Gradual self-tanners

These are the most foolproof options because they give gradual golden results that are specific to your starting-off point, leaving less room for embarrassing streaks and missed spots. To ensure you don't end up too bronzed too soon, stick to one coat at first. "Always wait a couple of hours to determine if you want to be darker before adding more product," says Marie-Claude Côté, national training director for Clarins.

Start your application from your toes up, using long, broad strokes to cover every part evenly. Apply a thin layer over your ankles, knees and elbows (these areas tend to be drier, so they soak up more product and can look darker). Do your stomach last - that way, you can avoid crease marks from bending when you're applying it to your lower body. If you can, ask a friend for help in hard-to-reach places like the middle of your back.

Pro tip accidentally glob on too much? Quickly remove excess with a damp cloth - otherwise, you'll have to wait days before it fades. You can try to exfoliate it off, but it won't make miracles happen.

JERGENS NATURAL GLOW FOAMING DAILY MOISTURIZER, $14
NEUTROGENA COLOUR BOOSTING SUNSCREEN SPF 30, $17
LIFE BRAND DAILY GLOW MOISTURIZING LOTION, $11
OLAY BODY QUENCH PLUS TOUCH OF SUN DAILY BODY LOTION, $11

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