Ever been approached by a stranger on a sunny day who says, “You really should put some sunscreen on?” Or maybe you’ve picked out an “Ivory” foundation only to find it looks more like a tan on you? How about showing up in photos looking like just a pair of glasses and a sweater under the sun? If you can relate, then welcome to the club!
As summer rolls around, many folks start obsessing over showing off skin that’s been hidden away all winter. They debate the relevance of tights and rush to beauty stores for the fanciest self-tanners. But as for me? I’m here to advocate for a summer free from tans, fake tans, and bronzers.
Genetics have gifted me a unique blend: a dad with a farmer’s tan the color of milk chocolate by August and a red-haired mom whose freckles go wild at the mere mention of summer. I can tan a little, but honestly, I just don’t want to. I’m completely at ease with my naturally light complexion, even if others think I need a touch of color.
Over the years, I’ve tried to venture into the realm of looking less ghostly, but it never turned out well. Self-tanners left me looking like I had rusty streaks all over, and bronzers made me resemble someone who had a close encounter with a chocolate cake mix. Trying to fit into a mold that wasn’t me was both costly and humiliating—so why keep it up?
Sure, I could lower my SPF and risk a sun-kissed glow, but with a family history that includes various skin cancers, including melanoma, it just isn’t worth it. Plus, sunburns? No thanks, they’re brutal.
I’ve grown accustomed to people assuming my paleness is a sign of illness rather than a personal choice. I’ve heard all the jokes about being “Casper” or “Powder,” and after a while, they just roll off my back. It’s absurd that anyone, regardless of their skin tone, should feel pressured to change their appearance or be ashamed of their genetics. A friend of mine, who is my complete opposite, shared how we received similar comments about our skin tones growing up. It’s baffling, and I’ve had enough of that nonsense.
Instead, I’ve embraced my skin’s natural paleness, which has often been deemed undesirable since the 1920s. Here are some perks I’ve discovered:
- No more tan lines when picking out tank tops.
- I don’t need to spend money to look like a giant Oompa Loompa.
- My makeup color stays consistent year-round, no seasonal changes required.
- My sunscreen habits may be why I still get carded when buying alcohol.
- I’ve seen people sweating off their bronzer, and it’s like a Dali painting gone wrong. Hard pass!
- Accepting myself as I am has been the most liberating experience.
So, if you find yourself teasing someone for their paleness or suggesting they “fix” it, consider appreciating their confidence instead. Embracing our natural selves is beautiful, and who knows, it might inspire you to do the same one day.
Oh, and for the record? I’m not just pale; I’m porcelain.
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In summary, let’s celebrate our unique skin tones and encourage each other to embrace our natural beauty, whether that means rocking a pale complexion or flaunting a golden tan.