From Streaky to Stunning: How to Troubleshoot Common Spray Tan Fails

A flawless spray tan can transform your client’s confidence — but even the most experienced spray tan artists occasionally run into problems like streaks, patchiness, or uneven fading. The good news? Every “spray tan fail” has a cause and a fix.

Whether you’re a beginner spray tan artist or a seasoned pro, this guide will walk you through the most common issues, why they happen, and exactly how to troubleshoot them so you can deliver consistently stunning results.

1. Streaks or Patchiness Right After Application

The Problem:

Color looks uneven, with darker or lighter “strips” in certain areas.

The Likely Cause:

• Oversaturation in certain spots (too much solution sprayed at once)

• Spraying too far from or too close to the skin

• Solution drying unevenly due to humidity or client movement

• Poor exfoliation before the appointment

The Fix:

• Adjust your technique: Maintain 6–8 inches between the gun and the skin for an even mist. Use consistent, overlapping strokes.

• Blend as you go: Keep a blending brush or mitt handy to softly diffuse any darker spots before the tan sets.

• Educate clients on prep: Provide a clear pre-tan checklist that emphasizes exfoliation 24 hours before the appointment.

• Control your environment: Use a fan or extraction system to keep airflow consistent.

2. Overly Dark Hands, Elbows, or Knees

The Problem:

Dry, textured areas look darker than the rest of the tan.

The Likely Cause:

• Excess solution clinging to rough skin

• Lack of barrier cream or uneven application

• Client bending joints too soon after tanning

The Fix:

• Pre-treat dry areas: Apply a thin layer of barrier cream to hands, feet, elbows, and knees before spraying.

• Mist lightly: Reduce spray passes on these areas and feather the color outward for a natural fade.

• Instruct proper drying posture: Encourage clients to keep limbs slightly bent until fully dry.

3. Orange or Brassy Results

The Problem:

Instead of a golden bronze, the tan has an unnatural orange tone.

The Likely Cause:

• Using the wrong DHA level for the client’s skin type

• Overdeveloping (leaving solution on too long)

• Poor-quality solution with unstable bronzers

The Fix:

• Match DHA to skin tone: For fair clients, stick to 8–10% DHA. Medium skin can handle 10–12%, and deeper tones can go higher.

• Control rinse time: Provide a post-tan care card that outlines exact rinse instructions for your solution type.

• Use fresh, high-quality solution: Store X-Tan Sunless products in a cool, dark place and use within 6 months for best results.

4. Rapid or Uneven Fading

The Problem:

The tan fades patchy, especially around the chest, neck, and arms.

The Likely Cause:

• Inconsistent skin hydration after the tan

• Harsh soaps, exfoliants, or chlorinated water exposure

• Heavy sweating in the first 24 hours

The Fix:

• Client aftercare education: Recommend sulfate-free, pH-balanced cleansers and daily moisturizing.

• Suggest gradual tanners: These can help maintain color between appointments.

• Remind about water exposure: No swimming, sweating, or long baths for the first 24 hours.

5. Missed Spots or Lighter Areas

The Problem:

Some areas (often inner arms, sides, or under the chin) look lighter than the rest.

The Likely Cause:

• Skipping tricky-to-reach angles during spraying

• Client’s body position blocking spray coverage

• Not enough overlapping passes

The Fix:

• Use multiple angles: Have clients turn palms up, raise arms slightly, and tilt head for better coverage.

• Check your work: Step back and scan the client under bright lighting before they leave the booth.

• Practice precision passes: Focus on smaller, controlled sprays for detailed areas.

Pro Tip: Prevention Is Always Easier Than Correction

The easiest way to troubleshoot spray tan fails is to avoid them in the first place. That means:

• Choosing the right X-Tan Sunless solution for each client’s skin type and undertone

• Keeping your spray gun clean and well-maintained

• Creating a clear pre- and post-tan care routine that clients actually follow

• Practicing your technique regularly to keep your spraying smooth and consistent

Final Glow-Up Takeaway

Every spray tan artist faces occasional streaks, patchiness, or fading — it’s part of the learning process. The difference between an average tan and a stunning one often comes down to knowing how to quickly identify the problem and apply the right fix.

By dialing in your technique, using high-quality products like X-Tan Sunless solutions, and educating your clients every step of the way, you can turn even the trickiest “tan fails” into glowing, loyal customers who keep coming back.

Ready to deliver flawless results every time?

Shop our professional spray tan solutions here and explore our Skin Types + Solutions Masterclass to perfect your color-matching skills to perfect your color-matching skills.