Professional Spray Tanning Tips
Your Guide to Spray Tan Marketing: Attracting, Converting, and Retaining Loyal Clients
Table of Contents Stage 1: Attraction Stage 2: Conversion Stage 3: The Experience Stage 4: Retention Frequently Asked Questions From Great Artist to Smart Marketer Running a spray tan business takes more than skill with a spray gun. You can deliver flawless results, but without strong spray tan marketing, your books will stay empty. Thankfully, understanding this unique type of marketing is easy with the help of Norvell experts. Below, we've created the ultimate Client Lifecycle Marketing Plan: a proven framework to attract new clients, convert them into appointments, and retain them for lasting loyalty. With Norvell as your partner, you gain strategies that grow your business and position you as the go-to artist in your market. Stage 1: Attraction – Getting Your First Wave of Clients The first challenge in spray tan marketing is getting noticed. Attraction is about building visibility, sparking curiosity, and positioning your business where potential clients are already looking. With the right strategies in place, you can create awareness that leads to piqued interests and a stronger presence in your local market. Here's how you can do that most effectively. Building Your Digital Storefront: Website & Social Media Essentials Your website and social media profiles act as your portfolio, shaping first impressions before a client ever books. A polished website with service details, pricing, and an easy booking link builds trust instantly. Since spray tanning is an intimate service, add a 'Meet the Artist' section to introduce yourself and your passion. Showcase your knowledge with educational content, like video responding to FAQs to position yourself as an expert to would be clients. When social media profiles are full of result photos, transformations, testimonials, and even behind-the-scenes content you showcase who you are as a spray tan artist. Local SEO Basics: Getting Found on Google Maps Local search drives many new bookings, and Google Maps is where clients start. By creating a complete Google Business Profile with photos, hours, and reviews, you will improve your company's visibility tenfold. Adding location-based keywords to your site will also increase the chances of discovering and boosting your spray tan advertising efforts. Initial Buzz: Leveraging Friends, Family, and Local Partnerships Your first wave of marketing often comes from the people already in your circle, and that's perfectly fine! It can be a great idea to offer discounted or modeled sessions to friends and family, as this can help you build a starter profile. Partnering with local businesses like salons, gyms, or bridal shops also introduces you to audiences who already value beauty services. These grassroots tactics create authentic connections that support long-term spray tan marketing success. Stage 2: Conversion – Turning Interest into Appointments Attraction builds awareness, but conversion turns that attention into paying clients. This stage of spray tan marketing focuses on creating compelling reasons to book and removing barriers that may slow the process. Here's how we suggest turning that initial spark of interest into a full-on booked appointment. Creating Your Irresistible Offer: New Client Specials & Packages A strong introductory offer gives potential clients a reason to try your services now instead of waiting. New client specials, bundle deals, or seasonal promotions add urgency while showcasing the value of your work. These offers can also set the stage for repeat visits when paired with future packaging pricing. Here's a pro tip from our educators: Don't just bundle tans; bundle the experience. Try offering a package of three spray tans that includes a free trial-size aftercare product, like a tan extender. This encourages client loyalty, proves the amazing results of your retail line, and teaches them how to properly maintain their tan. Effective spray tan advertising highlights these deals clearly and positions them as limited opportunities worth taking. Instead of running a generic sale, create timely offers around local events where people want to look their best. Think Homecoming & Prom Glow Packages, Holiday Party Prep, or a special for New Year's Eve. Tying your spray tan advertising to specific moments gives clients a compelling reason to book now. Show, Don't Tell: Building a Stunning Portfolio on Instagram Clients want proof that your spray tans look natural, consistent, and professional. A well-curated Instagram profile with before-and-after photos builds that credibility instantly. Highlighting real clients rather than stock images creates trust and makes