Having glowing bronze skin is somewhat of a beauty accessory these days. Everybody wants to have an olive skin tone and if it can get darker then yay for you. In 2007, approximately 81% of young people felt that tanning improved their appearance and gave them a confidence boost. This look might not be for everyone (I am looking at you Edward Cullen) but if you can rock it, you should rock it.

​What available options are there for tan fiends? You could bask in the sun and risk getting a tone that’s so uneven you will spend summer in winter clothes. There is also the part where you have to stay put soaking in the sun’s rays while your friends are out shopping. Okay, strike that off the list. You could invest in tanning lotions and soak in UV rays in a tanning bed. Yeah UV rays, aren't those the same rays associated with cancer? Strike that one off too.

What if I told you there was a better way?

Spray tans are a great way to get bronzed. Unlike tanning beds and a sun tan, the results are almost instant. You will get color in 24 hours so they are great if you have an upcoming event. The great deal with Spray tans is they are artificial. It is simply dyeing your skin with color to achieve a bronze look. This way you do not have to worry about such things as melanoma. A number of spray tan machines have customizable levels so you get the shade most perfect for you.

Reviewing Top 5 Best Spray Tan Machines for Home Use

1. Maxi-Mist Lite Sunless Spray Tanning Kit

If you are looking for salon quality results on a budget, this machine is your best bet. Users and reviewers alike agree that this machine is the crème de la crème of tanning machines. It is perfect for home use because the motor system is intended for occasional use.

The machine is designed to work perfectly with regular spray tan solution. It comes with a big carry bag so if you want to make a few pennies, you can start a mobile tanning business. And transportation should be no problem because it is quite light weight.

There is also a professional style fabric tent to protect the surrounding area and fabric from getting stained. The tanning kit comes with a tanning solution from Tampa Bay Tan that is 100% vegan.​

​Features

Check Out Customers' Reviews

It is available in tent colors black or pink. Its spray gun has horizontal and vertical pattern and flow adjustments. There is a Teflon needle to ensure solution does not clog and prevent corrosion. It is possible to adjust the trigger and control the spray pattern for perfect precision.

The turbine motor has a 1 year warranty. Its noise levels are manageable considering it is as loud as a hair dryer. The solution cup has a conical design and wide base. This makes sure there is room for solution pick up and offers a more flexible range of movement. It is CE, EU, and ECAL certified and comes with a detailed instruction manual.

The tanning solution present is 100% organic. It is paraben and gluten free and not tested on animals.

Pros

Its solution is organic therefore safe to use. This means even sensitive skin types can use it without experiencing adverse reactions. The unit is very beginner friendly and easy to maneuver.

The Teflon needle ensures the gun remains clog free thus you get efficient results. The lightweight machine has a mobile design making it suitable for home use. You get to choose from three different colors when buying this unit.

Cons​

On the downside, the tanning solution from Tampa Bay Tan can only reach a medium color range. The instruction manual that comes with the unit has limited instructions on how to use the machine. On the brighter side, the unit is user friendly so the lack of a proper guide can be overlooked.​

BEST DEAL ONLINE: Maxi-Mist Lite Sunless Spray Tanning Kit​

2. Black Fascination FX Spray Tanning Machine and Kit

The Black Fascination FX Spray Tanning machine is sleek and beautiful with an ergonomic handle and spray applicator design. Designed with silver highlights, this machine is lightweight and very mobile. It is great for beginners and professionals alike.it comes with a carry bag, extra-large pop up tent, an 8 foot hose, and a spray gun. Anyone on a low budget should consider looking into this machine as it offers more than you paid for. You can use it in an apartment building without getting complaints from the neighbors because it is very quiet.

Features​

Check Out Customers' Reviews

The gun features a low maintenance nozzle, fluid control knob, and adjustable spray patterns. Along with the adjustable spray air cup and long life spray cup seal; these make the gun a manageable unit. It comes with the Norvell Venetian spray tanning solution. This solution gives you the ‘was away for the weekend’ look.

You also get Norvell ONE 1 hour rapid develop spray tan and Norvell XLATAN pre-sunless pH balancing spray. The Norvell solutions are amongst the best in the market making this kit a great bargain. The turbine is fitted with a direct air intake feature and a filter that is easy to clean and replace alongside variable speed controls. There is a color indicator to give the right signals during usage.

This machine has three step speed controls that give you power to work at the speed of your choosing. The spray gun produces spray in a variety of angles to give perfect results. The fascination has an 8 foot corrugated hose that is easy to move and store.

