Nothing says summer like an all-over golden glow. Luckily there are many tanning options available so you can achieve a bronze color without the sun damage. Learn the tips and tricks that make self-tanning a breeze. 

To prepare your skin, you must exfoliate to remove any dead skin cells or debris that will cause a streaky or blotchy application. After you exfoliate the area, skip applying moisturizer because this can dilute the color and create a greasy, goopy mess. To exfoliate and add a hint of color at the same time, use Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Glow Pads for Body. 

Choosing the right sunless tanner, whether it’s a lotion, spray or towelette, makes adding a natural glow easy. Most self-tanners contain DHA, an ingredient that darkens the color of skin, usually between two and six hours after application. Always wait a few hours after your first application of a self-tanner to see how much it will darken your skin. 

A great option for a first-time user is jane iredale Tantasia Self Tanner & Bronzer. The moisturizing formula is ideal for creating a natural glow on the body and the face and you can easily build the color.

Many people avoid self-tanning because it can be difficult to apply a sunless tanner without leaving streaks. An applicator such as Xen-Tan Deluxe Mitt can make all the difference. This soft, velour mitt creates a smooth application and can be used with a sunless tanning spray, lotion or mousse. 

To add a hint of color to the face without overdoing it, mix a few drops of a tanning lotion with your regular moisturizer and build the color until you reach the desired shade. If you make a mistake, immediately exfoliate the area and apply an alcohol-based toner to remove some of the pigment. 

Do you have any self-tanning tips? Share with us in the comments!