your artistry relatable. Strong visual storytelling turns your feed into a conversion tool that supports spray tan advertising ideas. Making It Easy to Book: Online Scheduling & Clear CTAs Even the best offer falls flat if booking feels complicated. Online scheduling systems should allow clients to choose services and times without back-and-forth messages. Adding visible "Book Now" buttons and simple instructions keeps the process direct and frustration-free. Stage 3: The Experience – Creating a Client for Life A flawless spray tan is only part of what keeps clients returning. The overall experience is what shapes how they remember your business and whether or not they recommend you to others. This stage of spray tan marketing focuses on personalization, education, and memorable details that turn a first appointment into lasting customer loyalty. The Perfect First Appointment: Consultation & Customization Every client arrives with different goals and skin tones, which makes consultations essential. Asking the right questions about undertones, event timing, and personal preferences shows professionalism and builds confidence. Additionally, customizing the spray tan solution with the right shade and formula prevents the "orange" look that clients have nightmares about. By treating each appointment as unique, you position yourself as the expert they can rely on for consistent results. Educating on Aftercare (and a Chance to Upsell Retail Products) Client education is one of the most effective spray tan marketing techniques because it directly impacts satisfaction and retention. Explaining proper aftercare – such as when to shower, which lotions to use, and what to avoid – helps clients maintain their glow longer. Offering retail products like Norvell self-tanning mousses or tan-extending lotions gives your clients a feeling of convenience, all while boosting revenue. The Small Touches That Create a "Wow" Experience Clients will always remember the details that make them feel valued. Simple touches such as providing disposable wipes, adding a refreshing scent in the room, or offering unique drinks and snacks before and after tanning can truly elevate your service. These thoughtful extras strengthen loyalty and encourage positive reviews that double as spray tan advertising. After all, a client who feels truly cared for will not only return, but also refer others who want the same premium experience. Stage 4: Retention – Keeping Your Calendar Full While garnering new clientele is critical, retention truly defines long-term growth and success. This stage of spray tan marketing is all about building lasting relationships that keep clients returning and spreading the word. With consistent communication, loyalty rewards, and powerful social testimonials, you can transform casual visits into steady business. Let's examine how. Stay Top-of-Mind: Simple Email & SMS Marketing Regular communication ensures your clients remember you when they need their next tan. Short text reminders, seasonal specials, and aftercare tips sent by email or text add value without overwhelming. Tools like automated scheduling make it easy to reach your entire client base with consistent messages. By staying visible in their inbox or phone, you keep your brand top-of-mind and encourage repeat bookings. Building Loyalty: Referral Programs & VIP Tiers Structured loyalty programs encourage clients to keep coming back while sharing your services with friends. Think of it like our own commitment to you. For example, in the Norvell Tanning Rewards Program, we reward professional artists with points based on their spending, which can be redeemed for exclusive perks. You can create a similar system for your clients, turning their loyalty into a growth engine for your business. Even something as simple as a stamp card offering your client a free or discounted session after a certain number of visits can increase client commitment. Overall, these spray tan advertising strategies deepen relationships and turn satisfied clients into long-term supporters. The Power of Reviews: How to Ask for and Leverage Testimonials Finally, having positive reviews online builds trust and influences new clients. The best time to request a review is right after a client expresses satisfaction, while the experience feels fresh. You can offer discounts for those who leave reviews, too. Offering a direct link to your Google or Yelp profile makes the process fast and simple. Then, once collected, these testimonials can double as marketing material for your website or socials. Your Next Steps With Norvell Your growth as a spray tan professional does not stop here. Norvell offers the tools, training, and professional equipment to help you put this