You don’t need to book an appointment or go anywhere when you use an at-home machine
Spray tan cost comparison table
If you’re happy with doing the spray tan yourself, an at-home machine is definitely worth it.
Are there different types of spray tan machines?
Yes – there are in fact different types of spray tanning machines – but they are all still pretty similar. The three main types are airbrush, HVLP (high volume low pressure), and LVLP (low volume low pressure) systems.
If you are wondering which one you should choose, they all have their own benefits, so you should probably do your research about each of them to see which best suits your needs.
Final thoughts
There are many benefits to buying your own spray tanning machine, and they can be much more convenient and cost-effective. If you don’t know where to start, or what you need, this article should have given you all the information required to get going and start spray tanning yourself.
And remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be frustrated if your first attempt isn’t as smooth as you’d hoped because it will improve with time!
