Fake a Perfect Tan This Summer

	What Not to Do

Do you want to have perfectly bronzed skin without the harmful effects of the sun? I know I would, but I am all too aware of the risks carried by UV rays.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, there are more than one million cases of skin cancer diagnosed every year in the U.S., and one's level of sun exposure is the most preventable risk factor for the disease.

Artificial methods such as tanning beds and sunlamps are just as dangerous, due to their UV-ray emission. There is one safe way, though -- faking a sun-kissed glow with self-tanning creams, sprays or wipes.

There are several different ways to apply these products. If you're the type who enjoys the pampering experience, I would recommend looking at your local spa for self-tanning treatment options. But if you just want a quick dose of color, go to a department or beauty store and select from an array of products from such brands as Estee Lauder (EL Quote), Clinique, Neutrogena and Clarins (about $15-$40).

Do It Yourself

Even though self-tanning products are designed for easy, at-home application, the process does require a bit of practice. Lise Jorgensen, vice president of global skincare product development at Estee Lauder recommends the following steps for an even, desirable result:

• Exfoliate beforehand: Smooth skin helps the color develop more evenly and last longer.
• Apply evenly, concentrating on one area at a time. Go lightly on areas where color can develop darker, such as elbows, knees and ankles.
• Blend thoroughly using small circular motions.
• Immediately wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Allow body formulas to dry completely before dressing.

Always take your time when applying the self tanners. "Use an even coating on the shoulders, arms and legs," says Kaheem Todmann, a skincare specialist at Clarins. And beware of products that are excessively thick. "[They] can make the skin appear muddy or dirty," says Todmann.

So how do self-tanning products work? Most contain a chemical called dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which reacts with the amino acids found in certain proteins in our skin. "The reaction forms a colored complex which gives the skin a tanned appearance," explains Jorgensen. DHA has been approved as a safe cosmetic ingredient by the Food and Drug Administration for decades.