The machine is a HVLP model. This means it is very fast and does not overspray or leak so the spray tanning solution is not wasted. The HVLP component operates as an output tool. This makes it use varying flows when it is in operation. Regulating the output clip will diminish or improve the action of DHA.

Pros

The Fascination is beautiful, compact and lightweight so you can move with it. For a machine that comes with everything you need, it is quite pocket friendly. User comfort has been addressed by featuring a heat function that is adjustable. Unlike most machines in its class, it has a long lasting nozzle.

Cons

It has a twig gun that’s made of plastic. Most users have claimed that its hose is susceptible to wear and tear in certain spots.

BEST DEAL ONLINE: Black Fascination FX Spray Tanning Machine and Kit

3. Fuji Mini Tan M Model Spray Tan HVLP

This compact machine is a combination of the smallest and most powerful system on the market. Just because it is portable does not mean that Fuji compromised on quality or performance. This latest model from Fuji did not disappoint. Being a HVLP model, it is very fast and does not leak. This Fuji is among the quietest models in the market. The manufacturers made it so user friendly even a beginner would not have a problem operating it. The only adjustment a user has to make is the fluid adjustment. Once that is set, there is nothing else for you to do. You just aim, squeeze and spray.

Feataures

Check Out Customers' Reviews

The features in this machine are exclusive only to Fuji, but this comes as no surprise since it has been among the leading manufacturers of spray in the last 10 years.

There is a pattern control knob located at the side. It is meant to help you go from small to big patterns and anything in between. It does this by adjusting the speed and size of the fan. Most other spray tan machines have the adjustable part in the front collar. The advantage of having it at the side is the power it gives the user. With the Fuji Mini Tan, you have full control of how you would like your fan spinning. Fuji has designed air caps that give a cleaner spray pattern. In turn, you get less overspray and mist in the air.

The entire system is covered with a 24 month warranty. It also comes with a detailed instruction manual. It is fitted with heavy duty rubber stands to protect the floor. The unit’s air flow is trigger controlled making the air hiss less noticeable. The spray gun has a trigger valve so it does not bleed and blowing around of dust is reduced to an extent. It can be used to blow-dry a client. There is a filling station that doubles up as a built in easy to use gun holder.

The fan is easily set to be about 4” from the optimum distance of 6”. This is the most suitable fan size for spray tanning. For a smaller size fan (to use on lower arm and wrists) simply turn the pattern control knob. The ergonomic handle is insulated and will not overheat. It is CE, EU, and ECAL certified. The kit comes with a user manual plus a cleaning brush and wrench.

Pros

It is a really quiet unit which makes it suitable for home use. Like other HVLP models, it is very fast and can tan up to six people in an hour. There is also no overspray or leakage as its deluxe gun emits only 30 – 50mls of the tanning solution. There is an automatic shut off system that does not let it overheat during usage.

Cons

On the downside, it is a little heavy than some of its rivals. But look at the brighter side. Once you set it up at home, you won’t need to move it.

BEST DEAL ONLINE: Fuji Mini Tan M Model Spray Tan HVLP

Allure is the latest edition in the spray tan industry. The machine boosts a sleek body and its black and bronze metallic body only adds to its elegance. It is a lightweight and compact unit making it ideal for home use, mobile therapist, and salon use. It is famed for a patented spray nozzle that delivers the spray fan atomization.

Features

Check Out Customers' Reviews

The machine has stylized salon design that gives a lavish feel of glamour, class and luxury. Satin Spray Nozzle Technology maximizes solution use giving the smoothest tan application. It does this with the help of its patented satin spray nozzle for outstanding atomization.

The German engineered turbine unit has a built in cup holder and cord management base. The base has a twist and lock design to keep the hose secure and make setting up easy and fast. There is a gun holder so the machine can be moved while the gun is docked without spillage. You will not need extra hands with this machine as it has a retractable carry handle. The handle is uniquely hidden within the design of the turbine. You can draw it up to help in moving and storing the machine.

The unit comes with a 2 year warranty. Allure comes with Norvell products. These include; Norvell Venetian Spray Tanning Solution, Norvell xLaTan Pre-Sunless pH balancing Spray. You also get an oversized ‘Skylight’ style spray tanning tent with a carrying bag. The tent takes 30 seconds to pop up and is flame retardant.

