With winter just around the corner, it's about that time, your summer tan is fading. If you love a bronzed look, then it's the norm to start tanning in a tanning bed.

Don't.

I know you've heard it a million times but I'm going to say it again; the risk for your skin and health is not worth the UV lights. Take care of your skin! I love looking tan just as much as the next girl, so to save my skin, I started self tanning. Self tan can sound really intimating, but through my fails I've learned some tricks to getting that beautiful bronzed glow without the damage.

First things first, finding a good self tan lotion. I personally LOVE BareMinerals Faux Tan Body. It has a nice olive tone, you can see where you're going and you'll know if you missed any spots! The olive tone keeps it from turning orange. The tan lasts about two weeks, the bottle will last about two months.

I also recommend St. Tropez Self Tan Classic Bronzing Mousse. St. Tropez also has gradual tan lotion, meaning you put it on everyday and in the next few weeks you'll get the tan. I like the more instant tans, mostly because I'm impatient.

If you're ballin' on a budget, I recommend Jergens Instant Sun Tanning Mousse! You can find it at any drugstore.

The application process is fairly simple.

1. EXFOILIATE

In the shower exfoliate your entire body, including your neck and face. Tree Hut is a good brand for body scrubs! Exfoliating helps smooth your skin for an even application. If you do not scrub your skin, the self tan will stick to dry skin patches.

2. Dry off

Make sure you are completely dry.

3. Apply

Using a tanning mit like Vita Liberata's, or I like to use an old clean sock, apply the lotion in quarter sized amounts all over. When you apply make sure to go fairly fast and scrub on your elbows, knuckles, wrists, and knees. Take the mit off and wash your hands. Then using a small beauty sponge, or a cotton ball. You can apply the lotion to your hands. Making sure to get in the webs of your fingers really well.

After a few minutes, you can put clothes on! It will take roughly four hours to show up completely. A little shows immediately. This bronzed tan will last about two weeks. If the tan isn't dark enough for you, re-apply!

This is such a good option for your skin, UV rays are harsh and can have lifelong damage. Also remember, practice makes perfect. The first few times might not be the best looking, but once the tan fades you can try again!