The rain has started again in "Sunny Los Angeles." But as spring fashion magazines start arriving, stores premiere their spring collections, and eighty degree days peak their heads through the yucky weather, it is hard for me not to gear up for spring dresses and flirty shorts. So, what do I need? A tan.
While some might not support "fake baking," I find it acceptable when done in moderation, and done as safely as possible. You can get a beautiful pre-glow, something to get you ready for your first trip to the beach, while only spending 5-15 minutes every other day. Here are some tips to keep your skin safe, soft, and beautiful.
1) Do not, I repeat, do not go tanning every day. Your goal is not leather hide, it is healthy glow. Go every other day.
2) Do not tan longer than your skin can take. You will not get tan faster. You instead will burn and peel and have to start over. If your skin has not seen sun in a while, (consider an area like your stomach, since it is usually covered), start with 5-7 minutes and stay with that until you do not get red after a session. Up your time by two minutes and repeat the process.
3) Use a tanning lotion, if anything, with some SPF. A 5 SPF will give you some shield at least.
4) Use a sticker to show your progress. You see your skin everyday, so you may think you are not getting any darker, but you will be surprised what one session can do.
5) Protect your face! Wear sunscreen everyday, and if you are going to tan your face, do it for half the time of your body. Remember, you can always use makeup and bronzers to make your face darker.
6) Use a lotion after your showers with cocoa butter. It is great for dry skin and smells of Bahama dreams.
7) Exfoliate on your off days. This helps keep your skin moisturized and also helps if a little peeling does occur.
These are two of my favorite products:
Vaseline Cocoa Butter Lotion $4.99 (This one goes on sale a lot!)
Bath and Body Works Body Scrub in "Sensual" $16
