Q I’ve just returned from holiday and want to prolong my tan. Can you suggest a good self-tanner?

Carole Buckley, Wester Ross

A I understand your desire for a hint of colour to eke out the last few weeks of summer. Ambre Solaire’s No Streaks Bronzer Dry Face Mist (£6.99, available nationwide) comes in two shades, Light and Original, and is specially formulated for the face. First cleanse and lightly moisturise, then hold the can 30cm from the face and spray. The mist dries instantly and contains vitamin E and apricot-kernel oil to nourish skin and leave it glowing.

St Tropez Everyday (£12.95, www.st-tropez.co.uk) is similarly foolproof and also comes in two variations: light-to-medium and medium-to-dark. It contains anti-ageing marine extracts to look after the skin, so can be used in place of your daily moisturiser. Apply to cleansed skin.

Dear Sarah: should I go on a sunbed?

A reader wants to obtain a tan for a big event. Our expert advises her on the best way to achieve it

Background

• Dear Sarah: My pores are the size of soup plates

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Both of these products give a subtle tan that will deepen with each application, so you are always in control. And rest assured – thanks to new formulations, that dreaded orange glow is definitely a thing of the past.

Please e-mail your beauty questions to sarah.vine@thetimes.co.uk

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