If you can’t tone it, tan it

14 Jul 2010 12:00 PM | Posted by Editor

We all feel better with a bit of colour in our skin. Why? Because for some strange reason, by simply altering our skin tone, we instantly feel healthier, more carefree and, let’s face it, a whole lot skinnier. (We’re a strange minded bunch, aren’t we?)

So it shouldn’t really come as a surprise to hear that tanning salons are offering faux glow contouring services.

The theory behind it is if you strategically apply your tan and intensify the colour on areas lacking in muscle definition, it creates the illusion of trim, toned skin – no exercise needed.

Apparently, you can also create the same affect at home. To fake toned triceps, simply blend an extra coat of self-tan or bronzing cream along your natural triceps line, from your elbow to shoulder.

A taut tummy can be created by slightly darkening the vertical contours on either side of your belly button, while slim-line legs can be achieved with some extra shading under your calf muscles.

I can’t say these techniques would definitely work (and to be honest, I don’t think I’d ever have the patience to try them!), but if you want to give it a go, you’ll be heading in the right direction with these great glow enhancers:

St Tropez Self Tan Bronzing Mousse
Rimmel London Sunshimmer Sexy Legs with Lycra
California Tan Tinted Self Tanner Airbrush
Fake Bake Original Self Tan Lotion
Le Tan Jet Dry
Deb x

Do you feel skinnier or healthier with a tan? Have you ever tried body contouring using a tanning/ bronzing product?