Brush Up Your Technique: Get Ready for a Busy Spray Tan Season

As the busy season slowly approaches, now is the perfect time to refine your skills and ensure your business is ready to meet the demand. Whether you’re gearing up for weddings, vacations, or the spring break rush, a little preparation can go a long way in setting yourself apart and ensuring your clients leave glowing—literally and figuratively.
1. Perfect & Elevate Your Spray Technique
Even the most seasoned spray tan professionals can benefit from a refresh. Consistency and confidence in your technique are crucial for creating flawless results that keep clients coming back.

- Enhance your Technique: Take time to revisit the basics and refine your spray tan skills. Schedule practice sessions to focus on technique and tent-side etiquette. Review your original training materials to refresh your knowledge of client poses and application methods. Use practice models to ensure you’re delivering smooth, overlapping strokes and achieving even coverage every time. Additionally, reflect on past customer feedback, identifying any areas of concern, and practice techniques to address those specific challenges. This proactive approach will help you deliver flawless results and build confidence in your craft.
- Expand Your Knowledge: Stay ahead of the curve by staying informed about the latest trends and innovations in the sunless tanning industry. With new products, techniques, and equipment constantly emerging, investing in your education will keep you at the top of your game. Here’s how:
- Tap Into Resources: Explore Sjolie’s blog and training materials for expert tips, insights, and step-by-step guides.
- Join Online Communities: Connect with fellow professionals in forums or through social media groups to share advice and gain inspiration.
- Attend Training Sessions: Sjolie offers various training opportunities to suit your needs. Join us in person at our Rocklin, California headquarters, or access our exclusive early access virtual training—available for a limited time! These sessions provide tried-and-true techniques and industry knowledge from seasoned professionals, tailored for technicians of all experience levels.
- Book a Refresher Class: If you’ve completed a Sjolie in-person or virtual class within the last year, take advantage of our exclusive 1:1 refresher experience. These personalized sessions offer dedicated time with a trainer to address specific challenges, refine your skills, and help your business thrive.
Continuing your education is an investment in both your skills and your business, ensuring you provide your clients with the best possible results.
2. Get Your Equipment in Top Shape
Your tools are just as important as your technique, and the busy season is the perfect time to ensure your equipment is operating at peak performance. Here’s how to prepare:

- Deep Clean Your Turbine Filters: Clogged filters can reduce airflow and impact spray quality, so regular cleaning or replacement is essential for consistent performance. To clean your filter, remove it from the turbine and rinse thoroughly with warm water. Avoid using hot water or soaps, as these can damage the filter. Once clean, allow the filter to air dry completely before reinserting it into the turbine casing. Keeping your filters in top condition will help maintain optimal spray tan results and extend the life of your equipment.
- Inspect and Replace Worn Tools: Frayed towels, old mats, grimy fan filters, and other well-used accessories can detract from your professional image. Upgrade your tools to enhance the client experience.
- Clean and Sanitize Tents: Over time, spray tan tents can accumulate residue, which may break down the materials and reduce their lifespan. To keep your tent looking fresh and professional, give it a thorough cleaning. Set it up outdoors and use Gun Cleaning Solution or mild dish soap to gently scrub away any buildup. Be sure to allow the tent to fully air dry before folding and storing it. Regular cleaning helps maintain its appearance and ensures long-lasting durability. Tents older than a year should be carefully inspected and considered as a replacement to maintain the highest standards for your business.
- Deep Clean Your Applicators: As one of your most important tools, your applicator needs regular cleaning—not just after each use but also a deep clean every couple of weeks or monthly. We know this isn’t the most exciting task, and it’s easy to put off, but now is the perfect time to catch up and prevent any issues before they arise. A deep clean involves completely disassembling your applicator and thoroughly cleaning all the small parts and working components. Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with a detailed YouTube video tutorial for a step-by-step walkthrough to make the process as easy as possible!
- Perform Routine Equipment Maintenance: Check hoses, solution cups, guns, and seals for wear and tear. Addressing small issues now can save you from breakdowns during your busiest days.
Taking the time to clean, repair, or replace your tools ensures that your setup is as polished as your technique.
3. Stock Up and Plan Ahead
As the busy season approaches, the demand for your services will increase, so it’s essential to ensure your inventory is ready to meet that demand. Don’t wait until the last minute to order key products like tanning solutions, prep sprays, and aftercare items. Proactively checking your supplies now can help you avoid delays or shortages that could impact your ability to serve clients effectively.

- Review Your Inventory: Take stock of your current supplies and check expiration dates to ensure you’re not caught off guard with expired products. Make a list of what’s low and order early to avoid any disruptions.
- Plan for Bulk Orders: If you’re expecting a high volume of appointments, it’s a smart idea to place bulk orders for your most popular products. Not only will this ensure you’re prepared, but it can also save you money by taking advantage of discounts on larger quantities. To help keep track of product freshness, we recommend writing the purchase date on each bottle as soon as it arrives. This will help you monitor expiration dates and avoid using expired products. Remember, spray tan solutions have an 8-month shelf life from the purchase date, which reduces to around 6 months once opened. Products that don’t contain DHA tend to have a longer shelf life, closer to one year.
- Backup Equipment: Don’t forget to check your equipment and accessories. If you’re in need of new spray tan guns, tents, or applicators, now is the time to replace worn-out items. Having backups available means you won’t miss a beat when equipment needs maintenance or repair.
Bonus Tip: Review Your Marketing Strategy
Busy season isn’t just about being stocked up; it’s also about attracting new clients. Take time to review your marketing efforts and consider new strategies to stand out during peak times:

- Create Seasonal Promotions: Offer special packages for events like weddings, vacations, or holidays. Bundling services or offering discounts on multiple sessions can drive sales and encourage repeat business.
- Collaborate with Local Businesses: Partner with local gyms, spas, or boutiques to cross-promote your services. Consider offering mutual promotions or discounts to attract each other’s clientele.
- Highlight Client Testimonials: Share glowing reviews from satisfied clients across social media or your website. Positive word-of-mouth, especially in the busy season, can attract more customers looking for proven results.
By preparing your inventory and refining your marketing strategy now, you’ll ensure that your business is ready to meet the surge of demand and keep clients satisfied during peak season.
Prepare Today, Succeed Tomorrow
With refined skills, updated knowledge, and well-maintained equipment, you’ll be ready to shine during the busiest times of the year. Remember, preparation is the key to delivering exceptional client experiences and building lasting loyalty.
Need help getting ready? Contact us for resources, training opportunities, and product support. Let’s make this busy season your best yet!