Competitors need a tan?

[DanceMentor]

It seems almost a necessity for competitors to have a tan. When you see someone who is not tan, they stick out like a sore thumb.

What do you think about this?

What do you do to make sure you are dark?

[pygmalion]

Actually, I've got the dark enough issue covered, no tan-in-a-bottle required! :lol:

But yes, as a rule, competitors do need that fake tan. Just make sure it's not too orange. Yuck!

As a matter of interest, Corky Ballas mentioned the need for a good tan on the "Judge's View" video. Incidentally, that video is worth a watch, if you want to compete. Very interesting to hear several ballroom judges talk about what they look for in competitive dancers. Every single one mentioned dancing with the music. Like, duh! But I guess it must be an issue.

[pygmalion]

Just out of curiosity, where did all this fake stuff start anyway? I can see why women's makeup is of theatrical proportions -- so you can see them and their facial expressions from a distance. But why does everybody have to be brown, when so few ballroom competitors are naturally brown? Why not just be white or whatever color you naturally are? Who started all this stuff, anyway?

[DanceMentor]

I think it has do do with the lighting. Usually, there is an intense amout of light on the competitors, causing them to look more washed out than normal.

[SwinginBoo]

Just out of curiosity, where did all this fake stuff start anyway? I can see why women's makeup is of theatrical proportions -- so you can see them and their facial expressions from a distance. But why does everybody have to be brown, when so few ballroom competitors are naturally brown? Why not just be white or whatever color you naturally are? Who started all this stuff, anyway?

You got me :? ? I don't understand why everyone needs to be tanned, like it's the greatest thing since sliced bread. What has the color of your skin got to do with your ability to dance?

[DanceMentor]

You got me ? I don't understand why everyone needs to be tanned, like it's the greatest thing since sliced bread. What has the color of your skin got to do with your ability to dance?

My favorite bread is called Hemp bread. It's in the health food section. Every slice is loaded with protein and fiber.

That's one thing I like about swing dancers. They don't worry about things like this. They just dance.

[Vince A]

Just out of curiosity, where did all this fake stuff start anyway? I can see why women's makeup is of theatrical proportions -- so you can see them and their facial expressions from a distance. But why does everybody have to be brown, when so few ballroom competitors are naturally brown? Why not just be white or whatever color you naturally are? Who started all this stuff, anyway?
Jenn,
Now why did I know you'd be the first to answer this???

I'm Italian, kinda of olive-toned skin, but for the life of me, I've never ever heard of "getting a tan for competition." I certainly-absolutely-even though we have a pool in the back yard - stay out of the sun!

I've won competitions w/o tanning, so is it just the ballroom people that do this? The ballroom comps that I've been to . . . all the top dancers appear to have a tan!

[DanceMentor]

I have one of those complexions that does not get tan easily. I've never gone to extremes to get a tan, but I've never won a major event either. I'm wondering if it make THAT big of a difference. I also wonder about the color of the clothes you wear. Would wearing black vs. white make a difference as far as contrast with the skin color?

[pygmalion]

I've won competitions w/o tanning, so is it just the ballroom people that do this? The ballroom comps that I've been to . . . all the top dancers appear to have a tan!

I don't know if it's just ballroom people, but I'll tell ya, I found that judge's view video to be so enlightening. Totally amazing to me how many superficial things were mentioned. Things like manicures, and costumes, and hair, and tans. Like what does that have to do with dancing? :? But most of the judges mentioned it. Can't figure it out myself.

[Vince A]

Come to think of it . . . I cannot ever recall seeing someone who competed that looked frumpy - costume (any aspect of), unshined or dirty shoes, messy hair - ever win. It was always someone who had their self together, but neither gender, nor size, nor skin color had anything to do with them winning, or as a matter of fact, losing.

[pygmalion]

That's true. It's like a job interview. Poor grooming will eliminate you right away. But once you get past that, you have to bring and sell your skills, right? So same thing with dance competition (I hope :? ). You bring the total good-looking package so that you don't get eliminated, but hopefully it's your skills that win or lose for you. Please tell me this is how it is, Vince (or others).

[Vince A]

It's true. It's the whole package, and you can be judged from the moment you step out on the floor. So, be on your toes! Never ever give anything less than the biggest smile you can muster up! Turn the nervousness into energy!

Remember those things that I gave you a while back.

"You know what to do . . . as Dr. Laura says . . . now go do it!

