Of course, you know you'll look healthier and thinner with a tan. But you also know that the only safe way to achieve aforementioned tan is with self-tanner. The good news is a realistic faux-glow is super easy to achieve, especially if you follow these tips from Natalie Cupid, head technician at Sundara Airbrush Tanning in New York City.
She says to start by exfoliating to get rid of that top layer of dead skin cells and shave or wax the usual areas. Skip the moisturizer on the day you plan to apply self-tanner, as it can act as barrier between the tanning ingredients and your skin. For the most natural looking tan, you are going to want to choose a product that's only one or two shades darker than your natural skin hue. She recommends a buildable tan like Jergen's Natural Glow Express, $8.99, for faux-tanning newbies.
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Spray and glow
For those of you not new to the faux-glow rodeo, try an at-home spray tan like the TEMPTU AIR Pod Summer Skin Kit, $75, which you literally airbrush on. If you're feeling fancy, you can even try defining muscles with it -- here's how.
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Be sunscreen savvy
All seasons require regular sunscreen application, but summer is that special time when more of the body is exposed to the sun for longer periods of time, which means you need more sunscreen, applied more often and to more body parts.
Here are some sunscreens to try: For the face -- MDSolarSciences Mineral Screen Tinted Gel SPF 30, $24 is great for the summer months as it's a physical block containing titanium dioxide and zinc. It's also non-comedogenic, so it won't clog pores. Added bonuses: No shiny or gooey residual feel, no added chemical actives, and it adds a subtle hint of color if you want to go sans makeup on the beach. For the body -- Aveeno HYDROSPORT Sunblock Spray with SPF 50, $8.99 is great for when you're on the go. It provides UVA/UVB protection and stays on despite water and sweat. Added bonuses: Lightweight, non-greasy, and no goopy white mess.
So the jig's up and most of us have finally realized, and begrudgingly accepted, that we will not be frolicking on the beach in a thong bikini this summer.
Sad? Eh, maybe if you (and your metabolism) are stuck in the '80s. Otherwise, you should know that you don't need a starvation plan -- or a sarong wrapped over your butt -- to feel confident in your body and sexy in a swimsuit this season.
That's right, you heard us. It's time to retire the Montego Bay seahorse sarong. Sorry, but come on -- it's really only hiding your self-esteem. You won't need that cover-up anyway, because with insider secrets from David Kirsch (celebrity trainer to the fittest and most fabulous stars) on how to quickly de-bloat and shed a few pounds, coupled with the best summer skin tips for glowing, bronzed skin, you're going to want to flaunt every inch of your body.
