Sunless 101 is Aviva Labs’ signature spray tan certification course, designed to give you the confidence, knowledge, and hands-on experience to launch or grow your spray tanning business. It’s a complete introduction to both the art and science of sunless tanning, covering everything from application technique to business strategy.

This course is perfect for:

Beginners who are new to spray tanning or the beauty industry.

Salon owners or estheticians looking to expand their service offerings.

Experienced spray tan artists who want to refine their technique, understand product chemistry, and boost client satisfaction.

Entrepreneurs interested in starting a mobile tanning business.

Age & gender: Individuals aged 16 and up — we welcome all genders. The course content is applicable to anyone who wants to become a professional spray tan artist or add this service to their business.
Participants under 18 must have parental or guardian consent to enroll.

Aviva Labs offers both online and in-person options:

• Online: Learn at your own pace, from anywhere in the world.

• In-person: Live demonstrations, hands-on training, and direct feedback from Aviva-certified educators.

The Sunless 101 Course covers a comprehensive range of topics designed to make you a confident, knowledgeable spray tan artist:

The Science of Sunless Tanning

• Understanding DHA (Dihydroxyacetone) — the active ingredient in sunless tanning.
• How DHA interacts with the skin to create a natural-looking tan.
• Solution formula ingredients: bronzers, enhancers, corrective pigments, and how they work.

Skin Types & Color Theory

• Identifying skin types and undertones.
• Choosing the right Aviva Labs solution for each client based on their skin tone, skin condition, and desired result.
• Color theory basics: how undertones (warm/cool/neutral) affect spray tan color outcome.

Aviva Labs Product & Solution Knowledge

• Deep dive into Aviva’s full range of solutions and skincare.
• Understanding when and how to use each product for optimal results.

Tan Extending & Skincare Knowledge

• Pre-tan prep: exfoliation, avoiding oils/lotion, prepping skin.
• Post-tan care: moisturizers, tan extenders, avoiding ingredients that strip color.
• Educating your clients on how to care for their tan to get longer wear and better results.

Technique & Application

• Spray tan dos and don’ts.
• Correct spray gun distance, speed, pattern, body positioning.
• Techniques for different body shapes.
• Common mistakes and how to avoid them (patchy areas, overspray, streaks).
• Hands-on practice in in-person class: you’ll apply tans (and receive one) to build muscle memory.

Equipment & Setup

• Introduction to spray tan machines, guns, containment options such as tents, etc.
• How to set up your station (mobile vs salon).
• Cleaning, maintenance, hygiene best-practices.
• Safety measures: ventilation, overspray control, FDA requirements

Business Building & Marketing

• How to launch and grow your spray tanning business.
• Pricing strategies, packaging, upsells, memberships.
• Marketing tips: social media, local partnerships, event/mobile work (weddings, fitness events).
• Client retention: booking systems, referrals, loyalty programs.

Client Care & Service

• Consultation process: what to ask (skin history, allergies, expectations).
• Educating clients on what to expect (color development, how long to wait before showering, exfoliating post-color).
• Managing expectations, addressing issues (uneven tan, fading too fast).
• Building strong client relationships for repeat business.

Bring an outfit that is comfortable for being sprayed in. Something like:

• A bathing suit or sports bra and shorts 
• Flip flops or easy sandals 
• For the learning/lecture portion of the day: comfy clothes that you can move in and sit comfortably.

We want you comfortable during hands-on practice, so dressing appropriately is helpful.

• Your spray-ready outfit (see above).
• Flip flops or sandals.
• Comfortable clothes for the non-spray portions of the day.
• A water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the class.
• A light snack or lunch, since the class breaks for lunch time.
• We’ll supply spray-tan equipment/product for in-class use, so you don’t need to bring your own machine.. just come ready to learn and participate.

Bringing a model:
A model is not required for Sunless 101. However, if you’d like to bring someone to spray during the hands-on portion of the class, that’s totally fine! We simply ask that you contact us in advance to confirm so we can plan accordingly. Models should only attend the hands-on portion of the class and not the lecture or business segments.

The class runs from 9 AM to 4:30 PM (please arrive 15 minutes early for check-in).
This full-day format gives us time for the lecture, product/solution science, technique demonstrations, hands-on practice, business strategy and Q&A.

In most U.S. states, no special cosmetology or esthetics license is required specifically for spray tanning.

In Oregon: Individuals who apply spray tans must hold a valid Oregon esthetician license.

In Ohio: Tanning businesses must obtain a Tanning Facility Permit from the state.

Even where a state does not require a specific license, you’ll still want to check local rules (city/county), ensure you have proper business registration, liability insurance, and follow best practices for hygiene and safety.

Click here to sign up and learn more about our class or contact a Sunless Specialist to help you choose the right class for your goals.