Bronzed skin may showcase your sculpted pecs or ripped abs, but you should bypass the tanning beds (aka glowing coffins) if you like the look.
A new study from the British Medical Journal found that indoor tanning salons substantially increase the risk of developing carcinoma, and the danger of developing skin cancer is actually greatest among young people. “There’s nothing sexy or attractive about working out hard to get a great body and then having to get a chunk of your skin removed,” says Boston dermatologist Ranella Hirsch, MD.
Fortunately, sunless tanning products have come a long way in recent years—no more funky smell or orange palms, for starters—and depending on your skin type and patience levels, there’s a product that will give you the color you crave. Here, MF presents you with six of the best.
This oil-free gel goes on smoothly for a natural bronzed-god color. Hirsh suggests exfoliating your skin thoroughly before applying any tanning product for an even tone. “And apply gels and creams with a foam paintbrush for ultimate precision,” she says.
Sprays like this are quick and easy to use, since the mist covers your skin without having to slather anything on. The nozzle works at all angles to help reach tough-to-reach spots, and it dries in just five minutes.
If want to give your mug a little color, this formulation contains fruit acids, peptides and green tea that also help erase fine lines and dark spots that may have been caused by the sun itself.
Look like you’ve been living it up in Monaco without the travel time or expense. Vitamins C and E protect your skin from skin-weathering free radicals, and the product is fragrance-free.
The genius with the Jergens self-tanning products is that you apply them daily, and color develops naturally and gradually after a few days. Hirsch says mousse products are great for oilier skin types, since they’re lighter than gels and creams.
Swipe these towelettes over your bod at home, or stash them in your gym bag to bronze up after a post-workout shower. Each sheet is concentrated with a citrus-scented formula that gives you a streak-less look.