For the past 12 years I have religiously worn SPF 15 on my face every day, rain or shine. I have olive skin so people think I am crazy and that I do not have a "problem" with the sun. The problem is that I am too vain to look older than I am due to sun damage, so, I began investigating self-tanners. I have used quite a few and truly believe that if applied properly they are great! I read every article I could get my hands on first, looking for someone who would rank them. ALLURE Magazine had an article a few years back that helped me to be brave enough to start.

Some instructions:
Don't even try this unless you have some time to do it right. Rushing through this will be a big waste. While showering make sure you exfoliate your whole body with a good loofah and a body scrub. Knees, ankles, feet and elbows especially.
After you are done, dry yourself off. DO NOT PUT ANY LOTIONS ON TO MOISTURIZE.

Self-Tanners I have tried:
Clarins Self Tanning Gel (without sun protection)
I have used this one for a few years and I love it. The color is very nice. Golden bronze and very natural. Clarins has a pretty big line of self tanning products. Some have sun-protection, some do not; some are for the face, some spray on. There is something for everyone's preference in terms of application. This line is a bit pricey, but if you are nervous about using a self-tanner for the first time, try this line first.

Neutrogena Sunless Tanning Spray (Medium Deep)
This non-aerosal spray is non-streaking, and fast drying. It dries so fast that I forgot where I had just sprayed! I am sitting here waiting for its effects as I write this, but I can already tell that this application method is not for me. I prefer the lotion formula. I feel I have more control.

Mary Kay Self Tanner
Gives a nice deep tan color that looked great on my legs. I went through tubes of this last summer. Less expensive than Clarins. If you know someone who sells Mary Kay, give it a try.

Clinique
Clinique has an entire line of self-tanning products. They also have some that are tinted so you can see where the product is as you apply it. I tried two of their products: one just for the face and the other is just a plain old self tanning cream. I did not like the face product. I really did not want my face that dark! I was also not confident of my application abilities and there were streaks around my jaw and ears. Not for me. When I tried the regular self tanner on my legs, arms and chest, I did not care for the coverage or color. It was really just okay.

My top vote for a great looking tan every time is Clarins.