Though kit is internally waterproof, it is easy to clean and has clear see through material in its upper sides and roof. This ensures maximum light use when tanning.

Pros

It is very portable and lightweight weighing only 1.6KG. The turbine operates at 76 decibels making it fairly quiet. The spray gun delivers optimal atomization of the solution to give a smooth spray feeling on the skin and great coverage on the body. There is very little overspray so solution is not wasted.

The unit is easy to store away due to its compact styling. In addition the cable management feature prevents tripping accidents. There is a Gold Filtration duct that collects any leakage and overspray and directs it to a discreetly hidden filter below the unit.

Cons

The machine does not come with a tent so you have to make do without or pitch a makeshift tent.

BEST DEAL ONLINE: Aura Allure Spray Tan Machine​

5. St. Tropez Pro Light Spray Tan

This device is on a league of its own. It comes with a tanning solution that has 100 percent natural DHA. Solutions from St. Tropez are designed to go as dark as you’d get from the sun and nothing more. This means you get the most natural looking tan ever. They are also paraben free and non-toxic. The machine is designed to help you get a salon quality spray tan from the comfort of your home.

Features

Check Out Customers' Reviews

A detailed spray tan technique guide to help you get a beautiful golden color. The machine and spray gun form one compact lightweight unit. The solution features Aromaguard. This is a fragrance technology that eliminates the tell-tale ‘self-tan’ scent by up to 70%.

The Micro-Whirlwind Technology delivers a continuous flow of smooth air to give a streak free finish. In addition, there is a custom 3D turbine motor that generates a powerful continuous stream of even air. St. Tropez features an Intelligent Airflow switch that emits a super fine mist that combined with the heat seal gives a flawless finish every time.

The machine is easy to clean and has a rust-free mechanism designed to minimize overspray. The gun has a two-way adjustable nozzle that allows smooth, adaptable vertical or horizontal spray patterns. The machine comes with a spray technique guide to take you through the self-tanning steps. You also get nose filters. These protect your nasal mucous membranes from getting into contact with the tanning solution.

Pros

The unit is very light and portable. Your skin feels moisturized because the tanning solution does not contain sulfates. The St. Tropez solution is 100% natural so it is safe to use on sensitive skin.

Cons

A con some users sighted is the fact that it appears to be made for shadowing because it would take at least 3 coats to get bronzed.

BEST DEAL ONLINE: St. Tropez Pro Light Spray Tan

Features packed in the best spray tan machines for homes use

When shopping for a spray tan machine, you will find you are spoilt for choice. There are a number of options available for you. That being said, not all machines in the market are suitable for home use. And unless you know the difference you might spend a lot of money on something that’s not worth it. Here are features to consider when out shopping for a spray tan kit.

• Price. The price of a product will not always reflect its quality. There are some brands that ride on the goodwill associated with their brand names. There are quality machines in the market that are pocket friendly. Most spray tan machines for home use will be cheaper than those intended for salon use. This is because salon spray tan machines are built to withstand constant use. This is not to say that home spray tan machines are of lesser quality.

• Noise and mobility. These machines are meant for your convenience. If it is too loud that neighbors have to file a noise complaint then you should not buy it. Mobility is another factor. Home spray tan machines should be lightweight and portable since they have to be stored away after every use.

• The nozzle. The spray gun is the most important feature in a spray tanning kit. The best pick is one that is designed to offer a high quality mist that covers your body evenly in all places. Nozzles that clog or emit inconsistent sprays end up giving an uneven tone. You get a thick layer of tanning solution on your skin. This can result in tan streaks or ‘beading’ of solution droplets.

• Design. The design will determine a machine’s mobility. Also, you should only buy a machine that is designed for spray tanning. With non-spray unique tan machines, it is possible to get uneven speckles that are too broad. This will waste the tanning solution (which almost costs an arm and a leg) and give you an uneven tan.

• Reliability. Dealing with well-known brands is most recommended. Good customer service is part of a brand’s reliability. Many buyers go through unpalatable experiences with brands that do not offer good return policies. Some businesses will have poor customer relation and even though they present guarantees, getting by them becomes a nightmare.

Spray tans cover your body with a fine mist that has an ingredient called Dihydroxyacetone DHA. DHA interacts with your skin’s chemistry to bronze it. The change in your skin color lasts for between 3 to 7 days. Though self-tanning or sunless tanning doesn’t provide any protection from the sun’s rays, it is completely safe on your skin.

