How to Fake a Summer Glow

Skin cancer, wrinkles, brown spots, biopsy, Mohs surgery. These eight words continue to freak out an entire generation of former sun worshipers who loved to “lie out” and bake their way to a tan. However, many people ages 50-plus — including those who have committed to applying SPF 30+ daily — still believe they look healthier and more attractive, and feel better, when their skin has a sun-warmed hue. Thanks to updated self-tanners, bronze boosters and multitasking makeup, we can all go sunny side up with safe sun-free glow-getting options. Here’s how:

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Tanologist Face + Body Self Tan Drops in Light

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1. Mix tanning drops with skin care for a mini tan.

Instead of jumping into a full self-tan routine, try giving sallow, ashy, blotchy, pale or tired complexions what I call “tan lite.” Tanning drops give mature skin a mistake-proof gradual sunny glow, and the best part is you mix them right into your existing skin-care routine. Just a couple of drops turns everyday moisturizer, serum, face oil or even a non-retinol night cream into a perfect facial self-tanner. Simply blend the drops with any of the above in the palm of your hand before applying. For a subtle glow, use two to four drops; for a more golden or bronze look, dial up the number of drops. By controlling the number of drops and frequency — from daily to every other day or once a week — you can easily achieve a customized level of golden warmth. Try Sol by Jergens Deeper by the Drop Face + Body Serum ($20, walmart.com), Tanologist Face + Body Self Tan Drops in Light, Medium, Dark ($22, cvs.com) and Tan-Luxe The Face Illuminating Self-Tan Drops in Light/Medium or Medium Dark ($50, ulta.com) for a believable look. But don’t stop there. Keep the effect seamless by applying any leftover mix (or a little extra mix) on your hands, neck and chest, or blend a few drops with your body lotion and give arms and/or legs the same hint of color. And then wash your hands! Just a reminder: You still need to apply an SPF 30+ broad spectrum sunscreen daily.

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2. Go to a pro to kick-start a stress-free summer.

Jumping into a summer wardrobe of bare legs, swimsuits and sundresses, or wearing a skin-revealing dress for a beach-side wedding, is challenging. You can’t beat a salon spray tan for first-day confidence — especially if you’re concerned about extra pounds, jiggly skin or discolorations. The flawless finish can help blur discolorations and warm up skin that’s been under wraps. A spray tan also eliminates tan lines and makes wardrobe changes — going from a V-neck swimsuit to a strapless one or pivoting from a tee and jeans to a breezy sundress — easy. To be honest, there is a difference between a self-tan and a salon spray tan. Only a pro can get every tiny nook and cranny and control the exact level of allover tan they prefer. You’ll want to note what DHA percentage the technician used for a possible repeat process later and be sure to discuss skin concerns like psoriasis, eczema, vitiligo and sensitivity when you book the appointment. It’s fine to get sprayed in underwear for modesty’s sake (or in a bathing suit) but choose your briefest pair and exfoliate your skin before “tanning” for a smooth, even finish. Make sure to wear loose black clothing to the salon, and wait to shower for six to eight hours afterward to prevent uneven color development and tan stains on car seats, clothing and furniture. While color begins to develop within two or three hours, give it the full eight to 10 hours for final results. Costs vary, but expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $75.