Top 10 Tanning Consultant Certifications

Certifications for tanning consultants are important for a number of reasons. First and foremost, certifications demonstrate to potential employers that the consultant has the knowledge and skills necessary for the job. With a certification, employers can be assured that the consultant is up-to-date on all safety protocols and industry standards related to tanning. Furthermore, certifications also give consultants an edge in the job market as they show potential employers that they have taken the initiative to further their education and gain relevant experience in their field. Finally, certifications may also allow consultants to access higher paying positions or promotions within the tanning industry.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Tanning Consultants and explain how they can help to enhance a tanning consultant's career.

What are Tanning Consultant Certifications?

Tanning consultant certification is a program designed to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide safe and effective tanning services. This certification teaches participants about the safety practices, techniques, and equipment used for tanning, as well as how to properly consult with clients. It also covers topics such as skin types, skin cancer awareness, and regulations concerning the use of tanning beds.

By obtaining this certification, individuals can gain the confidence needed to excel in a career as a tanning consultant. With this knowledge and skill set, they are able to better serve their clients by providing quality service that meets all safety standards. Additionally, certified tanning consultants are able to offer more accurate advice on how best to achieve desired results without putting their client’s health at risk. This certification also provides a competitive edge in the industry by demonstrating commitment and expertise in the field of tanning services.

Pro Tip: Research tanning consultant certifications that are offered in your area to ensure you have the most up-to-date knowledge and skills necessary for a successful career as a tanning consultant. Certification can also help you stand out from other applicants when competing for jobs.

Related: What does a Tanning Consultant do?

Top 10 Tanning Consultant Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Tanning Consultants today.

1. Certified Tanning Consultant (CTC)

A Certified Tanning Consultant (CTC) is a professional designation that recognizes an individual’s expertise in the field of indoor tanning. The certification is offered by the International Smart Tan Network and requires successful completion of an online course, as well as passing an exam.

The course takes approximately 10 hours to complete, and covers topics such as the history of tanning, skin anatomy and physiology, UV radiation, safety standards and regulations, client consultation techniques, marketing and sales strategies, and more. After completing the course material, students must pass a 50-question multiple-choice exam with a score of at least 80%.

To become certified, students must register for the CTC program on the International Smart Tan Network website. The cost for registration is $99 USD. Upon successful completion of the course and exam requirements, students will receive their CTC certificate from the International Smart Tan Network.

2. Certified Sunless Tanning Consultant (CSTC)

A Certified Sunless Tanning Consultant (CSTC) is a professional who has been trained in the safe and effective application of sunless tanning products. The certification program is designed to ensure that certified professionals are knowledgeable about the latest sunless tanning techniques, products, and safety guidelines.

The CSTC certification program typically takes approximately 10 hours of coursework and hands-on training. It covers topics such as selecting the right product for each client’s skin type, proper application techniques, aftercare instructions, and health and safety protocols.

To become a CSTC, you must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent. You will also need to complete an approved training program offered by a certified instructor or organization. Once you have completed the coursework and passed the exam, you will receive your certification.

The cost of becoming a CSTC varies depending on where you take the training course. Generally speaking, it can range from $100-$500 USD for the entire program.

3. Certified UV Tanning Technician (CVTT)

A Certified UV Tanning Technician (CVTT) is a professional who has been certified by the National Tanning Training Institute (NTTI). The certification is designed to ensure that tanning technicians have the knowledge and skills necessary to safely and effectively operate UV tanning equipment.

The certification process typically takes about 4-6 weeks to complete, depending on how quickly you can study and take the required exams. To become certified, you must first complete an online course in basic UV tanning safety and operation, which includes topics such as skin types, tanning techniques, safety protocols, and more. After completing the course, you must then pass two exams: a written exam and a practical exam. Once both exams are passed with a passing grade of 80% or higher, you will receive your certification.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on the program you choose. Most programs charge between $200-$400 for the online course and exam fees.

Once certified, CVTTs are qualified to work in salons or spas that offer UV tanning services. They are also eligible for additional certifications from NTTI such as advanced UV tanning technician or master UV tanning technician.

4. Certified Professional Spray Tan Technician (CPSTT)

Certified Professional Spray Tan Technician (CPSTT) is a certification program offered by the International Smart Tan Network that provides training and certification to individuals who wish to become professional spray tan technicians. The CPSTT program is designed to teach students the skills necessary to safely and effectively provide spray tan services.

