You know me, a true self tanning addict. That's why when AOL Stylist reached out about the opportunity to film a self tanning how-to with the gorgeous Teni of MissMaven, I jumped at the chance. Plus, the product is a must-have. Watch the video to learn more.
Tan Skin is Damaged Skin, The Shocking Truth that I Swear By & You Should Too
Tan skin is damaged skin. There's almost nothing I crave more than a "healthy" bronzed glow. Especially during this time of year. The way I used to feel, warm and relaxed inside the tanning bed day after day throughout college... those days are long gone. Tan skin is damaged skin. Damaged. I can't stress it enough and feel many people hear it but don't actually comprehend it. The "it won't happen to me" mentality is far too common. But guess what, it will.
As a BeautySweetSpot reader, you know how passionate I am about skin cancer awareness. Last year's "Confessions of A Former Tanorexic" blog post lead to a Good Morning America feature and much more. This week, as I prepare to vacation in Puerto Rico with my fiance, I'll be getting spray tanned before we go and of course, taking all precautions to practice safe sun while there.
“Skin cancer isn’t formed from just severe burns, continual tanning can play a role as well,” advises Dr. Marina Peredo. Trust me, and if you don't believe me, trust the dermatologist. Especially as the weather warms up and you begin to desire some color, remember tanned skin is damaged skin. If you are at a higher risk for skin cancers, Dr. Peredo recommends her patients receive a full body check every six months to monitor any suspicious spots.
AOL Spread "Ban the Tan" Too, On Their Home Page!
I just got a call from my father saying my tanning story was on the homepage of AOL today, (he still has an AOL email address). This is crazy. It's really is an International news story. I'm so so honored that all of these outlets are spreading the story, because it's resonating with so many people. I'm getting emails from former melanoma survivors, people who used to be just like me, mothers who plan on showing the segments to their daughters who are still tanning and others who are inspired. I'm so thankful that this story is affecting people in a positive way and helps spread a safe sun message.
Good Morning America Helps Me Spread the "Ban Your Tan" Message
Last week after I got home from Aruba, Good Morning America's, Linsey Davis paid a visit to my apartment along with a producer and crew to discuss my former tanorexic days and why I kicked my harmful beauty habit to the curb. They couldn't have come at a better time as my former self would have returned from Aruba with blisters from the sun! I proved my case and told the story that some media outlets loved to sensationalize. Here's the segment and an article on ABC that explains it further. I'm honored to have been able to spread the message of safe sun on GMA! More pics after the jump!
I Banned My Tan & Explained Why in the New York Post & UK Daily Mail... Of Course... There Was Added Drama
Hey BeautySweetSpot readers! I'm really excited, because I was given an incredible opportunity to share my "Confessions of a Tanorexic" story on an International level today: first in the New York Post and then in UK's Daily Mail. However, the drama around the situation was a bit blown up for entertainment purposes, obviously. Headlines catch any of you?
As you know, I used to live in a tanning bed and have blogged about my confession back in May. I often credit my now healthy skin and paleness to my editors at my first job, where we practiced safe sun at Cosmopolitan. I literally say, they may have saved my life for if it weren't for landing that gig and entering the beauty world, who knows, I may still be tanning.
The NY Post wrote my name as Jeanette, not Jeannine and also quoted me as saying, "If I didn’t practice what I preached, I would be shown the door.” Not true, I wouldn't even say, "I would be shown the door," even if that's how it went down. I was never given an ultimatum or said that. It was simply an oxymoron for beauty writers to tan as I mention in my former blog posts and my editors, who were my mentors at the time were truly concerned for my addiction. If you read "Confessions of A Former Tanorexic," then you know the story.
Still practicing what I preach here on BeautySweetSpot, I'm honored to have had the chance to tell the story of my tanning confession, what it was like to go through tanning withdrawl and how I've learned to embrace my new look. I believe that practicing safe sun is imperative, but like any addiction, tanning isn't easy to quit.
Dear Jeannine... How do you find a dermatologist and self tanner?
I can't even begin to tell you how many questions I receive daily from women and men (yes, men too) about beauty and grooming. So many that it encouraged me to start a "Dear Jeannine" column. They come in from all angles: Facebook messages, emails, Twitter DM's and even Linked In. I'm honored and humbled and love answering them! If you have a question, the best way to submit is to go through BeautySweetSpot's Facebook Fan page. From now on I'll be answering them all and occasionally publish Q&A's on the site. Here's the first one:
Hi Jeannine!
I just read your article about tanning beds and I have to admit, I not only love them, I have one. In my house. Yeah, I know. I might as well smoke a pack of cigarettes a day! BUT, I recently had a moment where I felt the desire to embrace my fairness! I have not gone in a month and am feeling exactly as you described. Ugly, fat and unattractive. I am fighting the urge to hop back in. I wanted to try a couple of things you mentioned - a dermatologist and a self tanner. How did you find a good dermatologist? What self tanner do you recommend?
Thanks in advance for sharing. Your articles are fun reads!
-L
Dear L,
Thanks for writing and for reading my Confessions of A Former Tanning Bed Addict post. I had a feeling people would be able to relate to my experience. First of all, I'm so proud of you for not tanning this month. Not only is it unhealthy, but tanned skin isn't even attractive any longer... it's the glow you seek. Get rid of that tanning bed asap (think of the new shoes you can purchase by selling it)! Try St. Tropez Self Tan Bronzing Mousse for body and Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Glow Pads for Face (he has body ones too that are equally as awesome).
To find a dermatologist in your area, check the Academy of Dermatology's website. You can also find free skin cancer screenings in your area there. Hope this helps!
xo,
Jeannine