[smoothdancingirl]

The reason many tan is so they don't look pasty on the floor. Usually it's the Latin or Rhythm competitors that have those dark tans. Personally I feel more comfortable wearing a skimpy latin costume if I'm tan. Much like wearing a bikini in the summer. I think it's kind of gross to pasty white legs dancing around in front of you. Plus it also hides skin flaws like broken blood vessels and bruises which are pretty commmon with the lady dancers. If your just dancing smooth or standard and your costume covers you up you don't really need to tan if you have healthy color to your face. Remember PASTY IS OUT!!! :lol:

[pygmalion]

I hadn't thought about the Latin/standard difference. But you're right. I've seen many photos of standard dance competitors looking quite white! :D The Latin dancers are always brown. (Or orange, if the tanning solution didn't work right :lol: )

[MissAlyssa]

I highly suggest the Mystic Tanning spray on tan booth. It gives an even golden brown (not orangy) color in seconds. It washes off in about a week and a half so if you only tan for comps you can get rid of it easily. I like the look of tans, and I also believe it has something to do with not being washed out. The competitive dance world is sad to say, very vain. much like the modeling and acting world.

[Larinda McRaven]

http://www.connecticutballroom.com/2003_04_Dancers_R1_24A.jpg

Here is what I look like normally. I am very pale. Steve calls me "see-through". I prefer to not have to tan...I swore I would never tan...I hate tanning from a bottle (smelly,messy,ruins sheets and clothes,look weird at grocery store...) but it is impossible for me to tan naturally.

http://www.connecticutballroom.com/Heritage_2003-2.jpg http://www.connecticutballroom.com/Lorensy1-2003-2.jpg

So I use ProTan. And when I use it I actually look fine on the comp floor. You can actually see the muscle definition in my back and arms and legs. Which is why the bodybuilders always tan to impossible darkness. The shadows on the skin actually show up and help define the muscles. Without a tan the light just bounces and reflects in the valleys creating a very smooth non-muscular (pasty) apperance.



So for a few comps this summer I decided to brave the beast and go sans tan.

http://www.connecticutballroom.com/maryland_2003_-3.jpg

UUGGH...I look horrible...I actually glow. I learned my lesson and began tanning as soon as I saw this picture.

[pygmalion]

Actually, I think you like quite nice with or without a tan, but, looking at your competition photo, can see why you choose to tan. You do look healthier.

It's an interesting point you make about muscle definition. I hadn't thought about that before, but it makes sense. And the muscle definition in your back definitely does show with your pro-tan on.

Hmm. Food for thought. Thanks. :D


Jenn

[pygmalion]

See? I did think about it. Is showing off muscle definition and body movement why Latin costumes are so skimpy? Anyone have a thought on this?

[dolceamore]

i am pale as pale can be lol. and i always wondered why you had to be tan. coaches and other dancers told me that, well, when you think of latin dances like cha cha ,samba, rumba, etc. you think of latin girls and guys with dark skin, like in brazil with the samba. i guess latin dancers are supposed to LOOK latin. it's all about acting on the floor. it's sexier to have a tan also. i personally HATE tanning. but you gotta do it.

what i dont uderstand is why standard people need tans. i dunno :?:

[ballroomboilergirl]

I agree totally on the "looking Latin" part, dolceamore. A lot of the more advanced people on my team tan like crazy, and many of them dye their hair dark brown or black :shock: Yes, it can get a bit nuts sometimes, which is sad because it seems like anymore a good dancer will be overlooked if they don't have the right "look". Which is why I really admire one of my coaches, the fabulous Dan Rutherford, who is one of the top american rhythm pros in the nation...you see, Dan is BLONDE. In Latin and Rhythm, this is almost taboo, as you can look at a competition floor and see that most of the competitors are either brunette or raven-haired. I remember him saying in an interview once that over the years, many people had encouraged him to dye his hair to "fit in" with the standard created for latin and rhythm dancers, but he refused, saying that he liked being blonde and that it made him stand out more. And now he is recognized worldwide as one of the best rhythm dancers. I guess it goes to show that looks don't dictate EVERYTHING in dancing...

[pygmalion]

I wondered about the hair color thing when I was watching faking it last week, and the young lady had her hair color changed. So what'e the deal with hair color anyway? One of my coaches, a ranked smooth competitor, has almost candy apple red hair. Is the hair color convention different for Latin than for smooth?

[SDsalsaguy]

A general rule seems to be to have a "positive" color -- i.e. black, blond, or red. Brown, apparently, seems to be considered too nondescript. This rule does seem to be more applicable to Latin though...