The CPSTT program consists of two parts: an online course and an in-person exam. The online course covers topics such as safety, sanitation, product knowledge, application techniques, customer service, and more. This course takes approximately 8 hours to complete. Once the online course is completed, students must pass an in-person exam at a Smart Tan facility in order to receive their certification.

The cost of the CPSTT program varies depending on where you take it; however, it typically costs around $300 - $400 USD for both the online course and in-person exam.

5. Certified Airbrush Tanning Technician (CATT)

Certified Airbrush Tanning Technician (CATT) is a certification program designed to train and certify airbrush tanning technicians. The program is offered by the Professional Airbrush Tanning Association (PATA).

The CATT certification program consists of an online course, which covers the fundamentals of airbrush tanning, such as safety, sanitation, skin types and colors, product knowledge and application techniques. Upon successful completion of the course, students will receive a certificate of completion.

The online course typically takes about 8-10 hours to complete, depending on the student’s pace. The cost for the online course is $149.99 USD.

Once students have completed the online course, they must pass a written exam in order to become certified as an Airbrush Tanning Technician. The exam is administered by PATA and must be taken at an approved testing center. The cost for the exam is $99 USD.

Upon successful completion of both the online course and written exam, students will receive their CATT certification from PATA and can begin practicing airbrush tanning professionally.

6. Certified Skin Care and Sun Protection Specialist (CSSPS)

Certified Skin Care and Sun Protection Specialist (CSSPS) is a certification program designed to provide skin care professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to become experts in skin care, sun protection, and other related topics. The program is offered by the International Dermal Institute (IDI), a leading provider of educational programs for skin care professionals.

The CSSPS certification program consists of two parts: an online course and an in-person examination. The online course covers topics such as the anatomy and physiology of the skin, product ingredients, sun protection, skin cancer prevention, aging skin, and more. Upon completion of the online course, participants must pass an in-person exam to receive their certification.

The cost of the CSSPS certification program varies depending on your location and whether you choose to take the online or in-person exam. In general, it costs around $500-$700 USD for both parts of the program.

It typically takes about 6 months to complete the CSSPS certification program. This includes time spent studying for the exam as well as attending any required seminars or workshops that may be part of the program.

7. Certified Salon Manager (CSM)

Certified Salon Manager (CSM) is a certification program designed to recognize excellence in salon management. The certification is offered by the Professional Beauty Association (PBA), and it provides recognition for salon managers who have achieved a high level of professional excellence.

The CSM program consists of an online curriculum that covers topics such as customer service, staff development, budgeting, marketing, and other aspects of salon management. To become certified, applicants must successfully complete the coursework and pass an exam. The exam includes multiple-choice questions related to the content covered in the coursework.

The cost of the CSM program varies depending on whether you are taking the course online or in person. Online courses typically cost around $500-$600 while in-person courses can cost up to $1,000. The program takes approximately 6 months to complete if taken online and 8-12 weeks if taken in person.

To get started with the CSM program, applicants must first register for the course through PBA’s website. Once registered, applicants will be given access to the online course materials and will be able to begin studying for their exam. Upon successful completion of the coursework and passing of the exam, applicants will receive their CSM certificate from PBA.

8. Advanced Sunless Tanning Certification (ASTC)

Advanced Sunless Tanning Certification (ASTC) is a certification program designed to provide advanced education and training for professionals who work in the sunless tanning industry. ASTC provides an in-depth understanding of the safety and application of sunless tanning products, as well as the latest trends and techniques in the field. It is a two-day course that covers topics such as skin anatomy, product selection, application methods, maintenance, safety protocols, client consultation and aftercare.

The ASTC certification program can be completed in two days at a cost of $395 USD. The course is offered through various organizations including The Sunless Tanning Association (STA), National Coalition of Estheticians, Manufacturers/Distributors & Associations (NCEA), and International Smart Tan Network (ISTN). To get certified, you must attend both days of instruction and successfully pass the written exam at the end of the course. Upon passing the exam, you will receive your ASTC certificate.

The ASTC certification is an important credential for those working in sunless tanning services because it demonstrates their knowledge and expertise in this field. It also helps employers recognize qualified professionals who are knowledgeable about sunless tanning products and techniques.

9. National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention Certification (NCSCP)

The National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention Certification (NCSCP) is a certification program designed to provide healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively diagnose, treat, and prevent skin cancer. The certification is awarded by the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), which is a professional organization for dermatologists.

