Self-tanning expert advice needed!

So, I am a VERY pale chick and I'm having major trouble with self tanners. I've been trying for 4 years to get this right and I still dont know what I'm doing wrong.

First I tried the light versions of the brands I used because I figured since I was so light ANYTHING would give great results, and it either turned out orange (even with the olive undertone ones) or it was just barely or not at all noticeable. Then, I decided to move onto the darker formulas, and still it doesnt give me the results I see other girls getting. No matter what, it either doesnt show up, is splotchy, or looks orange and unnatural. Especially my legs, my thighs take color "ok", but knees turn orange and my calves to do not take the color at all.

I'm not sure if just some people's skin just doesnt take to tan or what.

The brands I have tried are:

All of the walmart brand equate tanners (I think they are discontinued)

Jergens Mouse

St Tropez

Loving Tan

St Moriz (currently trying this not) not going great

Send Help!

Also; I shave and moisturize the day before self tanning. I use the st tropez applicators and remover.