Secrets of a Sexy, Safe Tan

Simply Sun-Kissed

It has never been easier to get a natural-looking bronze. Gone are the notorious orange tint and unpleasant smell, replaced with advanced formulas that dry instantly, smell sweet, and create a faux tan so real-looking that nobody will know it came from a bottle. Here, a primer on achieving sun-kissed radiance.

The single most important step for a streak-free tan? "Exfoliation, exfoliation, exfoliation!" says Regina Viotto, spa director of New York City's Paul Labrecque Salon and Spa. To guarantee even coverage, use a scrub in the shower, followed by moisturizer to hydrate rough patches, which tend to sop up color. For goof-proof application, pick a tinted product, so you can see exactly where you've already put the tanner. Post-tanning, use a hand-wipe on palms to remove residue, advises Fiona Locke, senior sunless technician for California Tan, in Los Angeles. Finally, reapply at least once a week -- and to avoid streaks, always wait three hours before using a second coat. Happy bronzing!

1. L'Oreal Sublime Bronze Dual Action Instant Bronzer and Self-Tanning Lotion for Face, $9.99, mixes bronzer for immediate color with vitamin E-infused self-tanner for hydration.
2. Olay Quench Radiance Reviver, $6.99, blends a 24-hour moisturizer with a hint of self-tanner for understated color that becomes slightly more noticeable with each daily application.
3. Coppertone Endless Summer Sunless Tanning Bronzing Foam, $11, dries in just five minutes and contains Hydrosil to develop color in only 30 minutes. The bronzer provides an instant tint for easy application.
4. Comodynes Self-Tanning Towelettes, $14.99 for 8, are pre-moistened for easy use with just enough tanner in one towelette for face, neck, and decolletage; use one wipe for each arm and leg.