Published: June 01. 2010 2:00AM

By Stephanie Morgan
CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Thinking about getting a radiant tan this summer? Better think again, because by now we all know it just isn't healthy. Granted, finding a better way to bring on a glow and appease your dermatologist at the same time is a bit tricky, but with some effort it can be done, and without the addition of one single wrinkle.

In the past self-tanner may have meant streaky orange yuck, but these days it doesn't have to be so. Self-tanning products have come far in the last 30 years and today offer easy application with less odor and long-lasting effects.

Shed first

It is crucial to exfoliate the area of your body you are planning to tan before you apply, rub, puff, spray or coat. Exfoliation will help remove skin that would otherwise cause irregular color patterns and affect how the tan fades. Without proper cleansing, you won't get thorough coverage, and the color will fade in blotches over time rather than fade naturally.

Tan smart

Over-the-counter options are plentiful and not a bad place to start. The trick is finding the right tone for your skin color. Spend some time choosing the right shade for your face. Most appealing about these moisturizers, powders and foundations is that they are easy to apply and can be used every day of the year by simply following the easy-to-read directions. My friends tell me that they love Jergens Natural Glow moisturizer: easy to apply, with little odor, and wears like a favorite coverup. The only drawback — there is no SPF in this moisturizer.

Clarins Self-Tanning Instant Gel is the obvious favorite in the more pricey category. This is a non-oily gel that can be on the face and body. It absorbs quickly, with little wait time for drying, and shows quick results (in two hours). Available at local department stores, this product receives extremely high rankings from thousands of online reviewers. It goes on very smoothly, can be used daily and the odor is minimal.

Keli Miller of Solar Tan has options for tans that can last a little longer. She suggests spray tans for a look that lasts and provides more coverage than topical creams and gels. “We use California Tan spray tan that can provide a streak-free beautiful tan in under four minutes,” Miller says proudly. She ensures a sun-kissed tan all over or simply on your face, limbs or back to last seven days. With over 10 years of experience, she has seen the development of beautiful products that are finally less orange and the perfect shade of sienna.

So put on the sandals and bare those legs — we can finally enjoy the look of a tan without any of the risk.