by: Lauren Fry
For years, fake tans have been the easy way to get a vacation glow, either bed tanning or spray tanning. However just recently, there is a new tanning trend in the UK. It all started with ski gear/apparel companies giving their models a fake goggle tan to look authentic on the shoots.
Like other trends also starting with models, it has spread to fashion savvy europeans. Certain tanning salons even provide the goggles to tan in for a small fee. Women across europe are looking to get the appearance of an alpine ski bunny without the work of skiing, or the risk of burning. Not many people have the time and means to take time off of work to go ski the alps over a long weekend. Yet a short trip down the street to the tanning salon is completely manageable during a lunch break.
Many blogs and newspapers are questioning the sanity of women who pay to get the goggle tan that most skiers dread. There is lots of criticism over whether this trend will catch on or if it will blow over. On the other hand, what trend does not have naysayers?
As a lifetime skier, I have experienced the goopy, the runny and the slimey. After trying about every type and brand of sunscreen to avoid the horrible goggle burns, these are some of my favorites.
1. Stick Sunscreen: the goopy stick may clog your pores but it does the job and is easy to use, and it’s also easy to put it on with gloves while riding up the ski lift.
2. Sport Sunscreen: for days when I go without goggles, having a sunscreen that won’t run into my eyes or mouth is a blessing. This is especially helpful during spring skiing!
3. Lip Balm SPF: with the cold and wind burns, having a good chapstick on the slopes is key. Peeling off your lip burn along with a goggle burn is just a pain, and uncomfortable. My favorite is a vaseline brand chapstick.
Because the sun reflects off of the snow and creates extra exposure, a good sunscreen is extra important for protecting your skin. While shopping, it is important to look for a product with UVA and UVB protection. This will help to avoid burning and peeling; this will also allow for a realistic and safer tan. That is becoming increasingly popular, instead of the fake tans that are unsafe and unreliable.
The Environmental Working Group rates all types of sunscreen and has great tools to help you find your perfect match. On their website they have all the new safety regulations of the FDA, as well as research and tips to buying the best sun block, and getting what you pay for. Check it out! And hit the slopes and skip the tanning salon!