Summer is just around the corner, and that means it’s almost time to show off that sun-kissed skin. There’s just one problem; your bare limbs haven’t seen the sun in almost a year! Most of us are in classes, on co-op, or otherwise don’t have 4 hours a day to devote to napping in the sun. Which is why I’m a big fan of faking a healthy, summery glow.
Before I get started on the how-to part of this post, here’s an important note: “Healthy glow” is the key part of this. The trick to making yourself look naturally tan without actually getting a tan is moderation. You want to make your skin tone a little tanner, and more even. You don’t need to be a bronzed goddess. If you overdo it, you’ll probably just wind up orange. Got it? Okay, now on to the good stuff…
For Your Body: Gradual Tanning Foam
I know there are lotions, sprays, and mousses and a huge variety of brands available, at all different prices. Sometimes the options can be overwhelming, so I’m going keep this simple: Gradual tanning foam. I use Jergens Natural Glow Gradual Tanning Foam ($8.50, drugstore.com). It’s not super expensive, and it’s pretty idiot-proof. They make a version that’s a lotion, but I think the mousse goes on easier and is less “streaky.” The way that it works is there’s a bit of self-tanner mixed with a regular lotion, so that the color builds over the course of several days. That way, if you miss a spot, it’s less noticeable because you can just cover over it the next time you apply. Here are some tips for application:
- The Jergens foam is available in multiple shades, based on your starting skin tone. I have the lightest one. If you’re having trouble deciding between two shades, go with the lighter one. It just has less actual pigment in it. If it’s not enough color for you, worst case scenario is that you have to put on more tanner. When faking a tan, always err on the side of caution.
- Always exfoliate before you apply. It will make the color go on more evenly, and help it last longer.
- I like to apply it before bed. It takes about 10 minutes to dry completely. Then I put on loose, long-sleeve PJs. That way I shower off the tanner in the morning, and don’t smell like it all day long.
- The directions on the container say to apply it every day for about a week, then to use it every few days or so to “maintain” your color. I use it way less than recommended. I’ll use it two, maybe three nights in a row, and then every other (or third) night for a few days. That’s it. Done.
- Always wash your hands very carefully and thoroughly after you apply! Make sure you get your palms, your wrists, between your fingers and around your nails. Sometimes the tanner settles here, and leaves a stain. Which is no good! Orange stains on your hands, and streaky or too-intense application are the most obvious giveaways!
For Your Face: Bronzer
This is an easy, instant way to give yourself a little extra glow. It also helps the color of your face match your body’s skin tone. The skin on your face is thinner, and it probably gets washed & exfoliated more than the rest of your body, making your face paler. Needless to say, I’m a huge fan of bronzer. Using just a little makes me look healthier and more awake. I use Brown’s Bronze Shimmer Brick. It’s $38 at Sephora. While it may seem a bit pricey, I’ve been using mine for literally years. (It’s like the never-ending-bronzer!) Some tips:
- The trick is to apply it where the sun would naturally hit your face the most. Your temples, your cheekbones, your forehead, your nose, your chin.
- Be sure to blend well. You don’t want to look streaky or like you’re wearing 1980s blush.
- Again, moderation is key. Using a little less is way better than using too much.
- Use a multi-tonal bronzer, like the Bobbi Brown one. If you’re just testing out bronzer and not ready to drop major dough, Physician’s Formula Shimmer Strips ($12, drugstore.com) is a very similar product. The stripes of different, shimmery colors blend together to help keep your makeup looking natural.
That’s all I’ve got for fake tan tips and tricks. Now go on and get your glow on!