With Spring right around the corner, you may be longing for a hint of color on your winter white skin. Laying out in the sun can cause skin cancer and premature signs of aging and tanning beds aren't much better. But staying out of the sun and the tanning salon doesn't mean that you can't enjoy a healthy summer glow. There are a number of self tanners that can give you good color without the damage that ultra violet light can cause.

When getting ready to apply a self tanner, the most important thing to do is to remove all dead, dry winter skin. Take a warm shower with an exfoliating scrub. Make sure that you shave your legs as well. Dry, flaky skin will absorb more of the self tanning lotion, leaving your with unattractive dark streaks. To achieve a smooth application, you need your skin to be as smooth as possible.

Once your skin is smooth and free of peeling skin, apply a good body lotion. This will moisturize any area that is still somewhat dry. Allow at least five minutes for the lotion to sink into the skin. After you have applied your lotion, it is time to get serious about tanning.

A large part of the success of your self tanning session is the self tanner that you choose. Select a self tanner that has a color tint so you can see where you put it. Lotions and spray on tanners are both available that have instant color. A pair of plastic gloves will help you prevent the orange hand syndrome that is common when someone self tans.

Apply the lotion or spray in a thin layer, using your gloved hands to spread the self tanner evenly over all exposed skin surfaces. Use self tanner sparingly over your knees, elbows and ankles. These areas are very dry and will absorb a lot of tanner. They will turn very dark if excess tanner is applied.

Allow your self tanner to dry thoroughly before before putting your clothes on. Resist the temptation to apply a heavy coat in an attempt to get darker faster. Thin layers that allow a gradual build up of color look more natural, and if your see signs of uneven color or streaking, it is easier to exfoliate and correct any mistakes before they get out of hand.