Last year Models Direct were shocked to read a warning from Cancer Research UK’s head of policy, Sarah Woolnough as far back as 2010, that “first using a sunbed under the age of 35 increases the risk of developing skin cancer by 75 per cent.”

At that time Cancer Research UK also reported that as many as 20 per cent of people aged between 11 and 17 in England have already used a sunbed, terrifying figures.

We hoped that the message would have reached people by now that sunbed use is never safe but we notice that they are still being used up and down the counrty. This is completely unnecessary with so many great fake tan products on the market, so we thought some Models Direct tips on how to achieve a fab fake tan may be helpful.

Self-tanning products are available as sprays, creams, mousses and even wipes, and there are some very natural varieties out there. We still love St. Tropez and have added James Read liquid tan to our faves – but for a more affordable option Garnier no streaks self-tanning mousse, £9.33 is also fantastic.

Choose the product that suits you best, but we would definitely recommend a tinted tanner like these, as they help you to achieve an even finish. When you have decided on the best product for you, try following these Models Direct guidelines:

Exfoliate

Before using any fake tanning product it’s important to exfoliate. Models Direct recommends exfoliating gloves for this to make it super-easy.

Bathe or shower and apply your favourite shower gel to the sponge or gloves before gently but thoroughly sloughing away any dead skin from your entire body. Start at your feet and work your way up, always towards the heart. Pay particular attention to any dry skin patches such as the knees or ankles. The great news is that this process alone will greatly improve the appearance of your skin, with or without the tan! Rinse suds off and moisturise.

Hydrate

Before applying your fake tanning product, moisturise! Focus on the knees, elbows, ankles and wrists, and any other areas where you may have dry skin. Avoid oily moisturisers as they will create a barrier between your skin and the tanning product. Let your moisturiser sink in and leave for 10-15 minutes before applying self-tanner.

Fake it

Use a tanning mitt to apply your product as it will give you even coverage and help to avoid ‘orange hand syndrome’. Again this is best done from the feet upwards, as quickly and smoothly as possible to prevent streaks developing. Don’t forget your neck!

Face

For the face use a tanning product designed specifically for this purpose and follow the directions carefully. Be sure to take care around the hairline and eyebrows. Rub these areas gently with a dry flannel after application to avoid product build-up.

Aftercare

When you have finished applying your product to your body, give your hands a wash and use a dry flannel to remove any excess from the knee, armpit and elbow areas, or any other places where you feel it may be required. When you are happy that your tan is even, let it sink into your skin for as long as possible before getting into some loose, dark coloured clothing. Leave your tan to develop for at least 8 hours before bathing or showering. It is best to have quick showers for the next few days, rather than long baths, to prolong the life of your tan, and apply moisturiser regularly to keep it locked in. Now you can either top up regularly with a more gradual ‘everyday’ tanning moisturiser, or after about a week you can remove it following a good soak in the bath, using your exfoliating glove or sponge.

Final note

Please do not forget to use a sun block – fake tanning products rarely contain them.