Breaking Down the Benefits of Violet vs. Green Bases in Spray Tan Solutions
Aug 31, 2025
One game-changing factor that can boost the experience your clients get from their spray tan and elevate the ability to achieve a flawless, natural-looking spray tan is choosing the right undertone. At X-Tan Sunless, we know that not all bronzers are created equal, and the undertone you select can make or break how your client feels when they look in the mirror after their appointment. Two of the most popular options in professional spray tanning are violet-based solutions and green-based solutions. Both serve a unique purpose, and knowing when to use each ensures every client leaves looking radiant—not orange.
Why Undertones Can Make a Difference in Spray Tanning
Spray tan base colors are designed to counteract natural skin pigments and neutralize undertones. Using color theory to choose the bronzer base color that will counteract undertones will help create a true brown finish that doesn't appear too brassy, orange, yellow, red, or unnatural. By choosing a solution with the proper base, spray tan artists can truly enhance the client’s complexion while delivering a smooth, even fade.
The Benefits of Violet-Based Spray Tans
Violet-based solutions are ideal for clients with olive or yellow-based skin tones. Since olive skin can sometimes pull green or ashy, violet undertones help neutralize these shades and deliver a rich, golden-brown finish.
Key benefits of violet undertone spray tans include:
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Preventing an orange or brassy appearance
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Enhancing medium to darker complexions
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Delivering a deeper, Caribbean-inspired tan
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Perfect for clients who want a bold, vacation-ready glow
Many professional spray tan artists rely on violet undertone solutions for clients who fall within the medium range of Fitzpatrick skin types, specifically types 3 and 4. These are typically the clients who are looking for a darker, tropical finish.
The Benefits of Green-Based Spray Tans
Green-based solutions are the most universal, making them a go-to choice for clients with fair to light-medium skin tones. Since fair skin can easily pull red or pink, green undertones balance these pigments and create a natural, sun-kissed bronze.
Key benefits of green undertone spray tans include:
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Neutralizing red and pink skin tones
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Creating a soft, natural-looking tan
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Suitable for a wide range of skin types
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Ideal for first-time spray tan clients who want subtle, believable results
Green-based spray tans are often the “safe bet” for beginners, bridal clients, or anyone seeking a low-maintenance, natural-looking glow. For best results, choose to use a green-based solution on clients who are Fitzpatrick skin types 1 or 2.
How to Choose Between Violet and Green Undertones
When deciding which solution base to use, always consider your client’s skin undertone, occasion, and desired depth of color:
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Choose violet bases for olive-toned clients or those seeking a dark, vacation-ready tan.
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Choose green undertones for fair or pink-toned clients, brides, and anyone looking for a softer, everyday glow.
By understanding how violet vs. green solution bases work, spray tan artists can confidently customize each tan, improve client satisfaction, and elevate their professional results.
At X-Tan Sunless, our violet and green-based solutions are formulated for long-lasting color, smooth fades, and natural results your clients will rave about. Additionally, with our Bronzite solution line, you can implement simplified customization by using our Bronzing Drops, which can transform any Bronzite solution into a red, green, or violet-based formula. Explore our full collection today and find the perfect match for every skin type.
