The easiest way to apply tanning lotion is to start with your feet and legs, and make your way upward. Use long, smooth strokes and make sure to blend well. Take your time when applying self-tanning lotion — rushing through it will almost guarantee streaks.

It’s very easy to accidentally over-apply, so start with a small amount and then you can gradually build coverage from there. A tanning lotion that is colored, rather than clear, is helpful to see where you’re applying, so you don’t miss an area and create a streaky look.

Ones to try: Neutrogena Build-a-Tan Gradual Sunless Tanning Lotion, $10 or Fake Bake Sunless Self-Tanning Lotion, $29