We know sunbathing, tanning beds and even spray tanning can cause some serious skin issues, but does that mean we're doomed to be pale and pasty forever? Not a chance. There's still one safe way to get that golden glow, and it's in your makeup bag: bronzer.

The key to getting that perfect faux glow is not just having a great bronzer, it's knowing how to apply it as well. Since it's so easy to accidentally look like a muddy Oompa Loompa instead of Jessica Alba, we asked makeup artist Nick Barose for his best application tips, as well as his advice on picking the best bronzer for your skin tone.

The number one misconception about bronzers, according to Barose? People are misled by the name itself. "You should use a bronzer to look healthier and sun-kissed, not 'bronze,'" he says. For a believable tan, Barose says you shouldn't pick a color that is more than one shade darker than your natural skin color. And if you're fair skinned, he suggests looking for a sheer bronzer with peach tones. "Avoid reds or browns if you're fair, because those shades will make you look orange and dirty."

When applying bronzer, use a big, fluffy brush and tap off any excess product before swiping it on your face. He recommends that you concentrate most of the color at your temples and along the cheekbones. And without double dipping, lightly brush across your nose and chin. "Don't forget to apply and blend bronzer down your neck. And if your hair is up in a ponytail, you should also put a little around your ears," says Barose.

Now that you've got the know-how, all you need to do is find the best bronzer for you.

Image via Imaxtree