Listen and follow The Wirecutter ShowApple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music | YouTube | iHeartRadioIf you grew up with self-tanners, you may remember them as an orange, streaky mess. Today's formulas have come a long way, delivering a natural, sun-kissed glow—as long as you know how to apply them correctly.In this episode, Wirecutter beauty writer Ayanna Redwood-Crawford explains how today's self tanners work better for a range of skin tones. She shares how to choose the right formula for you, avoid the dreaded orange streaks, and find the best self tanner whether you're a first-timer or getting ready for a beach vacation.This episode coversWhy self tanners aren't just for light skin. Self tanners work on virtually every skin tone. While lighter skin may develop a deeper tan, darker skin tones can use them to even out uneven pigmentation and add a healthy glow.How they actually work. The active ingredient in self tanners, DHA, is a sugar-derived ingredient that reacts with the amino acids in the outer layer of your skin to temporarily darken it without any UV exposure.How self tanners differ from spray tans and bronzers. At-home self tanners use the same active ingredient as professional spray tans, while bronzers only provide temporary color. Self tanners are also a much safer alternative to tanning in the sun or a tanning bed.How to apply without streaks or orange patches. Ayanna walks through her step-by-step routine, from exfoliating and moisturizing dry spots to using an application mitt and choosing the right clothing while your tan develops.How to make it last longer. The right maintenance routine preserves an even tan for up to a week. Consider how to shower, when to moisturize, and avoiding exfoliation until you're ready for the color to fade.Products we recommendBest for beginners Jergens Natural Glow + Brighten Daily MoisturizerJergens Natural Glow + Brighten Daily MoisturizerThis gradual-tanning lotion develops a subtle, warm tan over a few applications. Testers didn’t see the brightening benefits promised on the bottle, however.Buying options: $11 from Amazon, opens in a new tab$10 from Walmart, opens in a new tabBest for a streak-free tan Norvell Venetian Self-Tanning MousseNorvell Venetian Self-Tanning MousseAll of our testers — regardless of their skin tone — said this airy foam gave them an even, noticeable glow. Application involves a slight learning curve, but the natural-looking guide color makes things easier.Buying options: $38 from Amazon, opens in a new tab$38 from Walmart, opens in a new tabBest for the quickest, darkest tan St. Tropez Self Tan Express Bronzing MousseSt. Tropez Self Tan Express Bronzing MousseThis creamy mousse blends in easily. It develops into a seamless light tan in one hour and a deep, dark tan in three to five hours. But it smells like hand soap.Buying options: $46 from Amazon, opens in a new tab$46 from Ulta, opens in a new tab