We get it: everyone feels thinner -- and maybe even prettier -- with a tan. And that's especially true this time of year when you'll inevitably be wearing a swimsuit in public at some point.

Still, under no circumstances do we advise tanning of the sun or bed variety (we're firmly in camp SPF). And that's where self-tanners come in. Even if you had a tanning mishap in the past, we promise it will be a whole new experience this time around: The formulas have come a long way in recent years.

While most new self-tanners won't leave you orange (phew), every self-tanner will leave you streaky if you apply it wrong. Follow these eight expert tips, and you're guaranteed a beautiful, even, tawny tan that will make you feel amazing.

You've probably heard how important it is to exfoliate before you apply self-tanner, but it's also key to use the right kind of exfoliator. "Don't use a salt or sugar scrub," says Tamar Vezirian, owner of Gotham Glow in New York City. "They contain oils that leave a barrier on your skin, and the self-tanner won't adhere." Instead, she suggests using a loofah and soap, paying special attention to your knees, elbows, and the middle of the chest.

Also, you should shave your legs before you self-tan, but not right before. Wait at least an hour or the self-tanner will settle in your hair follicles, leaving you with a freckled look.

It may seem counterintuitive, but Vezirian says a small amount of moisturizer will help self-tanner absorb evenly. The trick is to only apply it to dry patches, and let the moisturizer sink in well. "Moisturize at least a few hours before you self-tan," she says. "Your skin should be completely dry when you start."

Foams, lotions, creams, sprays, gels, towelettes -- there are a ton of different self-tanner formulas to choose from. Vezirian likes foams and mousses because they're easy to distribute, and she recommends using a spray if you're going to tan your back.

Always choose a tinted formula. "There needs to be a color guide so you can see where you're applying it," she says. And pick a color that's close to your natural skin tone. "If you're fair, use a light self-tanner -- you can always layer on more if the first application isn't dark enough for you."

Other than that, it's trial and error to find the perfect one. "Everyone's pH is different, so different products will produce different results depending on the individual," says Vezirian.

First, stand in front of a mirror so you can see what you're doing. Vezirian suggests wearing tight-fitting latex gloves when you apply self-tanner. "You want them to be tight so you can feel the self-tanner under your fingers," she says. "I like surgical gloves in an extra-small size."