On Friday, I had the enviable task of being whisked away to Aura Day Spa on the Lisburn Road for an LA spray tan to give me that summer sunshine glow that brightens up miserable winter days.

For anyone who hasn't visited, Aura Day Spa is like a tardis. From the front it looks pretty but small, but once you're inside, it seems to go on forever! Its interior design is beautiful and creates a quiet and relaxing atmosphere just seconds away from the hustle and bustle on the street below.

Aura's website has extensive pre- and post-tan advice to ensure you make the most of the treatment. As instructed, I exfoliated and moisturised the evening before my 4.30pm appointment, and refrained from wearing deodorant or perfume. I did wear some makeup as I was in work, but Aura provided me with gorgeous Guinot cleansing products to use before my treatment so I could become makeup-free in luxury.

After the application, I put on baggy tracksuit bottoms and a loose t-shirt with flip-flops. This type of outfit is advised as the tan will take a while to dry and you want to avoid staining your clothes.

I spent the weekend bronzed and beautiful thanks to the lovely Deborah at Aura who did a fabulous job of applying my tan while simultaneously keeping me entertained with stories!

My top tip for gals opting for the LA tan is to book the treatment for the day before your big event. Allowing time for the tan to develop before washing off the guide colour is an essential process before showing off that gorgeous, glowing skin.

To book an appointment at Aura call 02890 666277

Aura Day Spa, 615 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7GT.

www.auradayspa.co.uk