I love a gorgeous sun-kissed glow as much as the next gal. I mean, there’s no denying that pretty much everyone looks better with a tan. On the opposite side of the coin, soaking up the sun, be it the actual sun or the UV lights in tanning beds, is really dangerous and can cause wrinkles, age spots, and of course, skin cancer.
I know it’s tempting to forgo the warnings to give your skin a ‘healthy glow’ but I don’t want any of you to suffer the dire consequences later on, which is why I’ve scoured the market to find the best products to help you get that healthy sun-kissed glow without the unhealthy repercussions. These days, there are amazing products that really do create a realistic glow, nothing oompa-loompa like, I promise!
Here are a few things to remember. When applying a self-tan cream or spray, make sure your skin is totally clean and exfoliated. When it comes to bronzers, dust over the nose, tops of cheeks and forehead- wherever the sun naturally first touches the skin, for a natural look.
Check out my fave faux-glow products after the jump!
Laura Mercier ‘Mosaic’ Shimmer Bloc, $38. Create a soft and subtle glow with this multi-faceted cheek bronzer. The shades combine perfectly to create an ultra-flattering, bronzed shade. I reach for this when I want just a hint for color.
St. Tropez Instant Tanning System, $42.50. This set contains everything you need for a professional at-home tan, including body polish to exfoliate, moisturizer to soothe and nourish the skin to help your tan really last, and tinted self-tan that dries quickly and melts right into the skin. Once you’re done, enjoy a gorgeous tan that will last 7-14 days. Also try the St. Tropex Spray Tan, $35, which Olivia Wilde relies on to create a gorgeous glow before red carpet events.
Givenchy Prismissime Mat & Glow, $53. This bronzer compact is perfect for summer days when you want less shine, and more of a matte finish. The shades mix together gorgeously for an ultra flattering bronzed finish.
La Prairie Cellular Self Tan, $115. It may be a bit pricey, but trust me when I say it’s worth it! This lightweight, non-greasy, fresh- scented formula instantly soothes and moisturizes your complexion and provides an even golden tan in 1-2 hours. . This cream is my secret weapon on days when I don’t have time for makeup application, it really is THAT good. It’s also infused with SPF 15, which is always important.
Sally Hansen Airbrush Legs, $13.99. This weightless, long-lasting, transfer resistant spray provides instantly bronzed, smooth, flawless, legs and has been my secret weapon for years (it also has an optically slimming effect, always an added bonus!). In addition to providing a perfectly smooth, even tan, it conceals scars, bruises, and freckles and is enriched with Vitamin K to help fade imperfections.
Stila Sun Compact, $28. This powder will not only get you looking like a breathtaking bronzed goddess, it’s formulated with SPF 15 and provides full protection from harmful UVA and UVB rays. For a light, sun-kissed look, use Shade #1, for a tanner look, use Shade #2.”
gloMinerals gloBody Bronzer, $33. This luxurious lotion is formulated with an exclusive blend of antioxidents to nourish the skin and maintain a healthy radiance while protecting it from future damage. It can be used on all skin types to create a subtle, immediate, all over tan, or enhance a natural tan by adding a hint of beautiful shimmer.
Jergens Natural Glow Daily Moisturizer, $7.99. This self-tanner is gentle and lightweight and gradually builds color for a natural looking sun-kissed glow.
– SABRINA ALEXIS
Splash image by J Rurunavira