It's important to exfoliate skin before applying self-tanner in order to remove old skin cells from the surface, says Locke. This allows the skin to soak up the self-tanner evenly and help the tan to fade more evenly.

Locke suggests using a scrub made specifically for use before self-tanning, like Vita Liberata Super Fine Skin Polish, $20, which won't contain oils that will prevent your skin from absorbing the tanning product. Make sure to give an extra scrub to your knees, feet and elbows, which are the most skin-dense and tend to absorb more color.

Unless you don't mind being hairy for a few days, shave immediately before applying self-tanner. The reason: Shaving your body in the day or two after applying self-tanner can strip away the color. If you wax, make sure to do so at least 48 hours before applying self-tanner to avoid skin irritation.

To make sure your tan is even, Locke says it's important to make sure the skin is hydrated. Make sure the driest parts of your body -- typically your feet, ankles, knees, hands, wrists and elbows -- are properly moisturized by applying a light layer of lotion so they aren't over-absorbing product.

Now that you are exfoliated, shaved and moisturized, it's time to get tan. Always apply your tanner in a cool, dry place in front of a full-length mirror (i.e. don't apply it in your steamy bathroom after a shower). Regardless of what method type of self-tanner you've chosen, invest in a reusable tanning mitt like the St. Tropez Tan Applicator Mitt, $6.50 to avoid orange palms.

Whether you're applying a mousse like the St. Tropez Self Tan Bronzing Mousse, $42, or a gradual self-tanning lotion like Jergens Natural Daily Glow Moisturizer, $11.99, your application process is the same. Starting at your feet, and working your way up your legs in long, even strokes, smooth a generous amount of product over the skin. Locke insists you avoid aggressively rubbing product into the skin, as this tends to make your tan uneven. She also says not to worry if you go over the same area more than once, as it's the areas that get missed that create a streaky look.

If you're applying a spray formula like Karora Cosmetics Tinted Self Tan Mist, $30, make sure to first protect light colored eyebrows and hairlines with moisturizer or Vaseline, $3.69. Spray onto your mitt as directed and gently rub into skin. For hard-to-reach places like your back, spray the air directly behind you in a circular motion and immediately walk backwards into the mist.

You have a couple of options for self-tanning your face, says Locke. You can simply mix a bit of body self-tanning lotion into your regular face moisturizer for an even glow, or you use a tanner made for your face like Sephora Gradual Self-Tanning Face Water, $16.

Always apply tanner to clean skin and use small circular motions to evenly distribute product, says Locke. Avoid slathering it on in one big layer and instead start on the apples of the cheeks, and blending up toward the outer corner of your eyes. Next blend it onto your forehead, nose and chin. Take your time and be very thorough, as any spots you miss will make your skin tone look uneven.