In order to receive the NCSCP certification, individuals must complete an online course that covers topics such as skin anatomy, types of skin cancer, risk factors for developing skin cancer, prevention strategies, and early detection techniques. The course takes approximately 10 hours to complete and includes multiple-choice exams at the end of each module. Upon successful completion of the course and exams, individuals are awarded a certificate from the AAD indicating their successful completion of the NCSCP program.

The cost for taking the NCSCP course is $150 USD. This fee covers all materials needed for completing the program as well as access to an online support system where questions can be answered by certified instructors or other students in the program.

Once certified, individuals will have demonstrated their knowledge in skin cancer prevention and detection. This can help them gain recognition in their field and potentially lead to higher salaries or more opportunities within their profession.

10. International Smart Tan Network Certification (ISTN)

The International Smart Tan Network Certification (ISTN) is a certification program developed by the Smart Tan Network, a professional organization dedicated to providing education and resources on responsible indoor tanning. The ISTN certification is designed to help salon owners and employees understand the risks associated with indoor tanning, as well as how to properly operate and maintain their equipment.

To obtain the ISTN certification, applicants must complete an online course that covers topics such as skin anatomy, UV radiation, tanning regulations, proper operation of equipment, and customer service. The course takes approximately 8 hours to complete and consists of quizzes and an exam.

Once the course is completed, applicants must submit a $50 fee for processing and receive their certificate within four weeks. Upon receipt of the certificate, salon owners can display it in their business as proof that they have taken steps to ensure their customers are receiving safe tanning services.

The ISTN certification is valid for two years from the date of issue and can be renewed by completing additional training courses or taking refresher exams.

Do You Really Need a Tanning Consultant Certificate?

When it comes to tanning, the process can be quite complicated and potentially dangerous if done incorrectly. For that reason, many tanning salons require their employees to have a tanning consultant certificate before they are allowed to work with clients. While having a certificate may not seem like an absolute necessity, there are several very important reasons why it is beneficial for tanning professionals to obtain one.

For starters, having a tanning consultant certificate shows that you are knowledgeable and well-versed in the field of tanning. This certification will demonstrate your understanding of the different types of equipment used in the process as well as safety protocols that must be followed in order to prevent skin damage or overexposure. It will also show potential employers that you are serious about providing quality service and taking the necessary precautions when working with clients.

In addition to this, a tanning consultant certificate can provide you with valuable networking opportunities within the industry. By obtaining this certification, you gain access to exclusive professional training and seminars which can help you stay up-to-date on new techniques and industry trends. Having a certificate also allows you to join organizations such as The International Smart Tan Network (ISTN), which provides additional resources and support for those who work in the field of tanning.

Finally, having a tanning consultant certificate can open up new job opportunities or promotional possibilities within your current position. Many employers prefer hiring individuals who possess this type of certification because they know these individuals have met certain standards and have proven themselves capable of providing quality service in a safe manner.

Overall, while having a tanning consultant certificate may not seem like an absolute necessity at first glance, it is definitely an important credential that can benefit both job seekers and current professionals alike. It is evidence of your commitment to providing excellent service as well as your knowledge of proper safety protocols and procedures when performing any type of tanning treatments for clients.

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FAQs About Tanning Consultant Certifications

Q1: What type of certification do I need to become a tanning consultant?

A1: To become a tanning consultant, you will need to obtain a Certified Tanning Consultant (CTC) certification from the National Tanning Training Institute (NTTI).

Q2: How much does it cost to get certified as a tanning consultant?

A2: The cost of obtaining your CTC certification varies depending on the specific course you take. Generally, the cost ranges from $300-$600.

Q3: How long does it take to complete the certification process?

A3: It typically takes between 8-10 weeks to complete the certification process. However, this may vary depending on the type of course you select and how quickly you are able to complete the required coursework.

Q4: What topics are covered in the CTC certification program?

A4: The CTC program covers topics such as anatomy and physiology, skin types and skin care products, tanning technology and products, customer service skills, business operations and more.

Q5: Are there any prerequisites for becoming a certified tanning consultant?

A5: Yes, in order to become a certified tanning consultant, you must have at least one year of experience in the field or have completed an accredited training program. Additionally, you must also pass an exam administered by NTTI in order to receive your CTC certification.