It is always best to exfo first as the tan will stick to any dead skin cells, if the st tropez one is too costly go for a cheaper version though the st tropez one is nice as it lathers up in the shower/bath. Use body lotion sparingly i would advise there body lotion as you dont know how other body lotions will react with the tan though i have never tried this as im always too scared of coming out green or something. You only need to put body lotion on dry areas, E.G Knees, elbows, hairline is a must so it blends well also heels, wrists, cuticles etc so it doesn't gather. When you come to applying the tan make sure every bit of skin is covered and there is no white this will come out even so long as there are no white parts even if the brown looks a bit streaky it is a vegatable guide colour so that you can see where you are putting it, this was actually designed for that purpose thats why it is so popular plus the colour is fantastic. If you are pale though like Morrisonker stated then use a 50/50 mix of tan and body lotion. You will need to stand around for a bit till you have dried, i use to leave my clients about 15 mins then buff of the excess guide colour(this doesn't effect the final result), best to do this at night sleep in it then shower in the morning. Good luck and happy tanning!