By By Kaitlin Andorfer

Let’s face it, a true fashion diva appreciates a good tan and they probably have their name or picture in the system at Beach Bum or another tanning salon.

Tanning became a modern phenomenon thanks to French designer Coco Chanel, who decreed it a “fashion look” in the 1920s. Today a tan has become as much a part of an outfit as a handbag or a great pair of shoes. For many people, fitting tanning into their daily schedule is as important as eating or going to class. A trip to Beach Bum is as much of a social event as Happy Hour at McHebes. The Sunday night free tanning upgrade is practically a requirement for graduation and more crowded than the Dashboard Concert at Adams Playhouse.

If you’re like me however, paying $150 a month for a super deluxe straight-out-of-Brazil bronze isn’t a priority expenditure, not to mention the health risks of tanning are petrifying. Fortunately, there are many available, inexpensive and safe self-tanning products on the market to keep you from looking pasty white this summer, when tans are flaunted in full swing.

One reason to turn to this season’s most coveted bottle of bronzer is the evidence that tanning beds are associated with skin cancer. By increasing exposure to carcinogenic UV rays, the risk of skin cancer is increased. Self-tanners are the safest and easiest way to achieve a tan and are the best alternative for those who burn easily. Some believe, however, moderate use of tanning salons poses no real harm.

“Moderate tanning has never been linked scientifically to skin cancer,” according to an article in Tanning Trends Magazine. “In fact, by helping people tan with a reduced incidence of sunburn, indoor tanning may reduce your risk of ever contracting skin cancer.”

There are several things to consider when choosing the perfect self-tanner. You may want to try several tanners to see which works the best with your skin coloring. The higher quality self tanning products in the form of gel, cream or spray, are made with the same active ingredient, which stimulates pigment in the skin rather than dying it. Opt for a product that is hypoallergenic and also acts as a moisturizer. These products will not irritate sensitive skin or block pores. High quality products offer a natural looking tan that is closer to your own coloring but at an affordable price.

Among the few good self-tanners is Neutrogena Instant Bronze. This product is both a sunless tanner and instant bronzer. After application, the actual tan sets within 30 minutes and is a fast dry formula, which allows you to dress within 5 minutes of application.

Another popular self-tanner is Environmental Shield Self Tanner with SPF 15. This self tanner sets within 10 to 15 minutes, with the tan showing up in two hours. This bronzer is perfect for a day at the beach because it offers protection from the sun while also providing a safe tan.

If you have a problem with even application and fear the risk of streaks, Clinique Self-Tanning Body Mist is for you. This tanner smells great and dries quickly. It also can be easily washed off to avoid the dreaded “orange palm” caused by application.

Another top of the line choice is the Bain de Soleil Streakguarde Self Tanning Crème that works overtime to prevent streaking. This inexpensive self tanner is formulated to eliminate the streaky look caused by some self tanners, while leaving behind a deep bronze color. This tanner, which smells of coconut and the beach, comes in medium, dark and deep dark tones and won’t clog pores.

Sunless tanning products do require some training when it comes to the application process. After choosing the appropriate tanner, the first thing to do is wash and exfoliate thoroughly. This gets rid of dead skin that may leave tans looking blotchy. You will also want to moisturize dry areas like elbows, knees and ankles before application. Apply the product to your body by rubbing it onto your skin in circular motions. Make sure to use sparingly around feet and face. You may want to apply the product more than once in order to reach the desired level of tan. Wait a few minutes to shower or put clothes on. Most importantly, make sure to wash your hands after application to avoid stains, which is a tell-tale sign that your tan came in a bottle.