spray tan marketing plan into action and elevate your business exponentially. Explore our How to Start a Spray Tan Business blog for step-by-step guidance, or advance your skills through Norvell University training classes. No matter what resources you need to support your spray tan company, with Norvell as your partner, you'll get what you require for lasting success. Spray Tan Marketing FAQs Learn more about how to get more spray tan clients through our frequently asked questions below. How much should I budget for spray tan advertising each month? Your budget depends on business size and goals, but many artists start with $100-$300 per month for local ads. This can cover Facebook and Instagram promotions targeting clients in your area. Remember: even small budgets can generate results if your messaging highlights irresistible offers and clear booking links. What are the best spray tan advertising ideas for the bridal season? Bridal season is one of the busiest times for growing your client base. Advertising ideas may include partnering with bridal boutiques, offering group packages for wedding parties, and running limited-time "bridal glow" specials. How do I get more spray tan clients during slow months? Slow months are an opportunity to run tanning salon specials that attract new traffic. Off-season offers like loyalty discounts, flash sales, or bundled retail products can help fill your calendar. Pairing these promotions with consistent email and SMS marketing keeps your business top-of-mind year-round. What role do photos and branding play in spray tan marketing? Strong visuals build trust and set you apart from competitors. Branded photoshoots, consistent color palettes, and client before-and-afters create a recognizable style that makes your business memorable. How soon should I ask new clients for referrals? Referrals work best once a client has returned at least once and trusts your service. At that point, offering small rewards for sending friends your way can spark steady growth. Combining referral perks with VIP programs makes getting more spray tan clients easier through word-of-mouth. Related Posts How to Choose a Spray Tan Machine: The Ultimate Buying Guide for Professionals Learn More How to Start a Thriving Spray Tan Business in 90 Days Learn More Professional Spray Tan Pre & Post Care Essentials Learn More
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How to Choose a Spray Tan Machine: The Ultimate Buying Guide for Professionals
Getting the right spray tan machine is critical for any professional who wants consistent results and happy clients. But, with multiple types of spray tan machines available, it can be difficult to know which model fits your business goals and aligns with your routines. Thankfully, Norvell Tanning and our expertise are here to help. Below, we’ll walk you through how to choose a spray tan machine based on technology, key features, and real use cases so you can find the best choice for your workflow. Let’s get started.
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How to Start a Thriving Spray Tan Business in 90 Days
Researching how to start a spray tan business can feel overwhelming, especially when every guide has something different to say. That’s why Norvell Tanning is breaking it down for you, day by day, for the first 90 days of business. From getting certified to landing your first loyal clients, our guide will walk you through every step of starting a thriving spray tan business so you can move forward with confidence.
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Professional Spray Tan Pre & Post Care Essentials
Professional Spray Tan Pre & Post Care Essentials Proper skin pre and post-tan care are essential for achieving a flawless, long-lasting spray tan. For best results, we recommend the following: Pre-Tan: Begin your session with either the Norvell® EXMITT™ or XLATAN™ pH Balancing Spray immediately prior to tanning to prime the skin for optimal color development. Post-Tan: Avoid Showering for 24 HoursAfter your spray tan, do not shower, shave, or shampoo for approximately 24 hours. This allows the color to develop and set for a deeper, longer-lasting glow. Use Gentle, Hydrating ProductsWhen you do shower, use a gentle, sulfate-free body wash to preserve your tan. Follow with a rich moisturizer daily to keep your skin hydrated and your color looking fresh.We Recommend: Norvell Glow System Shower Cleanser and Body Butter. Extend and Enhance Your Tan Between SessionsMaintain your glow with a DHA-infused tan extender or self-tanner. These products help refresh color and prolong the life of your spray tan.Try: Norvell Glow System Prolong, Post-Tan Face Lotion, or any Norvell Self-Tanner for radiant touch-ups.
