Body Contouring 101

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You may not want to contour your abs, legs, and arms. "For certain areas -- like the triceps -- you need to have some definition to begin with," explains sunless-tanning expert Judy Lee. If you have a fuller figure, she suggests sticking with the sides of the thighs and the bottom of the stomach. (Keep clicking for how-to tips for each area.)

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Whatever you do, don't draw on a 6-pack and expect it to look natural. "You want to do the bottom of the tummy, stopping at the belly button," says Vezirian. "Your stomach will look flatter and more defined." However, the sides of the abs should be left to a professional -- or an extremely advanced self-tanner -- because it's difficult to do right.

To create the contour, simply layer on more self-tanner or apply body bronzer.

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Legs are the easiest body part to contour because you have a good amount of surface area to work with. Contouring the thighs is also great because it can disguise cellulite and stretch marks.

"Start with the sides of the thighs -- the area you see in the mirror when you turn to the side," says Lee. "And apply self-tanner in long, even strokes."

You may also want to apply self-tanner where your butt meats your legs, blending downward. "This creates a shadow to make the behind look more lifted," says Vezirian.

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Arm contouring is subtle, but it can definitely help define the muscle you have. "Use your fingers to draw the self-tanner right on the line of the muscle," says Vezirian. She suggests contouring the tops of the collar bones and decolletage, as well.

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Self-tanner vs. powder bronzer vs. body oil

Self-tanner is the most challenging -- and also the most permanent -- contouring product you can use. If you're a first timer, matte powder bronzer is a safer bet. It's easily blendable, and it washes right off.

"If you want to contour with bronzer, use a big brush. Start by powdering the sides of the legs," says Vezirian. Just don't put powder anywhere that's prone to sweating, like the backs of the legs or middle of the chest -- you'll end up with a streaky mess.

If you're looking for a totally foolproof option, try bronze body oil -- simply apply it all over for a glowing effect. While it's not exactly contouring, the oil reflects light and works in a similar way.

If the term "body contouring" makes you think of muscly body builders and crop-top-wearing pop singers, your mind is about to be blown.

Every time you get a good professional spray tan, they do some subtle contouring -- whether you realize it or not. That's because contouring takes a fake tan from flat to natural looking and makes your legs look half the size.

How exactly? It's all about optical illusions. "You don't want to look like you're contoured, just faint definition, " says Tamar Vezirian, owner of Gotham Glow in New York City. "It should be faded out so you almost can't see it -- you'll just seem more toned than usual."

Excited to try it? Read on for body contouring tips so you can get started today.

Body Contouring 101

Toned abs and slim thighs without a gym membership? Yep, it's possible. Grab a bottle of self-tanner and we'll explain

Target your key contouring spots

For your abs

For your legs

For your arms

Self-tanner vs. powder bronzer vs. body oil

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Body Contouring 101

Toned abs and slim thighs without a gym membership? Yep, it's possible. Grab a bottle of self-tanner and we'll explain

Target your key contouring spots

For your abs

For your legs

For your arms

Self-tanner vs. powder bronzer vs. body oil

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