WHO ARE WE?
Professional Sunless®
The Science Behind Sunless™
Our education delivers real expertise and thorough guidance for artists who are new or overwhelmed by changing trends and techniques. Instead of chasing hype, it breaks down the science of sunless tanning—how ingredients interact with the skin, what impacts results, and why strong fundamentals matter. Built from nearly two decades in sunless and 18 years of artist education, our training combines science, technique, client care, and professional standards in a clear, no-nonsense format artists love. Workshops, homework, and a comprehensive Final Certification Assessment reinforce your education and require you to apply and demonstrate what you’ve learned. Our certification process ensures the knowledge and skills behind the certification have been evaluated before it is awarded, because certification should reflect proven competency, not participation alone.
You’ll leave thoroughly prepared for real clients, with the knowledge, skill, and confidence to stand out in the industry.
Michele Alesandra -A.K.A 'SprayTan Michele'
Choosing the right spray tan training can feel overwhelming, and taking the wrong one can leave you with more questions than answers. Whether you’re still deciding or trying to fill in the gaps, you’re in the right place.
Hailing from the Philadelphia region, where keeping it real is what we’re known for, I bring that same authentic approach to your training—clear, practical education that reveals the answers to your "whys" and helps you understand your "how's," giving you the confidence to succeed!
From Experience to Education
In 2008, my passion for fitness and tanning intersected when I became the exclusive backstage sunless artist for professional bodybuilding competitions. Back then, education in sunless tanning was scarce, if it existed at all. I had to learn everything through trial and error, and by closely observing the results of my work. While I learned how to work with a variety of skin types and pigments to achieve the darkest possible color for each competitor, I also saw how factors like:
- Supplements
- Sweat
- Lighting
- Body heat
influenced how tans adhered to the skin and developed. This experience made me realize that these same challenges happen in regular client sessions as well, but with additional factors like:
- Medications
- Skin prep
- Room temperature
- Climate
All of which impact solution adherence and the tan’s final result. I, of course, went on to figure out as fast as I could how to address these factors, so my competitors could achieve flawless-stage ready color.
Educating Artist Worldwide
In 2009, I began training artists on the East Coast, creating the curriculum for the once-renowned Airbrush Tanning Institute. My focus was on:
- Solving artists’ top challenges with simple solutions
- Sparking “aha” moments when everything clicked
- Breaking down complex tanning concepts for clear understanding
This hands-on approach turned into a passion, fueling my drive to keep improving
Building Better Spray Tan Education
With years of experience behind me, I’ve modernized and expanded my training to reflect the latest trends in sunless tanning. The updated training includes:
- Methods to stay ahead of industry trends and changing formulations
- Eliminating the confusion around evolving products
- Continuing to offer science-backed learning tools that keep leading to those “Aha” moments for artists.
From this passion, The Sunless Artist Institute™ was built—a place where artists can learn, grow, and advance their skills in sunless tanning. Our programs are designed to simplify the science and strengthen the way artists approach and understand their work.
Industry Recognition
Years of dedication have given me the opportunity to work with ESPN hosts,, Fox and ABC News anchors, professional sports and cheer teams, NASCAR, and clients attending high-profile events. With this experience, I continue to push the boundaries of sunless tanning, helping artists excel and elevate the industry to new heights.
