Consider the reasons you may still be opting to use your local tanning salon or lay on a beach towel for hours instead of using a self-tanning product, such as St. Tropez bronzing mousse. Despite the knowledge many have regarding the dangers surrounding baking in the sun or using a tanning bed, people still do it because of a number of myths surrounding self-tanners.

If your preconceived notions about self-tanning are the only thing preventing you from trying out a bottle of St. Tropez bronzer, Tan Towel towelettes or a similar self-tanning product, here’s a look at the truth behind five common self-tanning fallacies:

Myth #1: Self-tanners do not last long.

Fact: Tans – whether you get them from the sun, a bottle or a mister – always fade. Sunless tanners from makers such as Tan Towel generally last about seven to ten days. After tanning in the sun or at a salon, your tan will only last a few days longer. However, what does last after soaking in rays are the side effects: premature wrinkles, aging, peeling skin and damage that you may not be able to see. To help your self-tanner last longer, avoid using moisturizers that contain mineral oils, alpha hydroxy acid and petroleum.

Myth #2: Self-tanners will make your skin look orange.

Fact: If you use self-tanners after their expiration date, live in the 1980s or choose the wrong type of self-tanner, this myth can be true. However, by choosing a reputable product and the right shade, you will have a tan that looks as great as the real thing. To avoid choosing a shade of bronzer that is not right for you, use a gradual tanner (like St. Tropez bronzing mousse), which gives you a light tan look that darkens with continued use.

Myth #3: A spray tan makes you smell, and you have to be naked to get one.

Fact: The great thing about the skincare industry is that it continuously evolves. While the original spray-tan solutions did leave clients with a less-than-pleasing aroma, the products available today contain scent neutralizers and pleasant fragrances.

Unless you want a spray tan all over your whole body, you do not need to be naked to get one. When you go to a salon to get a spray tan, a technician will generally have you wear cotton underwear. If wearing only underwear in front of a stranger makes you uncomfortable, you also have the option of purchasing your own spray tanning kit to use at home.

Myth #4: Self-tanners offer protection from the sun.

Fact: Self-tanners offer about as much protection from the sun as spraying water on yourself – none whatsoever. Short of staying inside, to properly protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays, always use a lotion that protects against the sun’s UVA and UVB rays. For everyday wear, use a product that has an SPF of 15 or 30. On days that you expect to be in the sun longer, use a product that has an SPF of 45 or higher. If there is a chance that you will get wet or will sweat while you are out, make sure the sunscreen is waterproof. Additionally, carry a bottle of sunscreen with you, as its effectiveness does wear off within a couple of hours.

Myth # 5: Self-tanners are expensive.

Fact: Skin cancer and sun damage will cost you more. Skin cancer does not discriminate against age, race, religion, social class or those who do good deeds. It is becoming more common for dermatologists and oncologists to treat skin cancer patients who are in their 20s and 30s. While skin cancer is not always a terminal disease, survivors may face large hospital bills, regular skin grafts and a life planned around their condition and medical needs.

If you are fortunate enough to not have experiences skin cancer, baking in the sun or in a tanning bed can prematurely age and wrinkle your skin, thus encouraging you to spend your hard-earned cash on anti-aging solutions. When you compare your options, a $25-40 bottle of self-tanner such as St. Tropez bronzer can help make your decision to get glowing skin safely a no-brainer. A product such as Tan Towel Half Body Classic is only $24 or so for 10 towelettes.

For sun-kissed skin, opt for a self-tanner instead of a sun-bake session. Your skin will thank you.