Health gurus tell us that lying in the sun long enough to get tanned is dangerous, as UV rays can cause skin damage. However, the use of a tan overnight self tan lotion, especially one with natural ingredients, is good for your skin and also for your morale - since you will look like a gorgeous sun worshipper.

The name alone tells you a lot. The cream, which is tinted to make you instantly look tanner, 'sets' in three hours to a deeper, richer shade of biscuit brown. If you choose, you can apply it, rub it in well, and go to sleep. When you wake in the morning, shower and admire your new look.

Self-tan means that the application activates pigments that darken in sunlight, which is a natural protection against sunburn. With a sunless tanner, there is no need for exposure to harmful UV rays - either natural or in a tanning booth.

A darkly-tinted cream is easier to apply evenly than one that is white or very light in color. You can see areas that have been missed when the application goes on, so coverage can be evened out before the tanner is rubbed in. Wash hands quickly and thoroughly after the job is done, because the palms of your hands will absorb the color and look stained. Go lightly over knees, elbows, and the tops of the feet, which darken more than other areas.

Look for natural ingredients known to be good for skin, such as oils from nuts or fruits, Vitamin E, and aloe. Tanning lotions are not sunscreens, so remember to use a high SPF product when outside for extended periods.

Tan overnight self tan lotion is your way to a safe, gorgeous, sun-kissed look.