How Much Does a Spray Tan Cost? Your Complete Pricing Guide

Average Spray Tan Prices

Most salons fall between $25 and $75 per session. Automated booth tans are usually on the lower side. Custom airbrush tans cost more because a technician mixes and applies color for your skin and can blend around wrists, ankles, and hairlines. Mobile spray tanning brings the service to you and often adds a convenience premium. Quick ranges per session: Booth $25 to $45+, Custom Airbrush $45 to $85+, Mobile $65 to $125+.

Factors That Affect The Price

Location

Big city studios pay more in rent and labor which often shows up in menu pricing. Suburbs and smaller towns tend to be lower.

Type Of Service

Automated booths are faster and cheaper. Custom airbrush gives tailored color, contouring, and blending which adds to the cost. Rapid rinse formulas can carry a small upcharge because of specialty blends.

Technician Experience

Senior artists charge more for a reason. You are paying for color matching, even coverage, and a smoother fade which can save you time and re do costs.

Add Ons

Shimmer drops, DHA boosters, scents, barrier creams, and post tan moisturizers are optional add ons. Each one can add a few dollars to the final ticket.

Booth Vs. Airbrush

Booth: budget friendly, fast, and consistent for a single shade across the body. Great for a quick glow when you do not need detail work.

Airbrush: higher cost, but custom mixed color, blending at wrists and ankles, and optional contour emphasis. Popular for photos, trips, and times when you want flawless edges. Wedding and event packages often include trials and timing plans which increase price but help guarantee a perfect day of result.

How To Save Money On Spray Tans

Look for new client specials, student rates, and seasonal promos. Buy a bundle or a monthly plan if you tan regularly. Use DIY touch ups between appointments to stretch the life of your tan. A gradual or express self tanner from Makai can control your shade for less over time and lets you top up color in minutes without booking a visit.

Comparing Spray Tans Vs At Home Self Tanners

A single spray tan typically ranges from $25 to $75. A quality self tanner bottle often costs $20 to $40 and gives multiple full body applications. With at home tanning you control shade and frequency, skip appointments, and do not need to tip a technician. Many people use a salon tan for big events and maintain at home between dates.

Maintenance Costs To Consider

Most spray tans are refreshed every 7 to 10 days. Plan for gentle body washes, daily moisturizers, and tan extenders if you want to push your glow a little longer. Good habits like hydrating, pat drying after showers, and avoiding long soaks help your tan last.

Is A Spray Tan Worth The Price

Professional services shine for events, photos, and moments when you want expert blending and a custom shade. At home products make sense for weekly glow maintenance, flexible timing, and budget control. Test both before a big event so you know what you love.

Final Thoughts

Expect $25 to $45 for booths, $45 to $85 for custom airbrush, and a premium for mobile visits. Prices move with location, add ons, and artist experience. Use this guide to match your budget to your ideal finish and consider a good self tanner for the most flexible and cost friendly routine.