Not a fan of the crispy tan?

As I ready myself to hit the beaches of Cuba in 13 days (and yes, I am counting down), I realized I didn't want to bare all looking off-white and pale. I do, however, want to protect my skin instead of frying it here with my pre-tanning routine, as it will be under a great deal of sun when I am on vacation.

I listed out my options and figured you might want in on them, too:

Sunless tanner
The concept is to gradually colour your skin with a dihydroxyacetone, or in English, what is known as a DHA. DHA is a colorless sugar that interacts with the top layer of skin which are the dead cells and changes  the colour. This kind of a tan often lasts about a week or so as you shower and your skin renews itself. That is why most self tanners suggest reapplication every three days to maintain the look.
As with any tanning process, artificial or not, exfoliation is the key to an even tan.
And don't over do it if you don't see results immediately. It can take up to 48 hours for the colour to show up.

One to try:
Mary Kay Subtle tanning lotion - this can be used all over the body, including the face.

Spray tans
This is a great alternative to applying a sunless tanner yourself, and is offered at most tanning salons. The product is sprayed on by a machine, eliminating the need to smear the product in those hard to reach spots and colouring your palms. It takes about 1-2 minutes tops, and depending on the type of machine.
Down fall of this - the price. A single spray tan can cost anywhere from $25 up to $50 depending on the machine and product used.
If you do want to try this out, keep in mind that you should go in prepared to strip it all off, as any of your undergarments could become stained if the product touches them.

Bronzer
Don't underestimate what a light wash of strategically placed bronzer can do to make you look like you've been outside all day. This is the best, non-committal option, however, it really only applies to the face, neck and decollete at most. Use powder with no shimmer for a natural look on oilier skin and a liquid version for dryer skin.

Best placement of bronzer for the face? Try hitting the parts of the face that would naturally tan on a bright, sunny day:
- Apply to the temples and sweep towards the top of the cheek bones (kind of like a 'C' shape)
- Across the forehead
- A light brushing along the nose
- And don't forget to dab the chin

Great options:
Rimmel London Natural Bronzer Powder- available in 3 different shades, this is a top pick with everyday gals as well as makeup artists.

Sally Hansen Airbrush Legs Leg Makeup - billed as a weightless and transfer resistant formula, it contains Vitamin K to help small skin imperfections. This one is great, as it can be used on the face as well as a temporary colour for the legs for a great glow.

If you must venture outside to bake in the sun this summer, please please please, make sure you wear a sunscreen of 30 SPF or higher. Don't use last years bottle, as sunscreen can lose its protection value when it is old. Avoid burning by making sure you reapply and reapply often. I do promise, you'll end up with a tan, but this will ensure you don't end up with a burn.