Hidden Gems: Meet Kristin Cole of Tan Artistry

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kristin Cole.

Hi Kristin, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I’ve been an esthetician for 18 years, and I originally started my career focusing on facials and waxing. Those early years gave me a really strong foundation in understanding the skin and how to care for it properly.

About 10 years into my career, I discovered airbrush tanning and completely fell in love with it. I loved the confidence it gave my clients, and it quickly became a bigger part of my business. Over time, I naturally transitioned into specializing in tanning while still carrying that skincare background with me.

What I didn’t expect was how much of a creative outlet it would become. There’s a level of detail and customization in airbrush tanning that really feels like an art form, and that’s something I’ve continued to refine over the years.

Today, my work is a blend of both, combining skin knowledge with a more customized, thoughtful approach to tanning to create results that look natural, feel good on the skin, and are tailored to each client.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t been a completely smooth road. One of the biggest challenges I faced was in 2020. I had just moved into a new space, which was a big financial step for me, and almost immediately everything shut down due to COVID.

I was closed for a few months, and even after reopening, there wasn’t much demand for tanning with events and travel on pause. It was a really uncertain time, especially after taking on higher overhead.

But looking back, that period pushed me to grow in ways I probably wouldn’t have otherwise. It gave me the space to step back, refine my services, and become much more intentional about the direction of my business.

What felt like a setback at the time ended up being a turning point that helped shape what I offer today.

Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Tan Artistry?
My business, Tan Artistry, is centered around customized airbrush tanning with a strong foundation in skin health. With my background as an esthetician, I approach tanning differently than most. I don’t see it as just applying color, but as a treatment that should work with the skin, not against it.

Over the years, I’ve seen how harsh traditional sunless tanning can be, which is why I’ve focused on creating what I call “skin-loving tans.” My services are designed to be more hydrating, supportive, and tailored to each client’s skin type and lifestyle, which ultimately leads to better, more natural-looking results.

The “artistry” side of my brand comes from the level of customization and detail that goes into each appointment. No two clients are the same, so no two tans should be either. Every tan is adjusted based on the individual, from tone to depth to overall finish. It’s a very intentional process.

What I’m most proud of is creating something that feels refined but still personal. Clients know they’re getting a result that’s been carefully thought out and designed specifically for them.

Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
I think the industry is definitely shifting toward a more skin-conscious and ingredient-aware approach. Clients are becoming more educated, and they’re starting to care not just about the immediate result, but about how products and services are affecting their skin long-term.

I also see a continued move toward customization. People don’t want a one-size-fits-all tan anymore. They want something that’s tailored to their skin tone, their lifestyle, and even specific events.

Another shift is the overall quality of the experience. Clients are looking for services that feel more intentional and personal, not rushed or overly transactional.

I also think we’ll see more appreciation for the skill behind airbrush tanning. As the industry grows, clients will start to recognize the difference between a quick service and a truly customized result.

I think the businesses that will continue to grow are the ones that focus on both results and experience; creating something that feels thoughtful, consistent, and truly client-focused.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://tanartistry.com
• Instagram: tanartistry_plano
• Other: https://maps.app.goo.gl/JSjujmFjPq16y4D89?g_st=ic

Image Credits
Misti Davis