Top Tanning Disasters, Fixed

Self tanners can make or break your spring look. The key is discreet application -- like you've been beaching it in Tulum versus boothing it at Mystic Tan. But the tiniest mistake (Exhibit A: Amanda Bynes' mismatched face, arms and orange legs, spotted by prudent Tan Gazers at Perez Hilton's March 28th birthday bash), will totally bust your cover. Flip through the following pages for solutions to the most common self tanner disasters.

- Melissa Goldberg

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Problem: My feet, knees and elbows are discolored

The Fix: Hydrate first

To avoid the dreaded "Orange Foot" spotted here on Victoria Beckham, take the necessary precautions - before applying self-tanner, massage moisturizer onto rough areas (like the knees, elbows and the feet and hands) and wipe off excess with a towel. The layer of hydration will prevent skin from absorbing too much tanner and looking dark.


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Problem: My face is way too dark

The Fix: A bronzer instead of self-tanner

Your face should be lighter than your body, or else you risk looking unnatural and even older. Bronzing powders or tanners made just for the face will give you a subtle, youthful glow.


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Problem: I can't reach my back

The Fix: Spray it on

Self-tanners in a spray form are ideal for hard-to-reach spots. As you get more practice, use sprays to shape thighs and stomach by concentrating color on problem areas.


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Problem: Orange hands

The Fix: Laundry detergent

Mix a teaspoon of detergent granules with water to make a paste. Gently scrub palms and between fingers to erase color. To prevent future mishaps, wear latex gloves to apply self-tanner.


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Problem: Splotchy Color

The Fix: Try mousse instead of lotion

Beginners will have more success with a mousse texture that glides on more evenly and is less prone to streaking.


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Problem: I'm terrified of self-tanners

The Fix: Go slow

Build color slowly with new body moisturizers that you can use everyday. Apply to dry skin after showering in the AM, and see a touch of color by evening. Bonus: they're practically mistake proof.


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Problem: I'm have darker skin, but I want a glow

The Fix: Go for shimmer

Use a spray or lotion with golden light-reflecting particles on legs and shoulders to add a radiant sexy glow to deeper skin tones.


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Problem: My clothes are stained

The Fix: Plan to tan

If you want to show off sun-kissed skin in white clothes, apply product a day before you dress. A gentle shower after your tan emerges will get rid of extra color that may rub off. Also, most stains will come out in the wash.

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Problem: My tanner makes me itch

The Fix: Rethink tanning

If you have sensitive skin, test any product in a small area to see if skin reacts before committing to color. Porcelain skin is beautiful too, and your health is not worth the risk of a fake bake.


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