[pygmalion]

Yes! I'm going to dye my hair blond! :shock: Just kidding. I think I might consider black, though. That's a nice look, and a little more distinctive than my current brown.

Oh, the things dance competitors go through! :lol: :lol:

[cowpaste]

I highly suggest that none of you go to a tanning salon. The risks are just too great. Use those fake tan lotions. A bunch of people probably will say I'm just worring too much, but keep in mind that those cancers appear much later on in life. Tanning is like smoking for your skin. I've felt this way ever since my teacher in high school got skin cancer and had a huge chunk of skin removed from his arm. Trust me, white skin will always look better than no skin.

[dolceamore]

i TOTALLY agree with cowpaste. i love studying medical stuff and that's a major cause of skin cancer. SO DONT GO TO TANNING BEDS!

and yeah, i was told that "the look" for latin dancers is eaither Black or Blonde(almost white, like Olga Rodionovas hair)
so my coaches told me to dye my hair black, AND I DID. it looks better on the floor. i dunno why. :?: :D

[Porfirio Landeros]

what i dont uderstand is why standard people need tans. i dunno :?:

You don't know why? Okay, well, here's at least one reason I can think of from personal epxerience:

So the audience can see where your white collar ends and your skin begins

I guess another good reason to be tan in standard is so that the judges think you're Italian and mark you higher ;)

[samba ajr]

I guess another good reason to be tan in standard is so that the judges think you're Italian and mark you higher
:lol: :lol:

I was wondering about the rhythm/smooth problem myself. I did add a little bottled color for my last comp (not much, I chickened out). You know, my rhythm dress had sleeves, but my smooth gown didn't--so I actually needed it more for the gown. I'm very pale and if you show any bit of skin, a tan just looks more healthy--at least under the lights!!

(I'm going back to check my pictures to see if I created any ghostly images). By the way, my pro partner is Peruvian--we create quite a contrast!

[Sagitta]

I wondered about the hair color thing when I was watching faking it last week, and the young lady had her hair color changed. So what'e the deal with hair color anyway?

While I can understand the arguments for skin color tanning, such as increased muscular definition, and fighting the harsh lights, I don't see any other such sensible arguments being made for hair color change!! I'm completely against dying your hair to "fit in"!! I didn't like how the young lady, Joe, in "Faking It" looked after getting her hair dyed. Yuck. I guess I'm lucky that I'm one of the brown people so don't have to think about such things. :)

[twodance]

When you place in the finals of any comp. all of you are good enough to be there. The judges have to find a way to place each couple. Even if it means judging their costumes, hair or any other grooming flaws. Most of us professional competitors use 'Pro Tan'. It dosen't look orange and lasts for weeks.

[ballroomboilergirl]

Alright, all this talk of skin color and hair color got me thinking even more specifically about appearance, and now I'm beginning to wonder: what type of hair LENGTH works best for competitive dancing? Is it easier for women to have long hair that they can pull back, or short hair that can be neatly gelled into place? Should guys have neatly gelled hair, or should they grow it out to look more "Latin"? I am a bit curious myself, as I have a bit longer than chin-length hair and some people on my team have been encouraging me to grow it out or cut it REALLY short. What do you all think?

[pygmalion]

Everybody I've seen has either a short, short bob, or long hair arranged in some sort of bun. I'm sure there are other alternatives, I just haven't seen many others.

[Porfirio Landeros]

Should guys have neatly gelled hair, or should they grow it out to look more "Latin"?

Hmmm, that does depend which styles a guy is participating in...

This, as with all the other points in this thread, matters to some judges, while others could care less.

My coach, who is a judge, too, does not like my hair long enough in the back to touch the collar of a dress shirt (for smooth and standard). But for Latin, she has a male student that has a pony tail.

If you're doing both styles, then you probably have to lean more toward a conservative Standard look.

Bottom line, as long as it's neat, I think you can get away with a lot more, if it fits the personality of your dancing.

I've seen guys getting away with longer sideburns, but gotees and mustaches are pretty rare (I've competed with a gotee only once).

I guess I'm a contradiction, because even though I'm Latino, I would probably have to modify my appearance to look more "Latin" considering the trends in Latin dancesport.

[pygmalion]

I can relate, Porfirio. You'll never know how many people told me I wasn't "Black enough," whatever that means. :x


That said, how would you chage your look to look more Latin? Skin color? hair color? Costumes?

