Spray Tan Contouring 101: How to Sculpt Abs, Cheeks & Peaches Like a Pro

Spray Tan Contouring 101: How to Sculpt Abs, Cheeks & Peaches Like a Pro

Want to give your clients a tan so good they literally gasp when they look in the mirror? Say hello to spray tan contouring—the ultimate way to level up your glow game and create a premium service that delivers snatched results and major wow-factor.
Whether you’re brand new to tan contouring or just want to refine your technique, this guide is your starting point. We’ll break down the why, the how, and the must-know tips for creating sculpted cheekbones, defined abs, and peach-lifting magic.

Why Offer Spray Tan Contouring?

Contouring is more than just a trend—it’s an elevated service that:
  • Sets you apart from other artists
  • Helps you charge more per session
  • Makes clients feel confident, sexy, and so seen
  • Shows off your artistry (and gets shared on the ‘gram)
It's the cherry on top of a flawless tan and a great way to position yourself as an expert, not just a service provider.

What You Need:

  • A professional HVLP machine with precise control
  • Fine mist setting for detail work
  • A contour solution or your regular solution in a darker shade
  • Clean brushes or detail sponges for blending if needed
  • Good lighting and a client who’s ready to serve

Areas to Contour & Pro Tips:

1. CHEEKBONES: Contour here to subtly define and lift the face.
  • Have the client smile and turn slightly.
  • Spray a light line just under the cheekbone (not too close to the jaw!).
  • Blend or feather out for a soft finish.
Pro Tip: Less is more. You’re enhancing—not painting on makeup.
2. ABS: The #1 requested contour area—everyone wants that Insta-worthy sculpted look!
  • With the client standing straight, lightly spray down each side of the ab line, just inside the obliques.
  • Add vertical lines or slight curves around the center line for added definition.
Pro Tip: Ask your client to stretch up slightly to elongate the midsection while spraying.
3. PEACH: The booty glow-up. Add lift and definition with strategic shading.
  • Spray in a “C” shape under each cheek to create shadow and lift.
  • You can also define the top curve of the glutes for a rounder appearance.
Pro Tip: Have your client stand in a split stance and slightly bend forward to make the muscle more visible.
4. COLLARBONES & SHOULDERS: Want them to glow in strapless dresses or for photos? Don’t skip these.
  • Lightly mist just under the collarbones and along the shoulders.
  • Add a highlight with a lighter tone (or clean solution) across the top of the bone.

Tips for Success:

  • Always blend with soft passes—no harsh lines.
  • Use lighting from different angles to check your work.
  • Take before-and-after pics for your portfolio.
  • Practice on friends or models before offering it as a paid service.

How to Charge for It:

Contouring is a premium add-on. Most artists charge $10–$30 extra depending on the areas and time it takes.
Or go big: create a luxe-tier service like Vacay Mode’s “Snatched Tan” and price it accordingly.
Spray tan contouring is where technique meets creativity. It allows you to serve your clients with even more intention—and positions you as the go-to artist for results that look like magic but feel like art.
The more you practice, the better (and faster) you’ll get. So get in front of that tent, get to sculpting, and watch your business and your client satisfaction glow up.
CRAFTED FOR TAN ARTISTS BY TAN ARTISTS.
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