EVERYONE needs a perfect glow, especially in the summer.
I am not a dedicated tanner and I am not one of those fortunate people who tan instantly. With some of the most terrible experiences with self-tanning products behind me, an expert fake tan was my final option, so I turned up for a St Tropez Spray Tan.

St Tropez was first released more than a decade ago and it persists to be one of the most prestigious brands of fake tan. It recently revolutionized its products, they are now perfumed and no longer have that fake tan smell.

I had not moisturized before I went for my treatment and began to panic that it might influence the outcome of my tan .But I was assured that I had done the right thing as most moisturizers, particularly scented ones, have chemicals that can turn the tan green. For this reason I had to take away any make-up, deodorant or perfume.

Michelle, who carried out my treatment, took care of the moisturizer and applied it to the widespread problem areas, such as elbows, knees and feet. I have to confess it was a strange experience; standing on what can only be described as two pieces of fly paper, stark naked wearing nothing but a hair turban and disposable knickers, which were surprisingly comfortable, while someone sprayed me with perfumed air!

When I had contorted myself into several positions to make certain that I would not be left with any white patches and repeated them for my second coating of fake tan, Michelle took me to the mirror and exposed the tiny white strip around my hips where the disposable pants had been.

The difference was astonishing and the tan was instant, this was certainly down to the fact that my natural skin tone is so pale. "Most people don't see a real difference until a few hours after their treatment" she said.

St Tropez advises clients to wear loose fitting, dark clothes and bra, but if you can manage without a bra it will benefit your tan. I was wearing jeans, which turned out to be a mistake and I was perhaps a little excited to get dressed, and was not quite dry enough, as a result of this my legs were not quite the same shade as my arms.

The tan darkened all through the day and by evening I looked like I'd escaped from Willy Wonka's Chocolate Factory, but after a shower the next day I looked like I had a fortnight in Ibiza.

I was happy to hear good comments from everyone on how well I looked and I loved showing off my tan (it's the only one I've ever had). Unfortunately, it only lasted a week but I will definitely get another one, especially for a special occasion.