The season of swimsuits and sunshine is finally upon us, or in the case of Ames weather lately, the season of rain jackets and umbrellas. But now that summer is here, almost every girl is chasing that perfect, glowing tan.

Regardless of the risks, being bronzed is just not something us Midwestern girls are willing to give up yet. Here’s the secret to get glowing skin (even if it continues to rain all summer) without damaging your skin or breaking the bank: self-tanning.

Self-tanners are scary, let’s be honest. We all want the perfect tan, but doing it yourself can be daunting, and I know I’m not the only one who has ended up with streaky orange legs after a bad self-tanning experience.

Now, however, with more new products than ever stocking the shelves, you can find one that’s easy to apply and actually looks real. After trying some out, here are my top choices.

The Wipe

Using a self-tanning wipe takes away the worry of streaky lines. Packaged separately for easy, one-time application, wipes come in a range of hues from light to dark allowing you for a slight glow or a darker, more dramatic effect. Just rub on your body in circular motions and you’re golden. The tan should start to develop in about an hour.

The best part: Dries quickly and doesn’t leave you feeling greasy.

The worst part: May need more than one wipe to cover your entire body.

Try: Sonia Kashuk Sunless Tan Face & Body Tanning Towelettes, $10.49 available at Target Stores.

The Spray

Don’t let a spray-on tan intimidate you — they’ve been using the same technology at salons for years. Make sure you exfoliate your skin prior to using so that the spray will soak in evenly and you’ll remain blotch-free. Holding the can at arms length you should be able to reach everything — even your backside — but if you’re nervous about missing the back of your neck or knees, enlist the help of a friend. A rookie mistake; don’t rub the spray in after applying, just let it dry.

The best part: Dries instantly and within an hour you’ll be two shades darker.

The worst part: Doesn’t last very long- similarly to salon sprays, this tan will fade fairly quickly without persistant upkeep.

Try: L’Orèal Sublime Bronze ProPerfect Salon Airbrush – Deep Tan, $9.49 available at Walmart stores.

The Lotion

Lotions can be tricky, but when applied with careful attention they can get you a gorgeous, even tan. Go for a lotion that boasts a gradual tan, which means it goes on lightly and builds deeper each time you apply. This allows for a more natural progression and the continued application lets you fix any streaks or blotches that may arise. Most lotions come in a range of skin tones — fair, medium dark. Make sure you pick yours based on your starting skin tone, not where you want to be or your tan might turn out looking unnatural.

The best part: most lotions come with SPF protection built in… bonus!

The worst part: Must apply every day for about a week to see noticeable results- if you’re looking for a quick fix, this isn’t the solution for you.

Try: Jergens Natural Glow Moisturizer SPF 20, $8.69 available at Target stores.