How to Fake a Summer Tan

While worshiping the summer sun used to be an annual ritual for those in search of beautiful golden bodies, the dangers inherent in tanning are now so well-documented that the health conscious now seek other avenues to avoid the "pale." Faking a summer tan is becoming an art, as well as science. Here's how to do it.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Decide whether to tan at a salon or to try do-it-yourself tanning lotions. Tanning salons/spas are extremely popular, though often pricey. Many offer the choice of using a bed or having your body and face spray tanned. If you prefer a less expensive and more private option, consider a good self-tanning product.
2. Research your particular choice. When considering a salon, find out how long it has been in business and ask for client recommendations with before and after pictures. When picking a lotion, check out user reviews.
3. Read carefully. In a salon, pay particular attention to disclaimers. With a lotion, read all the accompanying information, not just the directions for use.
4. Choose how dark a tone you desire and how quickly you want it. A salon expert should be able to counsel you on degree and pace for your tan. When doing it yourself, check product labels, as some will tan more darkly than others and will have directions on how often to apply for a "fast bake" or more gradual darkening.
5. Prepare your body for fake tanning. GENTLY exfoliate your skin, including your face, and use a good moisturizer afterwards. If you shave any areas, do so the day before tanning, but be careful not to nick your skin.
6. Follow all directives when you begin the process. When using the tanning bed, getting ready for spraying or when beginning to apply lotion yourself, follow all directions implicitly and do not ignore any warnings.
7. Maintain your fake but gorgeous summer tan by visiting the salon at recommended intervals or following your lotion's instructions on when and how often to reapply (many manufacturers will have an 800 number to call with questions/concerns).
8. Moisturize daily, morning and evening, to avoid the drying a fake tan can cause. This will also help keep your skin looking natural and supple. In most cases, this will not decrease the life of your tan.

Tips & Warnings

• Take your time when applying tanning lotion, making sure to apply it evenly over your body, as this will give you the most even results.
• Go easy when applying product to these areas: palms, wrists, ankles, elbows and knees.
• Remember that although choosing an expensive salon or product does not guarantee great results, most often you get what you pay for so you may not want to go too economical.
• When using a tan product, be sure to test a small area of your skin first before applying all over.