Material Instinct: Fake It Til You Make It!

Since moving to Tennessee from Florida last year, I'm finding it much harder to keep my natural tan. One thing I've noticed about my new southern surroundings however, is that a tanning bed is only a stone's throw away. I kid you not, there are tanning beds in video rental stores, gas stations and diners around here. Being tan is a big deal for women in my new state. Even more so than in Florida where laying out at the beach was a weekly ritual for my friends and I.

While tanning packages are fairly reasonable, I prefer to skip the UV bulbs and opt for a gradual fake tan from a bottle instead. I loved L'Oreal Sublime Bronze Luminous Bronzer but have recently found a product I love even more - Banana Boat Sunless Tan Lotion. Unlike the L'Oreal Bronzer, this one has no shimmer that can rub off on your sheets, clothes, etc. and it's steak-free, self-adjusting formula is almost as amazing as it's $6 price tag.

I'm a Medium/Olive skin tone naturally but find I look much healthier and can wear less makeup when I've got a nice dark tan going. It also makes my teeth look whiter!

Speaking of white teeth, my other favorite fake-it product is Crest Whitestrips. Currently, I'm using the 3D White 2-Hour Express but want to try the Intensive Professional Effects next.

One last "fake-it" I love to use when I can afford it is LiLash eyelash growth serum. If you've been reading my blog for a while now, you know I saw dramatic results and my before/after photos were undeniable. I LOVE this product and am anxious to start my LiLash routine again.