It finally feels like winter here in Philly, and everyone’s breaking out her puffy North Face and trendy scarves.
Coming all the way from Southern California, I was looking forward to the seasons. I wanted to watch the snow fall and bundle up for the cold—something only a Californian who has 70 degree weather all year round would understand.
But the one thing I was warned about—and of course, didn’t pay attention to—is how white and pale everyone becomes after November comes around. I don’t think I’ve ever been this pale in my entire life. I probably even had a better tan when I came out of the womb.
Luckily, when I got on campus, I realized fake tans weren’t only for Snooki and Oompa Loompas. But since I’ve been here, I’ve been way too self-conscious to get one, because it seems way too obvious. And I’ve been too scared about the dangers of fake tanning.
But I’ve done some asking around and some research of my own that have changed my mind about tans. Not to mention, I’ve reached a certain shade of white, and I don’t know if I can stand another day looking like a ghost.
Although not the healthiest, spray tans are considered much safer than tanning beds, and I think looking orange for a day while the spray sets into your skin is worth keeping your body away from harmful rays.
Tanning lotions that you can use at home are also a good way to get perfect bronze skin, but there’s much more room for error—weird finger stains and blotchiness. The best lotion I’ve found is the L’Oreal Sublime Bronze lotion.
If lotions don’t cut it for you, I found a good website that has a list of good spray tanning salons around Philly!
HC readers: Are there any other products you would recommend for those who want a sun-kissed look?