Have you ever had strangers approach you on sunny days, expressing concern and suggesting, “You really should apply some sunscreen”?
Have you reached for the “Ivory” shade in the foundation aisle only to realize it’s too dark for your skin tone?
Or perhaps you’ve been captured in photos where you appear as a mere pair of eyeglass frames and a cozy sweater in bright daylight?
IF THIS RESONATES WITH YOU, WELCOME TO THE CLUB!
As summer approaches, many people around us become fixated on showcasing skin that has been tucked away throughout the cold months. They openly question the relevance of pantyhose and flock to beauty stores seeking the most extravagant self-tanners available.
While they can indulge in that if they wish, I’m here to advocate for yet another summer devoid of tanning, fake-tanning, or bronzer.
I am the result of a genetic blend between a man whose farmer’s tan resembled milk chocolate by mid-August and a red-headed woman whose freckles seemed to ignite at the mere mention of “summer solstice.” While I can tan slightly, I simply choose not to. I’m comfortable with the natural paleness of my skin, hair, and eyes—no matter how many people insist I need a touch of color.
Over the years, I’ve experimented with ways to look less ghostly, but the results never met my expectations. Self-tanner turned my skin into a patchy mess, and bronzers often left me resembling a box of chocolate cake mix. The pursuit of a look that wasn’t authentically mine was not only costly but also embarrassing—why would I continue that?
Sure, I could opt for a lower SPF and gradually build a tan, but my family history includes various forms of skin cancer, including melanoma, making it simply not worth the risk. Additionally, sunburns are incredibly painful—no thanks!
I’ve grown accustomed to people mistaking my paleness for illness, as if my glowing skin were a sign of some ailment rather than a choice. I no longer take offense to comments about my translucence or the playful nicknames like “Casper” and “Powder,” or the endless vampire jokes—thanks a lot, “Twilight.”
It’s absurd to me that anyone, regardless of their skin tone, should feel pressured to change their appearance based on others’ opinions. Recently, I spoke with a friend who is my polar opposite in terms of skin color, and we noted the eerily similar remarks we both received about our contrasting complexions while growing up. I simply cannot comprehend why this pressure exists, and I’m done listening to such nonsense.
In fact, I’ve come to embrace what many have deemed undesirable since the 1920s: my natural paleness. Here are some advantages I’ve discovered:
- I can wear any tank top without worrying about tan lines.
- I never waste money on self-tanners that leave me looking like an Oompa Loompa.
- My makeup shade remains consistent throughout the year, sparing me the hassle of seasonal adjustments.
- My diligent use of sunscreen often leads to me being carded when purchasing alcohol.
- Have you seen someone sweating off their bronzer? It’s a sight reminiscent of a Salvador Dali painting, and not in a good way.
- I’ve accepted myself as I am. What could be better?
So, if you’re someone who pokes fun at another’s fair skin or suggests they “fix” it, consider this: rather than judging, appreciate that they’ve embraced the skin they were born into. Maybe recognizing the beauty in their tan-free, bronzer-free existence could inspire you to appreciate your own skin, too. Now that would be truly beautiful.
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Summary
Embracing your natural skin tone, regardless of societal pressures or beauty standards, can be liberating and empowering. The advantages of being pasty extend beyond mere aesthetics, allowing for a carefree summer experience free from bronzers and tanning hassles.