getting a tan from a can in the dead of winter

Like most people, I think I look better with a tan. Not your crazy, obvious, too-dark, "I've-been-vacationing-in-Miami-for-the-past-2-weeks" sort of tan, but more like a healthy glow. That said, a healthy glow is not something I have naturally (case-in-point: see bangs picture below).

Therefore, I must rely on a slew of tanners and bronzing products to help achieve my desirable color. The questions I get asked a lot are, how do I choose the right one and how the heck do you put it on? I won't lie - it's tricky for first-timers and it's even trickier in the winter when you're white as paper (less room for error). Here are some top tips to guide you to a gorgeous glow:

1. If you're extra pale, don't have expectations of looking like Eva Mendes. It a) won't look natural, b) you may need an entire bottle of self tanner and major skills, and c) probably won't work in the first place. My personal wintertime goal is to not look like I'm Casper's first cousin and quite frankly I think that's reasonable.

2. Gradual tanners are THE way to go, especially in February when your skin hasn't seen ample sunlight for 6 months. I haven't used a regular self-tanner in years. These formulas are not buildable. This means that if you apply at night, you might as well write a note your forehead the next morning that says "HI, I SELF-TANNED IN MY BATHROOM". Streaks and screw-ups are more obvious with full-on self tanners.

3. My all-time favorite gradual self tanners are Victoria's Secret Bare Bronze Gleaming Self-Tan Body Tint and Dove Energy Glow. They smell the best, last the longest, and give the most convincing sunkissed look. I mix equal parts of each in my palm, then apply it in circular motions to my whole body. If I want to be tan for the weekend, I start tanning on Tuesday night. By Friday, my skin tone is perfection :)

4. Use face formula when self-tanning your face and neck. They are less greasy than tanners for the body and produce the most natural color (definitely a plus, since your face is something you can't hide if you mess it up). Jergens Natural Glow for Face is the one that I use. It's cheap and doesn't cause breakouts.

5. Self tan at least one hour before bed and sleep in very loose clothing (or, uh, none at all). You might feel a little sticky when you lie down, but trust me - you aren't messing up your efforts.

6. In the winter, I only self-tan parts of my body that people see -face, arms, hands, chest (my secret's out) Saves a ton of product and a lot of time.

7. Maintain your pretty tan by keeping your skin hydrated (apply lotion after every shower) and using bar soap rather than scrubbing your skin with a loofah or washcloth. Vigorous scrubbing exfoliates the skin and will fade a tan in half the time, obviously.

I know everyone has their own personal methods to their self tanning madness but these are mine. Whether you're a clueless tanner virgin or a seasoned pro, it always helps to have new tips (I like hearing new ones too, so let me know what yours are...)

xoxo