The Fascination with Fake Tans: Beyond the Orange Glow
As someone who has navigated the complex world of social dynamics since childhood, I want to share my personal journey with fake tans. At 50, my looks have been a crucial part of my life, and fake tans played a significant role in feeling confident and attractive for many years.
My Background and the Pressure to Fit In
Growing up in a beautiful neighborhood, I was blessed with striking leg length from a young age. However, despite my physical advantages, I faced challenges.
During my high school years, the pressure to be thin and beautiful was intense. Girls competed fiercely to outshine each other, with big hair and the latest fashion being necessities for fitting in. School was a brutal landscape of social inequalities, but I've come to appreciate the resilience and friendships that emerged from those challenging times.
The Neighbor's Influence and the Draw of Tanning
One of my neighbors was the object of every boy's desire and a constant source of envy for her olive skin and poolside lifestyle. For a long time, her enviable appearance drove me to seek a similar look, even if it didn't come naturally.
Things changed in 1985 when the older sister of this neighbor opened a tanning salon. It was a game-changer, and we were happily allowed to tan whenever we wanted. This was a crucial moment as it was the first time I felt genuinely attractive.
The Development of Beauty Through Tanning
The idea of beauty I embraced came from magazines, specifically Cosmopolitan. While these ideals were often unattainable and unrealistic, they fueled my efforts to improve my appearance. However, my long legs and lighter skin always left me feeling out of place in the sun.
The tanning bed was the only thing that consistently made me feel beautiful and confident. It wasn't just about the tan; it was about the overall sense of acceptance and self-worth. Even as I grew older and entered adulthood, the tanning bed remained a source of happiness and security. While I realize the potential dangers, I've chosen to ignore them, as my looks have been a valuable asset, bringing in significant income over the years.
By age 40, I made a conscious decision to stop tanning. However, at 50, I've resumed my tanning routine, acknowledging that it no longer looks fake or orange. The use of spray tans in recent years has made a significant impact, as they offer a more natural and realistic appearance, which is a safer alternative to traditional UV tanning beds.
Conclusion: The Safer Alternative
As someone who has actively sought and used fake tans throughout my life, I can say with confidence that they can be a safe and effective way to enhance one's appearance. While the potential dangers of UV light exposure can be concerning, the advancements in spray tanning have made it a viable and safer option.
It's important to recognize that the desire for a certain look is often driven by societal pressures. However, it's equally important to make informed choices that prioritize both beauty and health. As for me, I'll continue tanning for as long as it makes me feel good and confident, no longer considering it an issue until I feel a change is necessary.