Different Spray Tan Solution Bases Explained (Violet, Green, Brown)

May 06, 2026

 

If you’ve ever wondered why some spray tan artists choose different spray tan solution options based on their clients' skin tone while others opt for a neutral brown base, you’re not alone!

Understanding the difference between violet-based, green-based, and brown-based spray tan solutions is what takes every spray tan into a new dimension of artistry. And if you’re using professional solutions like X-Tan Sunless, mastering this is how you create fully customized, luxury results your clients rave about. Let’s break it all down.

 

What Are Spray Tan Solution Bases?

A spray tan solution base refers to the color guide used in the formula to counteract different skin undertones during the tanning process, while helping the artist determine how much and where they're spraying the solution on the skin.

Since DHA (the active tanning ingredient) develops into a brown tone on the skin, the base color helps neutralize unwanted hues like orange, red/pink, or ashy tones.

 

Think of it like color theory for skin:

  • Opposites on the color wheel cancel each other out

  • The right base = the perfect, natural-looking tan

 

Violet-Based Spray Tan Solutions

Best for:

  • Yellow or olive undertones

  • Clients who tend to pull a more brassy tone

  • Cooler, deeper bronzed results

Why it works:

Violet cancels out yellow tones in the skin, creating a rich, deep, cool-toned tan.

Pro insight:

This is one of the most popular bases for achieving that “vacation bronze” look especially for clients who want depth without warmth.

 

Green-Based Spray Tan Solutions

Best for:

  • Pink or red undertones

  • Fair skin

  • Clients who get flushed easily

Why it works:

Green neutralizes redness, resulting in a balanced, natural-looking tan that doesn’t appear too warm.

Pro insight:

Green-based solutions are a go-to for first-time clients who are nervous about looking orange.

 

Brown-Based Spray Tan Solutions

Best for:

  • All undertones

  • Clients wanting a classic glow

  • Universal, everyday tanning results

Why it works:

Brown-based solutions enhance the skin’s natural tone without heavily correcting undertones, giving a warm, sun-kissed finish.

Pro insight:

This is your “safe” base, but not always the base you should choose if customization is your goal.

 

Why Customization Is Everything in Spray Tanning

Here’s where most artists plateau…

They rely on one solution for every client.

 

But high-level artists know that customization can equal better results, better retention, and higher pricing power. That’s where X-Tan Sunless completely changes the game.

 

Meet the Bronzite Line + Custom Drops

The Bronzite Line was designed for artists who want full control over their results without the guesswork.

 

With Bronzite Drops, you can:

  • Adjust undertones on the spot

  • Deepen or soften results

  • Customize every single client’s tan

  • Color correct undertones instead of hoping for the best

 

Spray tan artists around the globe love the Bronzite line becuase they can choose the level of customization they want. Instead of being locked into one base, you can build the perfect solution every time.

 

Example:

  • Client with olive undertones but slight redness? → Blend violet + a touch of green

  • Fair client wanting depth without orange? → Start neutral + add violet drops

This is how artists can take “good tans” to next-level, luxury results.

 

How to Choose the Right Spray Tan Base (Quick Guide)

  • If your client pulls orange → go violet

  • If your client is red or pink → go green

  • If your client is neutral → start with brown, then customize

Or better yet, don’t choose just one. Bronzite gives you permission to simplify the customization process because all the solutions are formulated with a brown base and can be paired with any color Bronzing Drops that you wish to use.

 

Final Thoughts: The Difference Clients Notice (and Pay For)

Most clients don’t know what “violet-based” or “green-based” means…

But they do know when their tan looks:

  • Natural

  • Even

  • Flawless in every lighting

That’s the difference between a standard service and a premium experience.

When you understand spray tan solution bases and use customizable systems like the Bronzite Line from X-Tan Sunless, you’re not just applying a tan…

You’re delivering a result that feels tailored, elevated, and worth every dollar.

 

Want to Elevate Your Results?

If you’re ready to:

  • Stop guessing undertones

  • Start customizing like a pro

  • And create 5-star, client-retaining results

Explore the Bronzite Line + Drops and take your spray tan business to the next level!