Nothing is more forgiving than a tan.  We all know that.  

So… being the vain and strategic woman I am, I have dedicated many hours to finding…

the perfect self tanner.

Here’s my criteria for self tanners: (1) they cannot smell, (2) they must give a natural looking color, (3) there must be an even application method, (4) and the drying time must be reasonable.

Tan Towels have been the consistent winner.  I even tried their lotion, and I think the towels are the best shot for a good even application.

Here are my tips:

—Exfoliate.  One of my favorite methods is to use Epsom scrubbing salts mixed with lotion.  Rub all over and then sit in the tub for 20 minutes.  If you don’t have time to sit in the tub…rub and rinse in the shower.  (*And if you don’t have time to exfoliate, tan towels will still look good.  But give yourself a treat sometime this week and hang out in that bathtub for a bit!)

—Do your feet last — careful on the sides and around your ankle bone.  As soon as you are done with the application to your feet, apply a little bit of moisturizer from your ankles on down so it looks more natural.

—Scrub your hands and nails with a scrubbing brush as soon as you have finished applying.

—Let it dry for about 10 minutes before getting dressed.  This will allow you to keep from ruining your clothes.  And even a bit winds up on your clothes, it’s incredibly easy to wash – no need to use anything special to get it out of your clothes.

This is one of the few products that I am 100% in love with, and if I find a box, I will grab it. I buy mine at Nordstrom’s.

What are your tanning tricks?

-Rose