A healthy tan, even in autumn and winter

Skin that is too pale can make someone not look very healthy. Quite a few people would like to keep their summer tan. But that also has its pros and cons…

Tan without sun products

Self-tanning products contain dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which only acts on the epidermis and oxidation creates the tan on the skin surface. After some time the color disappears again.

The cons:

• The disadvantage is that it is often difficult to apply these products evenly and without streaks, causing the whole thing to appear spotty or streaky.
• Unfortunately, there are products on the market that produce an unnatural, too dark brown or even an orangey tint. Fortunately, there are also tanning products available without sun that provide a natural effect. The sprays often give a better and streak-free result than manually applying creams or lotions.
• The products must be reapplied regularly otherwise the brown color will disappear again.
• Self-tanning products often do not provide protection against the sun. There are some with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF).

Tips:

• Make sure that the skin of the legs is smooth, without rough spots on the knees and heels, for example. First use a peeling and a nourishing cream or callus cream to prevent rough spots on the skin. Only switch to using self-tanning products when the skin is nice and smooth.
• Make sure that the tan without sun products are applied properly. Make sure that the cream does not accumulate in, for example, heel creases, backs of the knees, and on the knees. This causes brown spots and an ugly and unnatural result.

Colored body lotion

In addition to the caring effect, a colored body lotion also gives a tan to the skin. Sometimes this body lotion can rub off. So let this lotion soak in thoroughly before getting dressed. These products often provide no or insufficient protection against the sun. Always pay attention to the Sun Protection Factor.

Tanning bed

The tanning bed can provide a nice tan, but I would not recommend it myself. It must be used with caution, its use also promotes skin aging. Excessive or incorrect use can cause damage to the skin. So be careful.

Spray tan

A tanning liquid is sprayed over the skin. This usually happens in a cabin or special room. An even, brown color will develop that will disappear after about six to seven days. The price per treatment is approximately between twenty and thirty euros. If this treatment is repeated regularly, it can become quite expensive. Also, breathing in the mist might not be very healthy.

Brown for the face

In addition to using self-tanning products specifically for the face, you can also opt for another solution, such as using a bronzer.

Bronzer in liquid or gel form

To give the face a healthy look, some bronzer can be applied. In addition, a bronzer can also be used as a face shaper, or to model the face. There are different types available, for example with a matte finish or with gloss particles incorporated. So first make a choice and look not only at the effect, but also at the skin type. For example, a matte finish is better for oily skin, because the skin itself often shines too much. For skin that looks dull, a bronzer with shine can actually look nice. To shape the face, the bronzer can be applied just below the cheekbone, or along the jawline and on the sides of the forehead. Look at the shape of the face. A narrow face does not need shadows along the face, which will actually make it appear narrower. A round face can appear slimmer with the use of shadows. To just give the face some color, a touch can be applied to the cheekbones, chin, forehead and nose.

Bronzer in solid powder form

The bronzer in solid powder form is easy to apply with a brush or puff. It often gives a natural effect. There are also variants for light or darker skin tones on the market. If you have a light skin type, do not choose the dark version, because it looks very unnatural. Maybelline has two variants with a matching blusher, under the name: Terre Indischene. One is suitable for lighter skin, the other for darker skin.

Bronzer as loose powder

Bronzers are also available as loose powder, for example under the name Egyptian earth. Dip the brush into the jar and dab off the excess. Then go over the entire face. Take a clean brush and remove any excess powder.

Tip: For mature skin, do not use too much powder and certainly not a dark shade. The excess of powder can accumulate in folds, grains and wrinkles and makes the skin look older. Do not clog the skin with too much make-up or powder, but rather keep it light and airy.

Pro and contra

A brown shade looks healthy and wins over a pale, sallow skin color. You can also model the face well with bronzers. But a skin color that is too tan can also make you look older. In addition, imperfections and wrinkles are more noticeable. So it is a matter of personal taste. Also pay attention to the natural skin color and do not choose an ultra-brown color if you have a very pale skin type. Also look at the overall picture of hair color, eye color and skin color.