How to apply the perfect fake tan

Get great self-tanning results

For your back

• 'Use a spray,' says A-list tanning expert James Read. Try L'Oréal Paris Sublime Bronze Express Pro Self-Tanning Dry Mist, £13.90. 'Aim it over each shoulder and lean forwards immediately so it doesn't run,' he suggests.

• 'Spray the lower half of your back from each side of your waist upwards - lie on your front while it dries.'

• 'For mousse fans, the best way to get even coverage is to smooth fake-tan onto clingfilm, then rub it across your back as if you were drying with a towel.'

L'Oreal Paris Sublime Bronze Express Pro Self-Tanning Dry Mist

For your hands

• 'Leave your hands until last,' says James. 'A sweep over the backs with leftover product is all they need. Clean your palms with a damp flannel or face wipe.' Try Johnson's 3in1 Facial Cleansing Wipes, £2.99.

Fake Bake Oil Free Moisturiser

For your knees

• 'If your knees end up looking much darker than everywhere else, avoid the grubby look by rubbing gently with a cleansing wipe that contains alcohol to "dissolve" fake tan,' advises James.

• Rehydrate the area with an oil-free lotion, like Fake Bake Oil Free Moisturiser, £12.50.

REN Moroccan Rose Otto Sugar Body Polish

For your legs

• Perfection depends on preparation - follow James's top three leg prep tips: 'Wax 48 hours before, shave 24 hours before, exfoliate 24 hours before.' Try REN Moroccan Rose Otto Sugar Body Polish, £30, which scuffs away flaky skin without leaving an oily residue that can cause fake tan to streak.