Bronzed Babe

As the summer months near, our minds and our bodies go into preparation mode, tacking on more time at the gym to our already busy schedules, searching for the perfect swim suit, and trying to achieve that "just returned from the beach" look before we've even got there.

Unfortunately those days under the sun are still some ways away, but that bronzed sheen can still be achieved. Fake tans can look, well, fake, but when armed with the proper tools and a few tricks of the trade, a sun-kissed, natural looking glow can be yours.

Take the time to invest in a good product. Tinted ones that show you where you have applied are helpful. In the shower, make sure to exfoliate, specifically concentrating on dry areas like knees and elbows that usually can create an uneven surface when ignored. When applying the tan to these spots, make sure to use the tanning lotion or spray sparingly.

Everywhere else can be applied generously, but if you are still cautious about an uneven result, try mixing the tanning product 50/50 with your body lotion for a more subtle and easily-managed look. For a sun-kissed face or neck, it is usually best to find a product that is specifically made for these sensitive, and very visible areas.

Most of these products can stain your hands or clothes, so be sure to use latex gloves and protect what you're wearing or nearby surfaces such as furniture or carpet. Allow enough time for your skin to dry, usually about 10 minutes before redressing.

To avoid fake tan disasters and leave your bed sheets spotless, try Tan A Sac, a cotton bed bag that can easily be placed over your existing bed linen. It is designed specifically to keep from moving through the night and includes a separate piece to protect your pillow as well from both the colour and smell of the fake tan product.

Because the fake tan can usually take hours to fully develop, Tan A Sac works with your body's natural heat to accelerate the process.

Although anyone can spot an orange-looking, fake tan from miles away, the alternative is much more grim.