Spray Tan vs. Self-Tanner vs. Tanning Bed

Professional spray tan

• Custom-matched color applied evenly by a specialist — including your back.
• From $50+ per session; done in about 20 minutes.
• UV-free color that endures for a week or more.
• Best for: events, photos, and anyone who wants a guaranteed even result.

At-home self-tanner

• Lowest cost per application and total schedule freedom.
• Results depend entirely on your technique — hands, feet, and your own back are the classic trouble spots.
• Great for maintaining a professional tan between sessions (the studio's Tanning Drops are made for this).
• Best for: touch-ups, gradual color, and budget-first routines.

Tanning bed

• Uses UV light — the option dermatologists consistently advise against.
• Color builds slowly over multiple sessions and comes with real skin-health trade-offs.
• Best for: nothing a UV-free alternative can't do. A spray tan delivers the look without the UV.

The bottom line

For a guaranteed, even, camera-ready result on a deadline, a professional spray tan wins. For stretching that result between visits, a good self-tanner (like Tanning Drops) is the perfect partner. The tanning bed's only unique feature is the one you don't want.