Spray tanning has grown from a simple salon treatment into one of Australia’s most exciting and lucrative beauty side hustles. With more Australians embracing sun safety, prioritising self-care, and seeking instant beauty results, the demand for spray tans has never been higher. For many, what begins as a part-time hobby quickly becomes a thriving business with flexible hours, low start-up costs and the potential for impressive earnings.
If you’ve been searching for a way to earn extra income, build a beauty brand, or start something you can do around a busy lifestyle, completing a spray tan course is one of the most effective ways to begin. This guide explores why spray tanning has become such a dominant trend and how you can turn it into your own profitable side hustle today.
Why Spray Tanning Is Booming in Australia
Australians want safer tanning options
Australia has some of the highest UV levels in the world, and with rising awareness about skin cancer, more people are ditching sunbathing and tanning beds. According to the Victorian Department of Health, cosmetic tanning via spray application is a safer, UV-free alternative and widely recommended for those wanting a bronzed look without the associated health risks:
https://www.health.vic.gov.au/publications/cosmetic-application-including-eyelash-tinting-and-spray-tanning-procedure-specific
This shift toward sun-safe beauty has been a major driving force behind the popularity of spray tanning, especially among younger Australians.
Social media’s influence
Instagram, TikTok and beauty influencers have transformed the tanning industry overnight. People want that “effortless glow,” particularly for events like:
- Formals
- Birthdays
- Graduations
- Photoshoots
- Nights out
- Weddings
And spray tanning provides instant results that look natural on camera and in real life.
It’s affordable and accessible
Unlike other cosmetic treatments that require expensive machines or extensive certifications, spray tanning is one of the most accessible beauty services you can learn and offer. With a small investment and proper training, you can start earning almost immediately.
Why Spray Tanning Is the Perfect Side Hustle
Low start-up costs
You don’t need a salon, specialised furniture, or high-end machines costing thousands. A spray tan kit, tent, extraction system and solutions are affordable and many training providers bundle everything together to make starting even easier.
High client demand year-round
Spray tanning isn’t seasonal. Australians want glowing skin for:
- Summer holidays
- Footy season
- Races
- Hen’s parties
- Engagements
- Weekend events
- Fitness competitions
- Corporate events
Once clients find someone reliable, they tend to return every 1–2 weeks.
Work from home, mobile or in a salon
Spray tanning is incredibly flexible. You can set up:
- A home studio
- A mobile tanning business visiting clients
- A pop-up service at events
- A shared salon space
This makes it ideal whether you want a part-time income or plan to scale into something bigger.
It complements other services
Many technicians expand into:
- Lash lifts
- Brow lamination
- Teeth whitening
- Makeup artistry
- Body contour tanning
Spray tanning is often the stepping stone into broader beauty entrepreneurship.
The Importance of Professional Training
While spray tanning may look easy on social media, professional training is essential if you want to charge confidently and deliver flawless results. A structured spray tan course gives you the knowledge and confidence to work safely and effectively.
A proper course teaches you:
- Skin anatomy and undertones
- How to choose the right tanning solution
- Proper hygiene and sanitation
- Contraindications and sensitivities
- Pre-care and aftercare for clients
- Correct machine handling
- How to avoid streaking or patchiness
- How to fix a spray tan if something goes wrong
- Business skills for launching your service professionally
It ensures you’re not just “winging it,” but delivering salon-level results clients will happily pay for.
Getting Started: Training With Tools Included
One of the easiest ways to begin your beauty journey is enrolling in an online spray tan course that includes everything you need. Many reputable programs offer:
- 100% online learning
- Tutor support
- Video demonstrations
- Step-by-step practical training
- A professional spray tanning kit delivered to your door
- A Certificate of Attainment upon completion
With flexible, self-paced study, you can become fully trained in weeks — not months.
How to Turn Spray Tanning Into a Money-Making Side Hustle
Step 1: Complete your spray tan training
A solid education is the foundation of any successful beauty business. Make sure your training includes practical exercises so you can perfect your technique before working on paying clients.
Step 2: Set up your space
Depending on your situation, your setup might be:
- A corner of your home with a spray tan tent
- A dedicated room styled as a mini studio
- A mobile service where you bring the tent to the client
Ensure your area is clean, professional and well-ventilated.
Step 3: Establish your pricing
Spray tanning in Australia typically costs:
- $30–$60 for a standard tan
- $50–$80 for an express tan
- $70–$100+ for mobile tanning
- $120+ for contour tanning
You can also offer packages or loyalty cards to encourage repeat bookings.
Step 4: Promote yourself
To build your client base quickly, focus on:
- Instagram reels and TikToks
- Before-and-after photos
- Posting in local Facebook groups
- Partnering with hairdressers and makeup artists
- Business cards at gyms, boutiques and tanning salons
Consistency is key the more content you post, the faster you grow.
Step 5: Deliver exceptional service
Your reputation will be the foundation of your success. Clients will return if you:
- Provide clean, hygienic service
- Offer friendly consultation
- Achieve natural, even results
- Give clear aftercare instructions
- Show genuine care
Word of mouth spreads fast when your tans look flawless.
Step 6: Expand your services (optional)
Once you’re thriving, consider broadening your offerings. Many spray tan artists add:
- Bridal tanning packages
- Group or party tanning
- Valentine’s Day, Christmas or holiday promotions
- Product retailing (tan extenders, moisturisers, scrubs)
This can dramatically increase your income.
A Helpful Video to Watch
Want to see how the pros do it? This popular tutorial breaks down a full-body spray tan application step by step:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=STqLHmDRkoU
Watching this alongside your coursework can help reinforce technique and boost confidence.
Why Now Is the Perfect Time to Start
Spray tanning isn’t just a trend it’s an industry shift. As Australians become more sun-safe and beauty-focused, demand continues to grow. Right now, spray tanning offers:
- Low barriers to entry
- Immediate income potential
- Flexible working hours
- High client demand
- Room to scale
Whether you’re a stay-at-home parent, full-time worker, student or aspiring beauty entrepreneur, it’s one of the most realistic and rewarding side hustles to begin.
Final Thoughts: Begin With the Right Education
Starting a beauty side hustle is exciting, but success comes from learning the right skills and offering a service clients can trust. A reputable spray tan course gives you everything you need to begin confidently, professionally and safely.
With the right training and commitment, you can transform spray tanning from a passion into a profitable, flexible and fulfilling business one that fits your lifestyle and gives you the freedom to earn on your terms.
