no matter how much you wash your hands afterwards they still stain and go orange plus how can you wash your hands when you need to tan the back of them, thats why i use a mitt. i would not recommend lotion as its greasy and you cant see where its been put on until it develops. also it remains very sticky and greasy on your skin so when you go to bed with it on it rubs on the sheets and leaves white patches. if you cross your legs during the day if you put it on then, it will leave a white patch. i still say the mousse is so much better as you can see where it goes on and it dries quickly. i just applied mine right now to the tops of my arms in particular as i will be wearing a strappy top tomorrow and from my knees to tops of my legs especially as i want to wear shorts tomorrow. good luck, sure you will look fab with a tan, you look so much healthier. i often get compliments about me looking so well , sure its cos of this!