Those ultraviolet rays might create a sun-kissed glow, but they just might result in freckles as well. Prevent those pigmented spots, which are a sign of sun damage, and stick to a self-tanner to protect your skin. You don't need a tropical getaway to enjoy a bronzed glow, either -- you can rock your freckle-free tan year-round when you use a self-tanner. Wear an SPF 30 sunscreen daily to protect your faux tan from freckles.

Shave or wax your soon-to-be-tanned skin to ensure a hair-free surface on which to apply the self-tanner. The hair-removal process can remove self-tanner, so do it before you bronze your skin.

Massage an oil-free exfoliating scrub into your skin to buff away dead skin cells and create a smooth application surface. Then apply a lightweight moisturizer to your elbows, knees and heels, which will quickly absorb the self-tanner. Along with a light layer of moisturizer on thick skin, your skin should be completely dry before you apply the self-tanner.

Massage the self-tanner into your skin in a circular, upward motion, one body part at a time. Begin at one ankle, moving up the leg, and then start the other leg. Apply a thin, even layer to avoid overdoing it and ending up too dark.

Massage self-tanner into your face last. Use a lightweight moisturizer to hydrate freckle-prone spots before application. Then focus on working the self-tanner into non-freckly areas, massaging the tanner outward to even out your complexion. Avoid applying too much self-tanner to your nose and upper lip, which are more likely to absorb the self-tanner and, thus, appear darker.

Wait at least 10 minutes to allow the self-tanner to dry, and always follow manufacturer recommendations on drying time. Don't put your clothes back on until the self-tanner has set, to ensure you don't stain them.