We all know the dangers of too much sunbathing yet having a suntan makes us feel good so here are my tips on how to apply a fake tan successfully.

1. Apply in the bathroom – fake tan will stain carpet so best not to apply it in your bedroom.
2. For a perfect fake tan you need to start with smooth skin.
3. Exfoliate – take your favourite body scrub and apply taking extra care with your knees and elbows where you get a build up of dead skin. Work into your skin then shower off.
4. Wear gloves – not your marigolds but thin latex gloves to avoid your hands getting stained.
5. Salon strength tan – apply a moisturiser first to your knees and elbows to avoid them going too dark.
6. Use a coloured tanning lotion – this will help you see where you have applied it and the bits you have missed. Start at your feet and work your way upwards towards your face.
7. For the bits you can’t reach – such as the middle of your back use a sponge on the end of a wooden mixing spoon or ask your husband, partner or a friend to help out.
8. For your face – use a tanner specifically for the face, you can mix it with your moisturiser for a more natural look.
9. Wait 5 – 10 minutes – then put on something loose such as an old dressing gown while you wait for the tan to develop.
10. After 4 – 6 hours have a shower and you should be left with a glowing tan.

Body lotion tanner – when using a moisturiser with a hint of tan work from the feet upwards but leave your ankles and knees till last to avoid them going too dark and then wash your hands.

A fake tan will not give you any protection from the suns rays so you will still need to wear a sunscreen.

Last Updated: March 05, 2009