Problem: My feet, knees and elbows are discolored

The Fix: Hydrate first

To avoid the dreaded "Orange Foot" spotted here on Victoria Beckham, take the necessary precautions - before applying self-tanner, massage moisturizer onto rough areas (like the knees, elbows and the feet and hands) and wipe off excess with a towel. The layer of hydration will prevent skin from absorbing too much tanner and looking dark.

Problem: My face is way too dark

The Fix: A bronzer instead of self-tanner

Your face should be lighter than your body, or else you risk looking unnatural and even older. Bronzing powders or tanners made just for the face will give you a subtle, youthful glow.

By Melissa Goldberg

WireImage.com

Problem: I can't reach my back

The Fix: Spray it on

Self-tanners in a spray form are ideal for hard-to-reach spots. As you get more practice, use sprays to shape thighs and stomach by concentrating color on problem areas.

Problem: Orange hands

The Fix: Laundry detergent

Mix a teaspoon of detergent granules with water to make a paste. Gently scrub palms and between fingers to erase color. To prevent future mishaps, wear latex gloves to apply self-tanner.

Problem: Splotchy Color

The Fix: Try mousse instead of lotion

Beginners will have more success with a mousse texture that glides on more evenly and is less prone to streaking.

Problem: I'm terrified of self-tanners

The Fix: Go slow

Build color slowly with new body moisturizers that you can use everyday. Apply to dry skin after showering in the AM, and see a touch of color by evening. Bonus: they're practically mistake proof.

Problem: I'm have darker skin, but I want a glow

The Fix: Go for shimmer

Use a spray or lotion with golden light-reflecting particles on legs and shoulders to add a radiant sexy glow to deeper skin tones.

Problem: My clothes are stained

The Fix: Plan to tan

If you want to show off sun-kissed skin in white clothes, apply product a day before you dress. A gentle shower after your tan emerges will get rid of extra color that may rub off. Also, most stains will come out in the wash.

Problem: My tanner makes me itch

The Fix: Rethink tanning

If you have sensitive skin, test any product in a small area to see if skin reacts before committing to color. Porcelain skin is beautiful too, and your health is not worth the risk of a fake bake.

Problem: I have tanner's regret, and want it off

The Fix: Head to the kitchen

After soaking in warm water to open your pores, rub a lemon on skin to release its acidic juice. Finish by gently scrubbing with sugar or baking soda, and rinse. And since the ingredients are natural, you won't harm your skin.

by Melissa Goldberg

WireImage.com

Mystic Tan Perfect Tan Kit for Face, $54, sephora.com

You'll love it because...
It's absolutely goof-proof; the 3 step system protects against over-application with a genius base that increases color depth and saturation in all the right places.

Mystic Tan

Clarins Self Tanning Instant Gel, $32, sephora.com

You'll love it because...
Come summer, this cult-favorite graces the legs of every beauty editor. The natural shade of golden tan, paired with the super quick drying time, makes it perfect for a quick morning glow-n-go, getting you out the door in time for your first meeting.

Clarins

Bliss A Tan For All Seasons, $36, blissworld.com

You'll love it because...
The antioxidant-infused formula gives gradual, believable color - with zero "self tanner stench" thanks citrus-scented odor-repelling actives that mask the smell of DHA.

Bliss

Clinique Self Sun Body Airbrush Spray, $20, clinique.com

You'll love it because...
It's like getting a professionally airbrushed spray tan. The lightweight mist mimics the effects of spa-service, thanks to a multi-angle spray dispenser and a fast-drying formula.

Clinique

Victoria's Secret Bare Bronze Collection Daily Glow Moisturizer, $16, victoriassecret.com

You'll love it because...
It builds color slowly and smells amazing!

Rachel Been, AOL

Aveeno Continuous Radiance Moisturizing Lotion, $13, www.target.com

You'll love it because...
You mix the shade which means you won't have to buy a new bottle as your tan builds.

Rachel Been, AOL

DuWop Revolotion SPF 15, $28, www.sephora.com

You'll love it because...
It protects against UV rays, free radicals and soothes skin irritation all while providing golden color.

Rachel Been, AOL

Hawaiian Tropic Island Radiance Self Tanner, Medium/Dark, $9, www.drugstore.com

You'll love it because...
The clear gel formula guarantees you'll never ruin another white t-shirt in the pursuit of the perfect tan.

Rachel Been, AOL

Joico Skin Luxe Golden Shimmer Gradual Self-Tanner, $16, www.joico.com

You'll love it because...
The ultra moisturizing formula (a blend of botanicals, Aloe Vera, Safflower Oil and Olive Oil) will leave your skin feeling as amazing as it looks.

Rachel Been, AOL

Mary Kay Subtle Tanning Lotion, $14, www.marykay.com

You'll love it because...
It comes in both shimmer and matte options so you can customize your tan.

Rachel Been, AOL