Looking radiant as you walk down the aisle is a top priority, and golden skin looks stunning against a creamy bridal gown. Get a natural-looking tan without risking a red, angry burn with these tips.

Time It Right: Never wait until the night before (or the morning of) your wedding to experiment with self-tanning. Give yourself at least a week to test your results and practice the application, or you may end up streaky with no time to correct it.

Exfoliate the Surface Area: A patchy, streaky tan isn't what you want your wedding photographer to capture on film. Exfoliation helps ensure that the surface of your skin is smooth, allowing the formula to apply evenly for best results. Use a loofah to exfoliate your skin and shave your legs before self-tanning.

Moisturize the Skin: Before applying the self-tanner, moisturize the skin to prime it. Skin that's hydrated and moisturized will accept the formula better, resulting in richer color for your wedding day.

Apply Evenly: Even application is the key to a flawless bridal glow. Liquefy the formula by rubbing a small amount together in your hands; then apply the formula to the face, neck, and body using a thin, even coat. Use a small, circular motion when applying, and wash your hands with soap immediately after application. Some self-tanning formulas have a built-in bronzer, making it easy to see where you've applied it for even color. A great-looking tan will develop in three to four hours.

More Helpful Hints:

• Avoid getting formula on clothing. Make sure it dries completely before getting dressed.
• Apply formula to straight legs and arms so joints don't look darker than the rest of the body.
• Even-out skin tone by applying self tanner to tan lines.
• Reapply the formula as needed.

(NOTE: Even with sunscreen protection, UV-exposure can still lead to skin cancer and premature aging, even if you don't burn. Be safe when you're in the sun!)