Spray Tan Artists: Here’s When to Adjust Your Gun Settings
Spray Tan Gun Settings 101: How the Thickness of a Solution Affects a Tan
When it comes to flawless spray tan results, it’s not just about the shade, it’s about the spray. One key factor that often gets overlooked? The thickness (or viscosity) of your spray tan solution. Whether you're using a water-light express formula or a thicker, hydrating blend, the consistency of your solution directly impacts how you should set up your spray tan gun. From airflow to nozzle size and fluid control, dialing in the right settings ensures even application, prevents overspray, and keeps your results looking pro-level every time.
Ahead, we break down everything that affects the viscosity of a solution and when to adjust your gun accordingly.
1. High Moisture Content & Hydrating Additives
Thicker solutions often include rich, skin-nourishing ingredients that add weight and density, like:
Aloe vera (super common and naturally thick)
Hyaluronic acid
Glycerin
Natural oils or butters (like coconut oil, jojoba, or shea extract)Vitamin serums or botanical blends
These ingredients are amazing for hydration and skin feel, but they also increase viscosity.
2. Higher DHA Concentration
The more DHA (the active tanning ingredient), the more "substance" the solution can have. High-DHA solutions—like express or ultra-dark options—can sometimes be slightly thicker, depending on the base.
3. pH Balancers and Skin Conditioners
Formulas with pH adjusters, anti-aging complexes, or skin-soothing agents (like allantoin, panthenol, or niacinamide) may be a bit heavier depending on how they’re blended.
4. Emulsifiers & Thickeners
Some brands add ingredients to stabilize the formula or enhance glide on the skin, such as:
Xanthan gum
Carbomer
Guar gum These natural (or synthetic) thickeners help the product stick better to the skin but also make it denser in texture.
5. Natural vs Synthetic Base
Natural-based solutions (like those with organic or clean-beauty ingredients) often rely on thicker natural carriers like aloe.
Water- or alcohol-based solutions tend to be thinner and more “runny,” spraying more easily.
Want a quick test?
Shake the bottle and watch how the liquid moves. If it flows slowly, it's thicker. If it moves fast and splashy, it's thinner.
So basically, thicker solutions always tend to be more nourishing, hydrating, glide on the skin easier and have a higher dha percentage.
Some solutions that have all of these benefits and have a higher viscosity include:
Unfiltered That Night in Miami, Rapid, 15% Brown Solution: Higher DHA, infused with aloe, cucumber extract, and jojoba seed oil
Unfiltered Forever 29, Rapid, 14% Brown Solution: Higher DHA, infused with aloe, glycerin, white tea extract, green tea extract
When you are working with thicker solutions, it’s key to adjust the nozzle or spray pattern settings AKA open your gun. Here’s why:
Why You Should Open Your Spray Tan Gun for Thicker Solutions:
Thicker Formulas Flow Slower. Opening your gun lets more product through, helping to maintain a smooth, even mist.
Prevents Sputtering or Spotting. If the gun is too tight and you're using a dense formula, it can cause inconsistent spray, sputtering, or even clogging, which results in uneven application and possible patchiness on the skin.
Ensures Even Coverage. A more open setting gives you better atomization (a finer, even mist) even with a thicker solution. That means flawless blending, less risk of oversaturation in some areas, and a better-looking tan overall.
Reduces Hand Fatigue. A tightly closed gun forces you to pull harder on the trigger, especially with viscous formulas. Opening it up a bit helps the gun do the work for you—smoother spray with less pressure.
Improves Client Comfort. A clogged or inconsistent spray can feel sticky or “spitty” on the skin. Opening the gun helps create a soft, continuous flow that's more comfortable and professional-feeling for the client.
Tip: When switching to a thicker solution, test your spray gun on a paper towel or piece of cardboard first. If you’re getting large droplets or the spray feels too light, turn the fluid nozzle counterclockwise slightly until you get a fine, even mist.
Unfiltered is gluten-free, paraben-free, vegan-friendly, cruelty-free and eco certified. Professionals can shop Unfiltered at wholesale prices directly on UnfilteredTan.com and be sure to follow them along @unfilteredsunless on Instagram. Use code GLOWTFUP for 10% off on unfilteredtan.com.