If, like us, you spent the two weeks over the holiday break horizontal, basking in the beautiful sunshine of an Australian summer, then it’s likely you have a few tan lines that could use some evening out. Of course, you applied SPF50+ every time you stepped outside but that sun kissed colour still peeps through. And we’re not mad about it.

But as much as that triangle bikini top tan line is cute when you’re relaxing by the pool, we don’t blame you for wanting to even it out when you slip into your strapless dress for an early dinner. Here, we have our top five tips for keeping your summer colour even and supermodel-esque.

If we’ve said it once, we’ve said it 1000 times: apply SPF50+ every time you leave the house. Yep, it doesn’t matter if you’re just walking to get your morning cappuccino or if you’re planning on relaxing by the ocean for hours on end, SPF is a non-negotiable.

Not only will it keep you protected from sun damage (and eventual skin cancers down the line) but it will also ensure you don’t end up with nasty burn lines or an uneven tan. Plus, if you find the right formula, it also gives the skin a lovely glow while you wear it. Not the point but a welcomed bonus in our books.

Gritty Pretty Loves: Standard Procedure SPF50+ Sunscreen, La Roche Posay Anthelios Invisible Fluid Spray SPF50+, Mecca Cosmetica To Save Body SPF50+ Hydrating Sunscreen

Easy to apply and with no pesky orange residue, a gradual tanning product is your best friend in the warmer months. Simply apply after your shower of an evening and let the subtle formula do its thing. We suggest concentrating the product in the areas where your tan lines appear and using sparingly on drier areas like your wrists, elbows, ankles and knees.

Gritty Pretty Loves: Jergens Natural Glow Daily Moisturiser Medium To Tan, Tan-Luxe The Gradual Illuminating Body Moisturiser, Bondi Sands Gradual Tan Milk

If you’ve left your tan line maintenance to the last minute and have a backless frock for dinner with the girls, then it pays to have a quick fix product in your arsenal. Whether it’s a wash off faux tan or a body glow product, one swipe of these one-night-wonder products and you’ll be looking glowing and even in no time. Our biggest tip? Apply these with plenty of time to spare and let them fully dry before getting dressed to avoid any colour transfer. 

Gritty Pretty Loves: Sally Hansen Airbrush Legs, ModelCo One Night Tan Mousse, Fenty Beauty Body Sauce Luminising Tint

Okay, so not technically a tip to even out tan lines but certainly a tip to keep your tan looking even and glowing, moisturising every day is key. Not only will this ensure that your skin’s hydration levels are topped up and the texture refined, but moisturising daily will help to preserve that beautiful summer glow you’ve spent three months building. Just ensure that the formula you choose doesn’t contain any actives (as these can cause irritation when exposed to the sun) and, instead, opt for something filled with nourishing ingredients like ceramides, niacinamide and hyaluronic acid.

Gritty Pretty Loves: Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Body Lotion, Bangn Body Firming Lotion, SkinFix Barrier+ Lipid Boost Body Cream

If you’ve decided that you’re going to commit to a proper fake tan to help even out those tan lines, then it pays to spend the time finding a formula that suits your skin, your routine and your budget. Whether it’s an eight hour foam or a quick one hour express lotion, finding the right formula will pay serious dividends when it comes to ensuring that the application and wear is seamless. It does take some trial and error but the payoff is worth it. The best place to start? Work out what your undertone is (warm, cool, neutral) and select a shade and brand accordingly. This will help you avoid any overly orange accidents.

Gritty Pretty Loves: ModelCo One Hour Tan, St Tropez Self Tanning Bronzing Mousse, Eco Tan Invisible Tan