I’ve never been a fan of salon tanning. Those tanning beds look like coffins to me and I’m not up for the strong UVA rays that they emit. For a summer glow, I usually opt for sunless tanners. A few weeks ago, a new one caught my interest because instead of the typical cream or oil application, it’s a spray-on system. Salon Bronze Airbrush Tanning System ($13, Sally beauty Supplies) includes DHA, a derivative of sugar cane that within hours activates the melanin in your skin to give you a tan. I had to give it a whirl.

The application process is like airbrush tanning at a salon. Before you begin, you need to make sure to cover your floors or apply the formula in the shower so you don’t stain your surroundings while spraying yourself. The kit comes with a plastic gun-like applicator, a spray can with the tanning formula, and two sponges, which can be used to apply the formula to your face. To start, I slid the spray can into the applicator gun. Being right-handed, I had no trouble spraying my left side, but had trouble maneuvering it with my left hand while spraying my right side. Also, reaching my back was tough. I was able to cover most of my body with a light coat of the formula. Since it goes on as a mist, one can is good for several applications.

The results were smooth, and pretty even, and the color didn’t look orangey-fake. Your skin doesn’t smell during or after the process either. But I had to let it dry for a good 30 minutes before dressing so it didn’t rub off on my clothes. Several days later, I still had a nice tan! The cream formulas might be easier to apply, but this one definitely left a lasting impression.