How to Choose The Perfect Starter Kit (Updated 2026)
HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST SPRAY TAN STARTER KIT
Starting or upgrading a sunless tanning business is an exciting venture, and choosing the right starter kit is a critical first step. Sjolie offers a range of starter kits that provide a cost-effective way to acquire everything you need to get your business up and running — from equipment to solutions to aftercare products.
THREE KEY FACTORS TO CONSIDER
DAILY TAN VOLUME
Are you just starting with a few tans per day, or are you an experienced technician serving a high volume of clients? Your volume impacts the machine, applicator, and kit level you’ll need.
SERVICE LOCATION
Will you operate as a mobile technician, work in a salon or spa, or do both? Mobile artists need portability, while studio-based artists can prioritize power and workflow efficiency.
EQUIPMENT PREFERENCE
Do you prefer a simple, pre-set system or more control with adjustable settings? Apollo kits offer ready-to-use simplicity, while Fuji kits offer customizable spray patterns.
SJOLIE STARTER KIT PACKAGES AT A GLANCE
| Package | Best For | Equipment Options |
|---|---|---|
| Essentials | Beginners, personal use, low volume (0–3 tans/day), mobile technicians | Apollo MiniMist or Fuji soloTAN — portable, easy to learn |
| Premier | Moderate volume (3–8 tans/day), mobile + studio, existing beauty professionals | Apollo MiniMist Deluxe or Fuji studioTAN — more power and efficiency |
| Ultimate | High volume (8+ tans/day), established studios, peak-season demand | Apollo MightyMist or Fuji salonTAN — maximum power and speed |
The most common “kit regret” happens when artists buy for a future business model that hasn’t arrived yet. Choose what fits your schedule now — you can always upgrade when the demand proves it.
WHAT THE BEST SPRAY TAN KITS INCLUDE
| Component | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Reliable Turbine + Applicator | Your day-to-day workhorse. Choose based on your volume and how much control you want over spray patterns. |
| Spray Environment (Tent) | Reduces overspray and keeps your setup professional. Essential for both mobile and studio technicians. |
| Prep Essentials | pH balancing and barrier protection reduce patchiness and over-development on dry areas like elbows, knees, and feet. |
| Cleaning Supplies | A clean gun is a consistent gun. Kits that make cleaning simple ensure you’ll actually do it after every session. |
| Aftercare Products | Clients get better results when they moisturize and care for their tan properly. Retail aftercare also boosts your revenue. |
| Training & Education | A repeatable process (prep, spray, dry, cleanup, aftercare) is what separates good technicians from great ones. |
CHOOSING THE RIGHT SOLUTION FOR YOUR CLIENTS
A spray tan kit is only as good as the results you deliver. Start with a small range that covers your typical clients — a lighter option for subtle glows, a medium “everyday” option for most clients, and a deeper option for bold, event-ready results. You can always expand your menu once you see what clients request most.
Sjolie’s Original line features a green base with caramel and walnut husk colorants — ideal for neutralizing pink and red undertones with a golden-brown finish. The Luxe line uses a violet-bronzer complex for warm and olive skin tones, delivering a deep, rich bronze. Both lines are available in light through dark shades, plus rapid-rinse options for clients on tight schedules.
SPRAY TAN STARTER KIT FAQS
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Do I need a professional-grade kit? | If you’re consistently booked or doing back-to-back appointments, a professional-grade setup pays for itself quickly. If you’re still building, a lighter kit can be the perfect start. |
| Does location matter when choosing a kit? | Yes — mobile artists should prioritize portability and quick setup. Salon artists should focus on power, workflow, and a consistent room setup. |
| Equipment or solution — which matters more? | Both. Your machine affects application consistency and workflow. Your solution affects how the tan develops, looks, and wears. Great results come from pairing the right equipment with solid prep and aftercare. |
| Which package should I start with? | Choose based on your real schedule right now. Essentials fits lower volume and mobility. Premier fits steady growth. Ultimate fits high volume and busy studios. |
INVEST IN THE RIGHT KIT AND START DELIVERING BEAUTIFUL RESULTS
Whether you’re a beginner, an intermediate technician, or an experienced pro, Sjolie has a starter kit designed for your business. Choose the kit that matches your volume, location, and equipment style — then lean into a consistent prep, spray, and aftercare process. Once you make the investment, you’ll be well on your way to providing beautiful, natural-looking tans to every client who walks through your door.
