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Your tanned, shimmery skin may grab some admiring looks, but getting to this point is quite a task. The traditional skin tanning methods involve either laying under the hot sun for hours or inside a tanning bed while being exposed to UV radiation. Since both of these pose significant risks, many people are choosing to receive a spray tan instead.
Spray tanning is an easy-breezy way to achieve a tanned look without having to burn under the sun. You can book yourself a session at the nearest salon or have a professional from a mobile tanning business visit you at home. Or if you want to cut down on the expense, you can invest in the leading spray tan machines of 2024. Since the range is quite vast, we have helpfully included a buyer's guide to help you pick the right one for your needs. Have a look!
Comparing the Highest-Rated Spray Tan Machines of 2024
MaxiMist Spray Tan Machine — Best Overall
Whether you are a trained professional running a mobile spray tanning business or a novice looking to achieve a sunless tanned look, the MaxiMist Lite Spray Tan Machine is the perfect pick for the job. It is one of the best options for a number of reasons. Firstly, it is an HVLP spray gun, meaning it covers more area in a short time. Secondly, its sprayer is very forgiving, so you'll master it in no time.
The machine comes complete with three five-ounce cups, two lids, a 6.5 feet air hose, spare parts kit and spray tan solutions in varying intensities. The easy-to-use design, long hose and different spray patterns have earned it the top spot on our list.
Pros
- Lightweight and beginner-friendly
- Has minimum overspray
- Not tested on animals
Cons
- A bit too loud
Norvell Spray Tan Machine — Ergonomic Design
We agree that spray tan machines can be quite bulky to carry around, but not this one. The Norvell Spray Tan Machine is a compact unit that packs both the gun and the compressor inside. The best part? Everything is encased for maximum protection. Oasis not only looks like a hair dryer, but it is also as easy to use as one.
It comes with two solution reservoirs that are large and clear for easy viewing and cleaning. The stainless steel nozzle offers better control over the mist. The nozzle also comes off for thorough cleaning. Plus, the machine comes with the Norvell Cosmo tanning solution to get you started.
Pros
- Has a backflow prevention valve
- The design is similar to a hairdryer
- Large solution containers for easy cleanup
Cons
- Complains of spraying in one pattern only
Norvell Spray Tan Machine — Best for Professional Use
The Norvell Spray Tan Machine is a popular choice amongst many professional spray tanners. This does not mean you can't use it on yourself, however. This kit comes with three eight-ounce tanning solutions in varying intensities: Dark, Venetian and Cosmo Lite.
We really love it for its sleek design and durable construction. This lightweight system utilizes powerful HVLP technology to produce a precise jet of mist coating skin smoothly and evenly. It also features a carry handle and shoulder strap for enhanced portability. Lastly, the adjustable sprayer pattern ensures more control and less overspray.
Pros
- Includes a 10 feet hose
- The shoulder strap increases portability
- Looks and works professionally
Cons
- Can become clogged
Existing Beauty Spray Tan Machine — Best Standalone Model
Whether you are after a full-body tanning session or are getting a machine for small touch-ups, get your hands on the Existing Beauty Spray Tan Machine. Made using premium-quality components, you can rest easy about its safety. The device is also quite easy to use, making sunless tans convenient and hassle-free.
The system is pretty simple with a spray gun, hose and a bottle to hold the solution. There are no tanning solutions included, but there is a self-tanning program guide included to make its assembly, operation and maintenance a breeze.
Pros
- Constructed with high-quality materials
- Delivers even and streak-free finish
- Easy to set up and use
Cons
- Tanning solution not included
Fascination Spray Tan Machine — Best Spray Tan Kit
If you want to enjoy a professional-grade tanning experience, look into getting the Fascination Spray Tan Machine. It comes as a kit complete with Norvell tanning solutions, two siphon-fed clear solution cups and disposable adhesive spa feet.
The machine boasts an elegant design with a stylish black finish that's made to be seen. We really like the built-in compressor that makes it quite portable. It also features rubber feet for maximum stability and a convenient handle for easy transportation. The machine is easy to operate with a single switch. Thus even if you are a beginner, you won't have any difficulty operating it.
