7 Steps to the Perfect Tan

It isn't advisable to tan in the sun, but if you're going to sunbathe and want the perfect tan: follow these easy steps to get even, long lasting color.

Step one: Start in the shower. Exfoliate evenly. It will prepare your skin for about two weeks of color. The top layers of our skin naturally regenerate every two weeks, so expect your color to last that long if you take care of it.

I recommend a salt or sugar based scrub because their granules are round and will not cut your skin. Some scrubs use jagged shell particles that might cause irritation. Also try loofahs or body puffs, they're gentle enough to use on a daily basis and get the job done.

Step two: Use a sunscreen lotion as a base moisturizer. If you apply it immediately after getting out of the shower, you will notice that it absorbs quickly. It actually penetrates deep enough that it will last through your first application of sun tan lotion and will slow release the sunscreen through your pores while you sweat.

Step three: To keep your skin mointurized, use tanning oils like Banana Boat instead of tan lotion. Tanning oils are usually made of very few non-toxic and from the earth ingredients.

Step four: Switch sides as soon as your skin feels hot. That is your body telling you that it can't cool itself down. You might be burning at that point. Switch sides!

Step five: Don't shower until about two hours after lying out. Cooling your body immediately stops the tanning process.

Step six: Take a warm/cold shower. Then apply moisturizer. I recommend aloe based lotions. Aloe cools the skin and helps heal irritation and burns. Most importantly, it let's your skin breathe.

Aloe gel is also an option, and it's a multi-purpose product. I like to have this around, just in case it's needed for sun burn relief.

Step seven: Moisturize twice a day, once immediately after showering and again after your skin has dried. I recommend this because the steam from showers opens your pores - creating the perfect environment for absorption.

It's the best time to apply moisturizer and sunscreen.

Repeat step seven religiously and your tan will last much longer.