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DHA: The Science Behind Sunless Tanning
Bold Color. From the Experts. DHA: The science behind the beauty of sunless tanning Dihydroxyacetone is known more commonly as DHA; at Norvell, we ensure the highest quality of naturally derived DHA for flawless, natural-looking results. Norvell and our parent company, Sunless Inc. are the #1 users of DHA in the world! We source only the finest DHA from Europe and test each batch to ensure quality and freshness for peak product performance and the most natural-looking tan. The Chemistry of Sunless The main active ingredient in self tanners is dihydroxyacetone (C3H6O3 aka DHA), which is nothing more than a simple sugar (a triose) often derived from plant sources such as sugar beets, and sugar cane. This ingredient works by a chemical reaction with dead skin cells to create the appearance of a naturally tanned skin. Sunless Tanning's Active Ingredient Start seeing color development in 4-6 Hours. DHA works in the skin up to 24 hours. Spray tan longevity is 5-7 days. How it Works DHA reacts solely with the amino acids in the stratum corneum, which is the outer most layer of the skin. This is similar to the Maillard reaction; which produces cyclic and linear polymers called melanoidins, which gives skin a natural tan appearance. Melanoidins have a brown color that is similar to melanin that is naturally produced by UV rays. The resulting color will fade within five to seven days due to natural skin exfoliation. DHA darkens between 4 to 24 hours after application, with results that can last 5 to 7 days. Skin pH levels directly effect an individual's self-tanning results. Perfect pH range = 4.8 - 6.0 Darker complexions lend a false sense of security, DHA tans do NOT offer any SPF or UV protection. History of DHA DHA was first used as an active ingredient during research on the treatment of diabetes, as some people tolerate DHA better than glucose. In 1957, the tanning properties of Dihydroxyacetone were discovered in a children's hospital and three years later the first scientific papers on DHA were published. In the late 1960s, a major sun care brand introduced the first consumer self-tanning lotion. The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) added DHA permanently to their list of approved cosmetic ingredients in the 1970s. By the 1980s, refined sunless tanning formulations appeared on the market and a refined manufacturing process produced a better color fade. Today, DHA's physiochemical properties, tanning mechanics and skin tolerance continue to be explored resulting in improved methods of application, and a uniform natural-looking tan without the use of UV rays. The FDA and DHA Listed in the regulations as a color additive for imparting color to the human body, DHA's use in cosmetics is restricted to external application (21 CFR 73.2150). For additional information concerning the FDA's position on DHA in sunless tanners visit www.fda.gov and search "sunless tanners". Norvell and the FDA recommend you utilize the following guidelines when spraying DHA: use of protective undergarments, nose filters, lip balm, protective eye shields, ear plugs, and to post signs informing your clients of these recommendations. Although not required by the FDA, Norvell proactively recommends the use of gloves and filtering masks for all technicians during spray sessions, as with all exposure to airborne particulates (mist).
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Norvell Natural Color Complex™
ANTI-AGING | TIGHTENS & FIRMS | SMOOTHS & HYDRATES Our proprietary infusion of skin-loving ingredients for a radiant complexion – because healthy skin tans best! Only the finest quality of naturally derived ingredients, like potent antioxidants and rich moisturizers, are purposefully selected and paired with our innovative technology to achieve excellence in both skincare and color. Vitamin E and Tomato fruit extract help reduce wrinkles and prevent signs of aging. Vitamin C stimulates collagen to help improve skin elasticity and firmness. Aloe Vera Barbandensis Leaf Juice is a moisturizing anti-oxidant that soothes and balances the skin to be more radiant. Shop our Natural Color Complex™ popular products: Professional Spray Tan Solutions: Venetian™, Venetian Rapid, Venetian Plus, Tuscan Plus, Dark, Dark Rapid, Double Dark, Cosmo™, Clear Plus, Competition, and DHA Free Training Solution. Clear Retail Products: Clear Self-Tanning Drops, Clear Water Mousse, Dark Retail Products: Dark Mist, Dark Mousse Glow System: Exfoliator Self-Tanning Prep, pH Balance Enhancing Primer, pH Balance Shower Cleanser, Post Tan Face Lotion, Prolong Color Extending Lotion Venetian™ Retail Products: Self-Tanning Mist, Mousse, Face Mist, Face Mousse, Rapid Lotion, Gradual Lotion, and the Venetian Maintenance System.
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Spray Tan System and Spray Gun Maintenance
Maintenance of your Handheld Equipment ATTENTION! This is the key and most important aspect of keeping your business runningsmoothly: proper gun cleaning and maintenance.
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Overspray Equipment Maintenance
Overspray Booth and Booth Fan Maintenance Cleaning and maintenance of your overspray booth should be a part of your regular maintenance schedule.
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Equipment Maintenance & Product Care
Proper gun cleaning and maintenance is the most important aspect of keeping your business running smoothly.
Cleaning and maintenance of your overspray booth should be a part of your regular maintenance schedule.
Proper skin pre and post-tan care are essential for achieving a flawless, long-lasting spray tan.
