Sun worshipers that cannot afford to be on a permanent vacation can now use tanning booths whenever they wish to maintain that golden brown look. However, with more and more research coming out on the dangers and the risk of skin cancer, some are now turning to alternatives to the dangerous skin damaging practice. One of these newer methods is called sunless tanning which can be carried out at specialist salons or at regular beauty establishments. Although there are many other methods, spraying seems to provide the most even and consistent tan available at the moment.

There are now home spray tanning systems available but these may not be the easiest to use on your own although regular users they could save money in time. The methods of artificially creating this effect may differ but a guide to getting a good finish works with them all. First off, you should exfoliate your skin to remove any dead skin. This can stop the situation where dead skin cells gradually drop off leaving paler patches of skin which immediately tells people you have a fake tan.

Once this process is complete, it is advisable to prepare your skin further by applying a moisturizing cream (or lotion) to it which will make the agent easier to apply. Always, always, always wear disposable surgical gloves when applying a self tanning cream etc. To avoid any other application mistakes that could give away the fact that the tan is not real, make sure those fingers, feet, elbows and knees are only given the lightest of coats as they have a habit of coming out darker. If you are using a spray tanning method then you will need an old towel to wipe any excess fluid away to stop streaking.

Once the tanning agent (whatever type you have used) has been applied you will need to have somewhere to relax and not move while the coating dries or small smear marks might occur.

Consider what you are going to wear once you have applied the fake tan as it tends to stain objects, in particular clothing. You should choose something dark and also maybe something you don't particularly care for until the excess is worn off. Applying an artificial tan successfully means there are a few rules to follow which should ensure it looks as genuine as possible.