While it was once believed that melanin-equipped individuals, such as myself, did not necessitate the use of sunscreen, or that sunless tanning practices, like spray tanning and self-tanning, offered no value to one's beauty regimen, experience has demonstrated the contrary. In reality, both beliefs are misinformed.
As a black girl who has not only experimented with spray tanning but also advocates for its benefits, I can attest to the numerous myths surrounding this topic. After meeting celebrity tanning artist Alexandra DiMarchi, I discovered that her clientele, comprised of celebrated black figures such as Jordyn Woods, is evidence that not only do black women embrace sunless tanning but also that it is in high demand.
My initial hesitation stemmed from a lack of understanding... as I asked not only "Do black girls do that?" but also "Do you know how to do that for black girls?" DiMarchi's response, a resounding "yes," alleviated my concerns. According to DiMarchi, many black clients seek sunless tanners to achieve an even complexion, enhance radiance, and attain a healthy glow.
Skin discoloration is more noticeable on darker skin tones due to the contrast, making evening out the complexion a common goal. However, as I reside in New York City and she is based in Los Angeles, it became challenging to maintain consistency. DiMarchi suggested using an at-home self-tanner, specifically Tan-Luxe in medium-dark... which left my skin with a radiant luminosity that I had not previously experienced.
DiMarchi explains that self-tanning products contain DHA (dihydroxyacetone), an ingredient that reacts with the amino acids and proteins in the skin, resulting in the browning effect that yields a tanned appearance. Similarly, there exists a wide range of shades available for black skin, allowing individuals to choose a product that suits their skin tone and provides a natural, customized look.
This variety is crucial, "as it enables users to tailor their self-tanning experience to their unique skin type." ELLE magazine has provided valuable information on this topic, highlighting the significance of proper sun care and sunless tanning practices for individuals of all skin tones, "including black individuals." As a result, it is imperative to educate oneself about the various options available and to prioritize both sun safety and self-care.
A Guide To Self-Tanning For Black Women
• Despite misconceptions, sunless tanning (spray tanning and self-tanning) can be beneficial for Black skin, as it can even out skin tone, enhance radiance, and achieve a healthy glow. 2. Many Black clients seek sunless tanners to address skin discoloration, which can be more noticeable on darker skin tones due to the contrast. 3. Self-tanning products, such as Tan-Luxe, contain DHA (dihydroxyacetone) which reacts with the skin's amino acids and proteins to produce a tanned appearance. 4. There is a range of shades available for Black skin, allowing individuals to choose a product that matches their skin tone and provides a natural, customized look, similar to foundation or hair dye shades.
Beauty and Self-Care
The pursuit of beauty and self-care is a journey that knows no bounds. It's a quest to not only enhance one's physical appearance but to also nurture the inner self. And, as we strive to perfect our exteriors, it's essential that we prioritize the well-being of our bodies and minds. After all, a healthy and happy individual is often the foundation upon which true beauty is built.
For many of us, the emphasis is often placed on achieving a flawless complexion, luscious locks, and a toned physique. And, while these outward appearances can certainly boost our confidence, it's crucial to remember that true beauty lies within. It's about embracing our unique features, flaws and all, and celebrating the beauty that makes us who we are. As ELLE magazine so profoundly puts it, "it's time to redefine the way we think about beauty and self-care." As we navigate the often-turbulent waters of ___... it's easy to become so caught up in our daily responsibilities that we forget to prioritize our own well-being. But, taking care of ourselves is not a luxury, it's a necessity.
Whether it's squeezing in a quick yoga practice during our lunch breaks, indulging in a relaxing bath after a long day, or simply taking a few moments each morning to meditate and set our intentions, self-care is essential. And, when we do take the time to pamper ourselves, we're rewarded with a renewed sense of energy, clarity, and purpose.
For black women, in particular... the struggle to find products and practices that cater specifically to our skin tones can be a significant challenge. But, thanks to pioneers like tanning artist Alexandra DiMarchi, who has made it her mission to empower black women to embrace sunless tanning, we're slowly but surely catching up. And, as ELLE magazine so aptly puts it, "it's time to redefine the way we think about beauty and self-care." With an array of self-tanning options available, from medium-dark shades to bespoke products designed specifically for black skin, the possibilities are endless.
Of course, the journey towards achieving true beauty and self-care is not without its ups and downs. There will be setbacks, mistakes, and moments of self-doubt. But, it's precisely in these moments that we must learn to be kind to ourselves, to practice patience and forgiveness, "and to remember that true beauty is not about achieving some external ideal," "but about embracing our authentic selves."
Misconceptions about Black skin and the sun have existed for as long as we can remember. For years, I convinced myself that because of my melanin, I didn't need to wear sunscreen, and that sunless tanning—think spray tanning and self-tanner—added no value to my beauty routines. However, over the years, both myths have proven the furthest from the truth.• • • •
I can speak to it firsthand as a Black girl who loves spray tanning (yes, you read that right). My first experience came when I met celebrity tanning artist Alexandra DiMarchi . Her clientele, which includes celebs such as Jordyn Woods and a slew of other Black A-listers, is proof that not only are Black women leaning into the treatment, but also that it's in incredibly high demand.
