Summer's here and it's time to bare some skin.
But if you haven't had chance to top up your tan yet then fake it til you make it with these top tips.
1. Pick the right tan
Finding the perfect shade of fake tan is a bit of trial and error unfortunately and you may need to try a few before you find your perfect match.
If you are a beginner then there are some wash-on wash-off products on the market which are good for practising, or try a gradual tan product which builds up over several days so is more forgiving of mistakes.
2. Preparation is key
Keeping your skin in good condition will help your cause when it comes to hitting the fake tan bottle.
Try to moisturise every day and pay particular attention to wrists, ankles knees and feet and any other areas which can get dry and may need extra attention.
3. Scrub the skin
Exfoliating properly is key to remove dead skin cells and reveal soft, smooth, ready-to-tan skin beneath.
Applying fake tan to dry uneven skin will result in a patchy tan which just isn't a good look.
For best results exfoliate the day before you tan rather than immediately before you apply it.
4. Location, location, location
Most people apply their fake tan in the bathroom, but that isn't necessarily the best spot.
Ideally find a bright room with a full length mirror. if you can see exactly what you're doing then you're less likely to make mistakes.
5. Equip yourself
Make sure you have everything you need before you start.
If you apply with bare hands then you'll end up with orange palms so invest in some latex gloves, then put a mitt on top to ensure a streak-free finish and get a back brush for those hard to reach places.
6. Work upwards
To avoid smudging the bits you've already done start at your feet and work upwards, finishing with your arms.
Don't forget to get in between your toes, round the back of your ankles and under the armpits.
7. Don't forget your hands.
After you've tanned your entire body take off the mitt and gloves and apply lots of moisturiser to your hands and wrists.
Dot some fake tan on the back of one hand and rub tha backs of your hands together from your fingers to your wrists.
8. Let it dry
Give your tan time to dry. Most bottles will advise how long it will take, and mousses tend to be quicker than creams or lotions.
If it's still tacky then use a hairdryer on a cool setting to blast your body.
If you haven't got time to let it completely dry before you go out then wear loose fitting dark clothing and try not to get wet or sweat for at least six hours.
9. Your face should be a slightly lighter than the rest of your body, and choose a product specifically designed for the face.
Open pores and blemishes can be emphasised by fake tan but running an ice cube over your face before application will seal and close pores and a dab of moisturiser over the blemishes will prevent build up.
10. Aftercare
Aftercare is just as important as preparation.
Daily moisturising will prolong the colour and exfoliating every 3 to 4 days will ensure it fades evenly.
Don't apply self-tan more than twice a week, but if you need a quick pick-me-up then add a teaspoon of self tan to your daily moisturiser.
