The Golden Standard
Among Hawai‘i’s most-sought after souvenirs is the perfect gold tan. Before heading to the beach, be warned that one marker of a “tourist” is the pink-and-white striped flesh of the sunburned.
Because of our prime equatorial position (which concentrates the sun’s rays) as well as the reflective effect of sunlight and UV radiation on sand and water, protection is essential.
Fortunately a number of products—many of which make use of the organic materials and botanicals that grow here in Hawai‘i—strive to offer the magic combo of protecting skin while enhancing a tan. There are also products for those who want a faux glow sans any help from the sun.
Here are our picks for the hottest natural Hawaiian tanning products that won’t leave you feeling burned.
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- Protect the sensitive skin on your face with Lancome’s Bienfait UV SPF 50+ Super Fluid Facial Sun-screen. It’s soft matte, ultra-light finish wears well under makeup, and it retains its SPF even after 40 minutes in the water. It is Oil free and suitable for sensitive skin. $35 at Macy’s in the Ohana Waikiki Beachcomber.
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Look tan without the burn by using Lucy B Frangipani Bronze Shimmer Oil. It enhances skin with bronze tones suspended in organic oils, while adding the tropical scent of plumeria and coconut. $38 for 50 ml. at Angels by the Sea, found in the Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa.
True to Josie Maran’s eco brand, her Argan Self Tanning Cream is formulated with moisturizing organic argan oil and DHA derived from sugar beets and sugarcane. It is also free of parabens, sulfates, petrochemicals, phthalates, GMOs or other adverse products. $32 at Sephora.
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- From the Valley Isle, Maui Babe Browning Lotion promises a “fast dark tan” with natural oils, aloe and Kona coffee plant extracts.
