There is no better feeling than getting all dolled up for a night out on the tiles with your pals.

And it's so true what they say - getting ready is half the fun!

Between choosing your outfit, how to style your hair, which shoes to opt for and how to wear your makeup , a lot of planning goes into getting ready for a night out.

One step of the process which is arguably the hardest one to get right, however, requires utter concentration.

It is, of course, applying your fake tan.

Using gradual and you might end up looking like an Oompa-Loompa, use instant and you risk smelling like a curry. It's a hard life.

That is why here we have compiled the top self-tanning tips to help you avoid any streaky disasters as you prepare for your night out!

1. Exfoliate

Exfoliating before applying fake tan is of the utmost importance. It's a well-known fact that this helps to remove dead skin cells, therefore creating a smooth surface for your fake tan to be applied to. This in turn, creates a more even and golden colour. For best results, use an exfoliating glove and scrub the skin in circular motions.

2. Avoid waxing at all costs

If you want to apply fake tan, it's crucial you remove any hair required 24 hours beforehand. This gives time for the skin to heal, and in particular will prevent those annoying red dots popping up on your legs. It's also worth noting, if you plan on getting a wax, don't do this while wearing tan. It completely defeats the purpose as the wax will not only remove your hair, but the tan too!

3. Use an aloe-vera based moisturiser

Don't be shy when it comes to using this. Lather an aloe-vera moisturiser all over your hands, feet, knees, elbows hands, and even your hairline and eyebrows if you want to prevent them from absorbing the tan. This will help you to maintain an even coat on tanned areas and will stop it from changing colour.

4. Always use a mitt

This may seem a little obvious, but never leave tanning to chance with a sock or clothing item! Use a mitt, and apply the tan in sweeping motions as opposed to circular ones for better chance of an even distribution. It's also best to work toe-to-head instead of head-to-toe, so start from the ankles and work your way up.

5. Mix tan with moisturiser if applying to face

Applying tan to your face can be a daunting task. Most people avoid it, opting to just blend their foundation shade in instead but there is no need to be afraid of giving your face the golden glow treatment. Simply mix the self-tan with some moisturiser to create an even glow and to reduce the risk of a breakout.

6. Take it to the next level with highlighting and sculpting

To give your (now stunning) fake tan an extra pop of fun and glamour, don't be afraid to highlight contour. Simply add additional tan to places such as underneath the collarbones and between the thighs to give these body parts a more sculpted look, and go hell for leather with the highlighter on areas such as shoulders, collarbones, cheekbones and your legs to give your tan a sleek and polished look.