How to Apply Fake Tan

Fake, false or "sunless" tanners have been increasingly popular over the last few years as people have begun to really realise the dangers of the sun.

When applied properly, they can look glamorous and natural, when not applied properly they can look streaky, orange and unnatural.

Below is a guide to help you get the most natural looking, streak proof tan.

1. The day before you apply the tan, exfoliate well. Use a small grained exfoliator and apply in small circles. Rinse thoroughly.

2. On the day, apply your moisturiser as you normally would, but allow at least 2 hours between applying moisturiser and fake tan.

3. Wait at least an hour after showering or bathing, you skin will be too damp and warm and result in uneven application.

4. Make sure you skin is completely dry.

5. If you are using a liquid tanner, put your gloves on! Make sure they are tight and that there are no wrinkles or gaps.

6.Stand on an old towel to avoid any drips staining the carpet or tiles.

7. Put a small amount of tanner into the palms of your hands and warm it by rubbing your hands together.

8. Apply in long smooth even strokes, blending in small circular motions where necessary.

9. Don't forget your feet, these are a real giveaway of fake tan as are the back of your hands, gently wipe your hands across each of your elbows and knees, this will help to remove any excess from the elbows and knees and tan your hands at the same time, rub the back of your hands and fingers together so that they are evenly covered.

10. Wait at least two hours before bathing or swimming, allow the tan time to settle, even if it is a quick drying one, you still need to give it a while.

11. If you are using a spray on tan, I would recommend laying towels all over the floor and standing in the middle of the room.

12. Spray at a distance of about 20cm from your skin, 30 cm for the face, leave to dry.

Colour choice:

When choosing a fake tan, always go with the one closest to your skin tone. It looks far more natural to have two coats of lighter tan than one coat of dark tan.