Ooh this is a very good question!
Fake tan works on the very outer, dead layer of the skin’s surface of the skin, while brightening serums do their melanin-inhibiting thing on the bottom layer of the epidermis. So it’s not as though a fake tan will actually stop your serum from working. But many serums have exfoliating properties (because the less dead skin you have hanging around, the more effective the treatment), which won’t do a fake tan any long-lasting favours. So you’re right, it’s probably pointless fake tanning your face.
As for matching up your face to your body when swimming, a tinted gel (used in place of foundation) has good staying power – for example: Clinique True Bronze Bronzing Gel for Face ($42 from Clinique). But by far the best way to keep your face aglow all day is by mixing a bronzing cream into your sunscreen every time you reapply. For this I love Elizabeth Arden Flawless Finish Mousse Makeup in Sheer Sunkissed Bronze ($39 from department stores for a limited time).
Ahh the old “active ingredients vs fake tanning” quandry. It’s still got me beat.
Comment by Katherine — August 26, 2008 @ 10:22 am
Wait hang on.
Is there an even-skintone product that DOESN’T lighten skin? (I know I’ve asked you before, Kat… any updates?)
Made the mistake of buying a massive bottle of EL Idealist pore-refining whatsit from duty free and I have most of the big turquoise jar left cause I looked like Michael hoJackson after a week. Whoops.
And not to be a stoppy cow (but it’s my turn this week!) but that pic kinda looks like she rubbed red sand on her face…
Comment by Sunili — August 26, 2008 @ 1:04 pm
Hi Sunili,
So you do you mean you have a few dark spots you need to ligthen? If so, perhaps you’re best off with a brightening treatment that you just apply to those spots. SK-II has one off top of head - but I can look more up for you if you need.
K x
Comment by Kat — August 26, 2008 @ 2:20 pm