How Much Do Spray Tans Cost? Prices for Professional vs At-Home

How Much Do Spray Tans Typically Cost?

Spray tanning has become an extremely popular way to achieve a sun-kissed, bronze glow without exposure to UV rays. But how much does it cost to get a spray tan? Prices can vary depending on factors like location, package deals, and any special features or enhancements.

Professional Spray Tan Prices

Getting a spray tan professionally applied at a tanning salon or spa typically costs between $25 and $100 per session. The average price is around $45.

Here are some variables that affect professional spray tanning prices:

• Salon location - Major metros like Los Angeles or New York City tend to be more expensive.
• Reputation of the spa/technician - More upscale, luxury spray tanners often charge higher prices.
• Booth vs airbrush method - Booths are usually more expensive than a technician airbrushing by hand.
• Regular tans vs anti-aging/specialty formulas - Upgraded solutions cost more.
• Package deals - Most places offer discounted packages if you purchase multiple sessions.

Factors That Increase Spray Tan Cost

Certain options can increase the base price of a standard spray tan. These spray tanning "upgrades" typically add $10-$25 onto the normal cost:

• Anti-aging formulas - Contain anti-aging ingredients for tighter, more youthful looking skin.
• Bronzer boosters - Amp up the instant bronzing effect.
• Shimmer add-ins - Give skin a subtle, healthy looking glow.
• pH balancing spray - Helps tan absorb evenly for optimal results.
• Body contouring - Custom application to enhance and define muscles.
• Hand and foot tanning - Extend the tan to the hands/feet for a total body look.

What Impacts Spray Tan Session Length?

The amount of time a spray tanning appointment takes depends on a few factors:

• Booth vs airbrush - Booths take less time, while airbrushing is more involved.
• Size of area being tanned - Whole body takes longer than just legs or torso.
• Add-on services - Contouring, hand/foot tanning, etc extends appointment length.
• New vs repeat client consultation - First timers require more guidance.

In general, expect a basic full body spray tan session to take 30-45 minutes. Smaller targeted tans or repeat clients require less time, while those getting enhancements may need more time.

At-Home Self-Tanner Costs

Self-tanning products allow you to achieve a bronzed glow from the comfort of home. Here are the typical price points for at-home self-tanning options:

Self-Tanning Lotions

• Drugstore brands like Jergens, L'Oreal, Neutrogena: $7 -$15
• Salon brands like St. Tropez, Xen-Tan, TanTowel: $20 - $50

Self-Tanning Sprays

• Drugstore options like LOral and Neutrogena: $10 - $15
• Higher end brands like St. Tropez: $30 - $40

Self-Tanning Wipes/Towelettes

• Single use packets like TanTowel: $5 - $8 each
• Boxes of multiple wipes: $15 - $30

Self-Tanning Drops/Additives

• Small vials to mix into moisturizers: $15 - $30

Drugstore self-tanner prices range from very affordable at just $7-$15 per application, up to $50 for higher end salon brands. Convenience formats like wipes, sprays, and drops cost a bit more but offer easier, mess-free application.

Professional Spray Tans vs Self-Tanners Cost Comparison

Professional spray tans applied in a salon provide the most even, flawless looking results but come at a higher cost. Doing it yourself with self-tanning products is more budget-friendly but requires practice to perfect the application technique.

Here is a cost breakdown assuming two treatments per month for summer:

• Professional spray tans: $45 x 2/month x 3 months = $270
• At home self-tanner: $15 x 2/month x 3 months = $90

Extending the tan to cover a full year assuming one application per month:

• Professional spray tan: $45 x 12 months = $540/year
• At home self-tanner: $15 x 12 months = $180/year

DIY self-tanning is clearly the more budget-friendly option. However, some people find the salon experience easier and think the results are worth the higher cost. Combining professional spray sessions with at-home touch ups can provide a happy medium.

Tips to Save on Professional Spray Tans

Take advantage of these tips to save on your professional spray tan costs:

• Buy spray tan package deals to get each session discounted
• Ask your salon about loyalty programs for return clients
• Look for salon new customer promotions and first-time discounts
• Book your appointments in the salons slower periods to access specials
• Inquire about student, military, or other discounts you may qualify for
• Get a cosmetology school spray tan performed by supervised students

What to Look for in a Quality Spray Tan

To get your moneys worth, seek out these hallmarks of a quality, natural-looking spray tan:

• Even, streak-free color without patches or unevenness
• No orange tone - should look like a realistic tan
• Minimal odor immediately after session
• Fades gradually over 5-10 days vs immediately
• Doesnt transfer onto clothing after properly drying
• No significant stains on palms or bottom of feet
• Feels comfortable on skin - no irritation, burning, etc

Quality spray tan solutions are formulated with additional skin care benefits beyond just the tint. Seek out hydrating, anti-aging, and smoothing ingredients.

Ask About the Tanning Solution

Be sure to ask what brand and type of spray tanning solution your technician uses. Quality salons use reputable professional tanning brands known for flawless, natural-looking results. Common high-end solutions include:

• Norvell
• St. Tropez
• California Tan
• Mystic Tan
• Sjolie
• Vani-T

Higher end solutions incorporate more skin enhancing ingredients like antioxidants, anti-aging peptides, hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, and bronzers that wash off evenly. This improves the results and avoids orange undertones.

Caring for Skin Pre- and Post-Spray Tan

Proper skin prep and aftercare helps maximize spray tan results. Here are some tips:

Before Your Spray Tan Session

• Exfoliate thoroughly to remove dead skin
• Shave at least 24 hours in advance to avoid irritation
• Moisturize dry areas like knees, elbows and hands
• Avoid applying lotion, makeup, perfumes or deodorant before

After Your Spray Tan Session

• Wait at least 8 hours before bathing or swimming
• Rinse with lukewarm water and avoid scrubbing
• Use moisturizer daily to extend the tans lifespan
• Avoid sweaty exercise for 24 hours
• Wear loose, dark clothing to prevent possible transfer

Follow your technicians specific recommendations for preparing skin and caring for your spray tan. This helps the color develop properly and last as long as possible.

Achieve a Gorgeous Golden Glow

Spray tanning allows you to bronze your body safely with natural-looking color. While professional spray tans are an investment, they provide flawless, even results when applied correctly. Doing it yourself at home with self-tanning products is more budget-conscious. And intelligently combining both methods provides the best of both worlds!

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.