Gel
Gels are perennially popular, since it's just like spreading on moisturizer (plus, they're usually tinted, so it's easy to see where you've applied). We love the sexy scent and shimmer in
Pout Ultimate Fake Tan ($22, sephora.com).
Spray
How to tan those hard-to-reach spots? Airbrush tanning -- which has been offered at spas for a while -- is finally available in an at-home version. Our pick:
Lancome Flash Bronzer Airbrush ($28, lancome-usa.com).
Subtle
Moisturizers spiked with a touch of self-tanner are the way to go if you want to build color slowly (it usually takes a few applications to notice a difference). Do it all with
Jergens Natural Glow Face Daily Moisturizer with SPF 20 ($6, drugstore.com).
Mousse
Sunless mousses and foams are getting more popular -- they're easy to spread quickly, so you don't need to worry about them absorbing into your skin before you have a chance to rub it in. We like
MysticTan Mystic Sunless Tanning Foam, Green Tea ($23, shopmystictan.com).
Goof-proof
Not sure how much tanner to use? Presoaked towelettes give you enough to do a rub-down all over -- no dripping, no streaking. Try
Estee Lauder Sun Performance Multiprotection Sun Towelettes for Body SPF 15 ($28, esteelauder.com).
-- Dena Smolek
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