Thanks to the myriad bronzing products now available, it's easy to achieve radiant skin without ever setting foot in the sun - which is especially good news after a long winter hibernating.

Fake it with make-up

For colour without commitment, a sheer bronzer is what you need. A body-specific version, like glominerals Body Bronzer, $57, will add sheen to your limbs. For a dewy, oh-so-natural complexion, a liquid or cream version is best. Try Elizabeth Arden Flawless Finish Mousse Makeup, $39, for an all-over glow, or By Terry Bronze-Expert in Sun Tropic, $110, for brush-on precision. Or dust on a powder, like Dior Bronze Lumières d'Or Ready-To-Wear Golden Summer Make-up in Amber Sunlights, $85, with a large brush for instant radiance.

Be streak-free

For an even colour all over, remove any remnants of scaly skin with an exfoliant, such as The Body Shop Moringa Body Scrub, $27.95. Next, swipe a self-tanning wipe over your body. A relatively new way to tan, these products have been designed to make the application process fast and fuss-free. Try Garnier Ambre Solaire No-Streaks Bronzer Self-Tanning Wipes, $4.99.

Glow now, glow later

Achieve a top-to-toe colour in a hurry with a self-tan and bronzer in one. The bronzing component will impart an instant hue, while the tanner works away underneath to build colour that lasts about a week. We love Lancôme Flash Bronzer Self-Tanning Leg
Gel, $54, and Clinique Self-Sun Quick Bronze Tinted Self-Tanner Mousse, $33.

Add a hint of tint

An easy way to enhance your complexion is with a moisturiser that includes self-tanning ingredients. First launched a few years ago, the new breed are now better than ever, with hydrating ingredients to nourish post-winter skin, and a little self-tanner to create a convincing, sun-kissed effect after just a few applications. Try Biotherm Summer Source Daily Radiance Fluid, $56, or L'Oréal Paris NutriSummer Face, $14.95.



Prices and availability correct as at August 6, 2008