With summer approaching, it's time to pull out the tanning lotion yet again. It's not cheap though, is it? So here are a few tips to help make your bottle of bronze stretch a little further this tanning season.

Pay attention to application. To apply tanning products most effeciently, begin working on a small area. Then, softly and in an even manner, rub in the product - but not too generously.

If you work your way out to other areas in a swirling, but still gentle and even rub, rather than going in an up-and-down direction, you will stretch your product further and still have the same level of effectiveness.

Getting to those hard to reach areas like your back may require an extra hand.

Diluting is OK. When using these lotions on more sensitive areas like your knees, feet, hands and elbows, either dilute first with a moisturizing lotion or use very small amounts when gently rubbing in.

Rubbing with a make-up sponge applicator works well for these areas, too. Doing this will help prevent build up, irritation and waste.

Remember to use sunblock too! Many tanning lotions do not contain any level of SPF protection. Remember the basics, long and light clothes and high SPF sunblock to protect your skin at the same time.

If you make an effort and follow these tips, a little bit of lotion will go a long way, so slow and steady does it.