Every girl wants a healthy glow. I cringe at the thought of showing up at prom looking like a pasty, but that does not mean that I am willing to go to the lengths that my friends are just for a tan! They may feel relaxed by whipping off their winter parkas, tying on their tiniest bikinis, closing their eyes and letting their thoughts drift off to a distant beach, but they will not be relaxed when they see themselves years from now!

I know, I know, you've heard all the warnings before, but seriously, girls, going to tanning salons is not the answer to sun-kissed skin. While the benefits of bronzed skin might highlight the hue of your dress or shine the light on your muscle tone, the exposure to extended amounts of UV light encourages the development of skin cancer, and breaks down the collagen layers of the skin to lead to signs of early aging. Really, now! No one wants wrinkles at age thirty!

But don't worry, I don't only spout off health dangers. I also come equipped with some excellent alternatives to tanning beds! A quick trip to your local drugstore will unearth a treasure trove of self-tanning products. Jergens Natural Glow daily moisturizer has been tested and given the two-thumbs-up by many of my friends, and it comes in different tones for all sorts of skin shades. If you want a faster and more dramatic tan, try out the other products in their line. Just make sure you test your selected product on a small area like your forearm or wrist before a full application.

Another option is the spray tan, which can be done at a salon and isn't too expensive. Spray tans often last for a couple of weeks, so you can support any stories you spread about the weekend you spent in Los Cabos. Also, don't be afraid to embrace your natural skin tone. A creamy complexion is beautiful, as evidenced by Evan Rachel Wood and Amy Adams on the RC!

But if you're not into my advice and continue to tan, please use sun-screen and exercise moderation! Have a happy, healthy prom!
Kristen