3. Foundational knowledge

Now that you have a solid grasp of the basics, we can now begin to unpack all of the essential theory components you will need as a spray tanning technician. Some of the information in this module may be a refresher for you, and other sections could be a totally new learning experience! Before we can begin practising and refining our spray tan application skills, we must understand why we do things a certain way. Gorgeous bronzed applications do not happen by chance – there is quite a technical formulation that sits behind achieving the perfect look for our clients.

As a skilled Spray tanning technician, you will need to have a thorough knowledge of:

• The anatomy of the skin, including skin layers and shedding cycles
• How sunless tanning works
• How natural sun tanning works
• Tanning solution types, including key ingredients
• Cosmetic bronzers and dyes used in solutions
• Colour theory and the impact on selecting base colour products for clients
• Skin types and tones
• Contraindications and when to refuse service
• How to identify contra-actions and ways to reduce them
• Patch testing  
• Pre-tanning preparation requirements
• Spray tan application techniques
• After care advice
• Event tanning requirements

As you can see from the broad range of knowledge areas above, our job is not as simple as picking up a spray gun and applying some tanning solution! In this module, you will learn all of the theoretical concepts and principles that underpin what we do day in and day out as spray tanning technicians. As you work through each lesson in this module, be sure to take plenty of notes so you can refer back to them later.