The mist can be sprayed using an airbrush or air gun. These devices resemble the paint guns painters use. Air guns are suitable for home use because they are light and mobile. You can also buy a spray tan bottle for home use.

The Different Types of Spray Tan Machines

When shopping for a spray tan machine, you will find you are spoilt for choice. There are a number of options available for you. That being said, not all machines in the market are suitable for home use. And unless you know the difference you might spend a lot of money on something that’s not worth it.

High Volume Low Pressure Spray Tan Systems. (HVLP)

This machine is the most popular in the market. It is very light and can be used in salons, mobile businesses and homes. Most of these machines have wattage between 400W to 700W.

Advantages of using it include:

1. It does not overspray or leak so the spray tanning solution is not wasted. This is its advantage over other tanning machines in the industry. Its deluxe gun only emits 30 -50mls of the solution.
2. It is very fast. It can tan up to six people in an hour.
3. It has an automatic shut off system that does not let it overheat during usage.
4. There is an automatic heat function to dry the clients.

There are a number of variations of the HVLP machine but most work in the same way and offer the same advantages.

Low Volume Low Pressure Spray Tan Systems. (LVLP)

It might be called ‘Low Volume’ but when in operation it is noisier than the HVLP machine. The noise is caused by extra fans situated in the turbine. Spray tanning solution is forced out by turbine driven system forces. It is suitable for salon use only. Home use is ruled out because a lot of precision, skill and perfection are required when using the LVLP. Applying the solution takes approximately 10 -15 minutes.

Airbrush Spray Gun Machine

The most common variation of this machine in the market is the airbrush tanning system with compressor. Originally, it was designed for fake tattooing but has been modified for spray tan use. These machines are cheaper compared to LVLP and a lot less noisy. It delivers more solution in less time because of its high pressure. I would not recommend it as value for money. This is because it causes overspray and wastes the spray tan solution. Using the airbrush spray machine gun takes 25 – 40 minutes.

Automatic Spray Tanning Booths

These booths resemble shower cubicles. A client gets in and a spray tan solution is sprayed automatically. It comes out as mist from the numerous nozzles in the booth. This type of spray tan machine is very costly and requires a professional to set it up. Obviously you will not find such set ups on home. It is easy to use it since all you have to do is step in the booth.

Its results however, are not as accurate as those you would get from a hand held spray tan gun. One needs to do manual touch ups where the mist didn’t reach. The biggest advantage it has over other types of spray tan is how quick it is. It takes at most two minutes to tan a client. It is also popular among the affluent because it is the most private method of tanning the body.

Organic Spray Tanning

With most people switching to healthy living, it was only a matter of time before everything went organic. Even spray tanning. Organic spray tanning is slowly but surely overtaking traditional spray tanning. Its spray tan solution is made of 100% natural and organic ingredients. Products that dry out the skin such as alcohol, perfume, parabens or oil are not used.

This means that wrinkles, irritation, dry skin, rashes, and other skin problems are reduced. Supporters of this type of tanning claim it binds moisture in the skin and repairs damaged skin cells. Unlike traditional spray tanning that leaves the skin dried out, this type leaves it hydrated and radiant. People with sensitive skin can use this method without having a reaction.

Advantages of organic spray tanning

• It does not expose your skin to harmful UV rays.
• Tans last longer and fade out evenly. This is because the skin is moisturized.
• It creates an even skin tone that hides blemishes such as cellulite.
• It is odor-free. It does not smell like traditional spray tan since it is made up differently. You can get a tan minus the unpleasant scent you are used to.
• The charges are the same. You can get the health conscious organic tan at the same price you would pay for a traditional spray tan. Why not opt for the safe choice?

Shopping for a spray tan machine can be a daunting task, especially if it is your first time. There have been incidents where shoppers buy spray tan machines that don’t match with advert descriptions. Reading consumer reviews and thoroughly scrutinizing available options can save you a headache. The above spray tan machines are certain to give you value for money.

If you are torn between many options, the above spray tan machines reviews can act as pointers. Since you can’t buy them all, I’ll let you in on a secret. My favorite from the above is the St. Tropez Pro Light Spray Tan. I own one mostly because I am loyal to St. Tropez products.

The facts that its tanning solution is ‘skin-friendly’ and the tan is a natural sun-kissed color are reasons I’d recommend it to anyone. Plus it is quite so it gives a sense of privacy. Always remember to clean the machine after use to prevent buildup and clogging. Gift yourself with any of the above and see the kind of new energy a tan can add to your life.