Because glowing skin never goes out of season.
While some beauty services slow down in the colder months, smart spray tan professionals know winter is the perfect time to shine. Whether you’re prepping clients for tropical getaways, winter weddings, or just helping them beat the seasonal blues, a flawless tan can make all the difference. But winter weather brings a unique set of challenges, from dry skin to freezing temps, that require a thoughtful approach to technique, equipment, and client care.
Here’s how to adjust your spray tan game for cooler temps and keep clients glowing (and coming back) all season long.
1. Tackle the #1 Winter Tan Saboteur: Dry Skin
Low humidity, indoor heating, and harsh winds can leave skin rough, flaky, and dehydrated. In winter, prepping the skin becomes even more essential for a smooth, even application.
Pro Tips:
- Encourage clients to exfoliate gently 24–48 hours before their session using an oil free product.
- Recommend daily hydration leading up to the appointment, but no lotion the day of the tan.
- Offer or retail exfoliating mitts and prep sprays to boost results (and your bottom line).
Bonus Tip: Consider adding a mini “Winter Skin Rescue” kit to your services with exfoliator, prep spray, and tan extender. Little extras make a big impact.
2. Fine Tune Your Technique with Precision Equipment
Winter skin tends to be more sensitive and can absorb solutions unevenly if too much product is applied. This is where precision matters, and where a high quality HVLP system like APOLLO makes a big difference.
Technique Tips:
- Use the adjustable spray settings on your APOLLO unit to control airflow and reduce overspray.
- Apollo systems use a custom size nozzle that allows for finer droplet size and the perfect mist!
- Apply slightly lighter layers and build gradually to avoid over saturation.
- Choose a shade that complements winter skin tones for a natural, radiant result.
Why It Matters: APOLLO’s HVLP systems are known for delivering ultra fine mists and consistent airflow, which means smoother, streak free tans, even on winter skin.
3. Create a Cozy (and Comfortable) Spray Tan Setup
Let’s be real, no one wants to strip down in a freezing room. Client comfort is everything, especially in colder months. The more comfortable and pampered they feel, the more likely they are to rebook and rave about your service.
Winter Comfort Tips:
- Warm your space with space heaters (safely positioned away from equipment).
- Offer plush robes, slippers, or even heated blankets for a spa like feel.
- If you’re mobile, prewarm your solution bottles in a heating pad or warm towel wrap.
- Make sure you warm up the spray system as the HVLP turbine systems create warm, dry air. By warming up the system it will deliver warm air to be more comfortable for clients.
Vibe Check: Soft music, warm lighting, and a calming scent can transform a basic tan into a luxe winter self care ritual.
4. Give a Heads Up on Drying Time
Colder air and lower humidity can affect how quickly the tanning solution dries, and how long it takes to fully develop. Let your clients know they may need a bit more time before dressing and to wear the right post tan outfit.
Winter Drying Tips:
- Recommend loose, dark layers that are easy to slip on, no tight sleeves, no leggings!
- Offer a cozy, oversized hoodie or blanket for clients to wear home after their tan.
- Remind them to avoid rain, snow, or sweat for at least 8 hours post tan.
Use this as a chance to remind clients about post care.They’ll appreciate the guidance, and it sets you apart as a true pro.
5. Extend the Glow with Moisture Rich Aftercare
Winter skin sheds faster, which can shorten the life of a tan. Encourage your clients to moisturize daily and use products that enhance and extend their glow.
Aftercare Essentials:
- Recommend a tan safe lotion that’s free of oils and alcohol.
- Upsell a gradual tanner or DHA infused moisturizer to keep color fresh between sessions.
- Educate clients on avoiding hot baths, exfoliating too soon, and skipping hydration.
Pro Tip: Build client loyalty by offering a discounted winter tan bundle that includes a follow up session and aftercare products. Also offer a personalized spray tanning checklist, here is one from Apollo to help you get started.
Final Thoughts: Winter Proofing Your Spray Tan Game
With a few smart seasonal adjustments, winter can be one of the most rewarding times to grow your sunless tanning business. Your clients still want to feel radiant, even when it’s 30 degrees and snowing, and with the right technique and equipment, you can be the pro who delivers that year round glow. Here are some of our favorite spray tanning distributers to help you learn more!
Need gear that performs no matter the season? APOLLO Sunless HVLP systems are built to handle it all, so you can focus on flawless tans, not equipment hassles.
