Tanning products for Summer time!

You know that part in ‘The Wizard of Oz' when Munchkin Land finds out the Wicked Witch from the West has finally been killed, and there's that big party where the entire town sings and dances and celebrates a new era? That's kind of how I'm feeling about the end of winter/start of summer this year. I spent 2 months in New York in December in the dead of the US winter, only to come home to a whole Melbourne winter. I've had enough! And so, I'm starting summer early. If you're anything like me, by the end of winter you're sick to death of looking at your pasty, dry skin and you're kind of regretting all those casseroles with an extra serving of bread you ate on many cold winter nights. Am I right? Kick start your summer bod now with a little faux tanning. You'll feel much better about yourself, give the illusion that you've lost 3kgs and you'll be ready and raring to go when you wake up one morning and it's suddenly "shorts weather".

Here are some quick tips for the perfect tan:

1. EXFOLIATE!!! Prior to tanning get out a great exfoliating scrub, focus on knees and elbows
2. Wear gloves to avoid a discoloured hand
3. Spread evenly and don't do a double coat if you are using a new product, most tans take time to develop some up to 8 hours
4. If you want a gradual tan try some of the great moisturisers that have a slight tint that develops slowly over time
5. Let dry and the next day use your moisturise

Here are my picks for the best tanning essentials:

•    St. Tropez Self Tan Bronzing Mousse 120ml $65.95 (available from Priceline and David Jones, or Catwalk on WOL)

•    Napoleon Perdis Whipped Dream Tan Enhancer $40 (available from Napoleon Perdis stores, concession counters and WOL)

•    Le Tan Fast Tan Hands Free Deep Bronze 150ml $12.95 (available from Priceline, Safeway, or Pharmacy Online on WOL)

•    Sportsgirl Body Glow Instant Bronzer $9.95

•    Nude by Nature Mineral Bronzer 15ml $29.95 (available at Priceline)

•    ModelCo Blend Buffing Mitt $13.99 (available at Priceline)

•    The Body Shop Coconut Body Butter $27.95

•    St. Ives Fresh Skin Invigorating Apricot Scrub 150ml $9.95 (available at Priceline, Safeway and Coles)