I blame the Oompa-Loompas for starting the orange skin craze. It’s mind boggling really, how can someone think they look great when their body suit resembles that of a fictional story character?

 Looking like you just came back from a beach vacation is great. Looking like you’re auditioning for Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is a major don’t.

If you can’t live without self-tanners then here are a few tips to help you avoid the dreadful orange streaks.

Before applying the product take time to exfoliate and moisturize your skin. This will help create an even surface. I recommend using Banana Boat’s VitaSkin Pre-Sunless Smoother Exfoliating Scrub; you can find it at your local Drugstore.

The day you plan to use the self-tanner, exfoliate the skin but skip the moisturizing to avoid interfering with the self-tanners absorption. Take your time to rub the product in completely, using a lotion with built-in tint works great and will minimize the risk of streaks. Clinique carries a few great options and won’t leave a dent in your wallet. Remember to wash your hands immediately afterwards in warm soapy water.

Worst case scenario… invest in prepackaged wipes that contain self-tanner to touch up missed areas and to blend in the stripes. Managed to look like you were burned in the sun by tanning too dark?  Don’t fret, just soak a cotton ball in hydrogen peroxide or lemon juice and wipe the entire area till you get your desired results.

Do get a healthy sunless looking tan.

Don’t forget orange is NOT a natural skin color.