Pros
- Simple one-button control
- Easy to clean design
- Quieter than most spray tan machines
Cons
- The trigger is quite small
Finding Efficient Spray Tan Machines: Buyer's Guide
A single search for a spray tan machine yields hundreds of results. And despite their claims of superior performance, not every machine delivers on their claims. But don't you worry! Here is a buyer's guide to help you find a suitable system:
Types of Spray Tan Machines
Once you start searching, you'll come across various types of spray tan machines. While there are other methods of spray tanning, for our purposes below we have only discussed two types of spray tan machines in detail below:
LVLP (low volume low pressure) spray tan systems
LVLP spray tan gun systems are turbine-driven and operate at lower pressure, but the low pressure means you have to use it more precisely. They give off a fine mist that not only dries quickly but is less messy as well. Plus, you can also adjust the spray pattern according to your needs.
HVLP (high volume low pressure) spray tan systems
These spray tan systems are more popular because they are more efficient, fast and simple to use. The HVLP gun with a pressure rating between 4 and 10 PSI (pound per square inch) tends to produce a finer spray that offers better coverage with little overspray.
Factors To Consider in a Spray Tan Machine
Choosing a spray tan machine is not very easy. Here are some features that you must pay attention to:
Material
Whether you are purchasing the spray tan machine for your personal use or for your mobile sunless tan business, the material used in its construction is an important consideration. Look for a unit that is made using high-quality, durable and sturdy materials so that the machine will last you for a long time.
Accessories
Some spray tan machines come as standalone units, others are supplied as kits complete with various accessories to achieve a flawless tanned look. This includes tanning solutions in various intensities, nose plugs to keep it out of your nose, disposable foot pads and sometimes a tent for a mess-free experience. The more accessories you get, the less you will be hassled while using the machine.
Capacity
A tan machine needs at least two ounces of tanning solution to cover an average body from head to toe. So you should aim for getting a machine that can hold two ounces of solution at a minimum. And if you like to have a deeper tan or are bigger than the average size, consider a machine with four ounces capacity.
Pressure system
As we already mentioned above, spray tan guns are categorized into HVLP or LVLP according to their pressure system. HVLP systems are more popular for at-home usage because they are lightweight, quiet and more efficient. LVLP units, on the other hand, tend to be louder and slower. It comes down to your personal preference so choose accordingly.
Maintenance
The biggest reason many consumers refrain from buying a spray tan machine is the mess they leave behind. But don't you worry. There are many models that provide excellent tan with minimal cleanup. When looking at the different models, make sure to check their overspray. The models with little to no overspray rating are the ones you should look into getting. Additionally, you should also check to make sure that the cups are not leaky. Lastly, having a tent helps contain the tanning solution mist. Hence, if a spray tanning kit includes one, you should seriously consider getting it.
Noise
Spray tan guns employ air compressors as a part of their construction, hence they tend to be pretty loud. For a mobile tanning business, this can be an issue because you'll be spraying people for hours and a high decibel output can have a devastating impact on your hearing. Plus, the loud noise will prevent communication between you and your client. So you should carefully check the decibel rating of the machine you are considering buying.
Many buyers assume that a machine with a smaller compressor will be quieter. But that's not the case, rather it's the complete opposite. Spray tan machines with larger air compressors tend to be quieter because they don't have to work as hard. If your chosen machine is louder than your liking, you can look into getting sound boxes to restore peace and quiet.
Portability
When it comes to portability, spray tan machines differ verily. Some are available as small units for home use or traveling. Some are designed for maximum mobility. While the rest are professional-grade units that are meant to be used in a fixed location.
So if you are getting one for personal usage, choose a lightweight machine that is easy to maneuver. But if it's for your mobile spray tanning business, go for a gun that is easy to pack and carry around. Lastly, if you are installing one in a professional setting, a large system will work the best.
Tips for Using a Spray Tan Machine
Here are some tips to make the most of your spray tan machine:
- If you have not shaved or waxed, do so at least a day before receiving the tan. If your pores are open they'll absorb the solution and appear like dark spots.
- Exfoliate your skin the day before. It helps smoothen your skin so the tanning solution adheres evenly sans unsightly splotches.
- Avoid using deodorant both before and after spray tan application. When applied before tanning, it creates a barrier that prevents the solution from absorbing. And if applied afterward, the chemicals inside it react with the tanning solution creating a greenish shade on your skin.
- Protect your palms by applying a barrier cream and your hair by using a shower cap. Applying a little moisturizer keeps your eyebrows safe.
- Use the machine in a well-ventilated room. Hold it about two to six inches away from your body.
- Start the tanning process from your feet and gradually make your way upwards.
- After application, wait for the solution to dry to avoid rubbing off. Once it has dried, you have to wait for about six to eight hours for the color to develop. Don't bathe before that.