It really matters to us pretenders. :shock: :lol:

[Porfirio Landeros]

That said, how would you chage your look to look more Latin? Skin color? hair color? Costumes?

Yeah, I'd have to to be tanner for sure. Hair a bit longer and gel'd all messy. Then, a very tight shirt, that could very well be purchase from Forever 21 ;)

I should be entering Cumbia contests... not BALLROOM :!:

[ricodancer]

Isn't it interesting that only competition ballroom dancers and competition bodybuilders do the fake tan thing. Perhaps there is a narcissistic connection. Myself, being a nightowl, I have to settle for a fake moon-tan.

[SDsalsaguy]

Perhaps there is a narcissistic connection.
Or perhaps not? Very few, if any, ballroom dancers seem to actually like this aspect of competitive dancing...

[DancingMommy]

I can relate, Porfirio. You'll never know how many people told me I wasn't "Black enough," whatever that means. :x

It's probably their way of saying "sistah you ain't got no soul"......

Not that that's true mind you.......... But at least they aren't saing you are "too white"..... 8)

[pygmalion]

I've heard that one before too, and I just don't care. The whole ballroom thing is something that many of my friends don't get. To some of them, I should be out shaking it in a club. (Which I do, from time to time.) But they just don't understand why ballroom is the life for me, so I don't bother to try to explain. I just do it, because it makes me happy.

[Vince A]

I personally think that all of you are barking up hte wrong tree . . . unless, you only have competing to always win in mind.

Is that what this thread is all about? I jumped in at the end because it peaked my interest about some research that I'm doing . . .

[DancingMommy]

I've heard that one before too, and I just don't care. The whole ballroom thing is something that many of my friends don't get. To some of them, I should be out shaking it in a club. (Which I do, from time to time.) But they just don't understand why ballroom is the life for me, so I don't bother to try to explain. I just do it, because it makes me happy.

When I was in high school, the big t-shirt slogan was "it's a black thang, you wouldn't understand".... I think that dates me a bit because the term "african American had not quite hit Atlanta yet... LOL

I always found that type of statement revolting, but I've adapted it for my own use at times with Ballroom-haters, teeheehee...

"It's a Ballroom thang.... You wouldn't understand!" 8)

[pygmalion]

Vince. This thread originally started out as advertised. Do competitors need to wear a tan? Meaning, tanning salons or that fake tan in a bottle stuff. Speaking of which, I know of only one main product that is used -- pro tan. Are there others? What, if any are the down sides or side effects of tanning, in a bottle or out? On the competition floor, or off?

[Porfirio Landeros]

BananaBoat spray on works great for my face...

What are the downsides of using tanning products? The staining it does to your costuming. If you want to see some serious ring around the collar, look in my dress shirt after a comp. I have also witnessed what the tanning products do to the insides of ballgowns, but as long as it stays in the lining, I guess it's okay.

I'd much rather do my laundry more often than run the risk of skin cancer from getting a UV tan.

Also, I'm only tan for when I need to be... I don't have to look like leather at the office, although, maybe it'll help me get that promotion ;-)

[LauraB]

Bain du Soleil and Banana Boat are among my faves from the bottle. I have to start tanning about 5 days before a comp, because I am so incredibly pale. I do about 3 applications a day, each day, until I get to the comp, when I'll only need one a day, at night, then I'll shower in the morning. You have to shower between application and getting dressed up, or you'll stain your dress/shirt. Don't use an instant bronzer and expect that to be enough, or stay on. Not only will it come off on your clothes, but as soon as you sweat, it will start streaking.

[LauraB]

Of course, if you use the pro airbrush stuff, so much less hassle, it's darker, and it stays on longer!

[Vince A]

Vince. This thread originally started out as advertised. Do competitors need to wear a tan? Meaning, tanning salons or that fake tan in a bottle stuff. Speaking of which, I know of only one main product that is used -- pro tan. Are there others? What, if any are the down sides or side effects of tanning, in a bottle or out? On the competition floor, or off?
Thanks Jenn . . . its obvious that I didn't go back to the beginning and start reading. We do have a pool, and I'm out there quite regulary, however, after having a three-inch section of the right side of my face removed for skin cancer a year ago, my face gets zero sun on it. The rest of me does, and I do use a self-tanning lotion on my face . . . made by Neutragena!

By the way . . . I know a quite a few body builders that use canathaxathin pills . . . I have no idea if it is spelled correctly or not, but at I attempted t sound it out for these interested parties. The pills do provide a wonderful natural-looking tan, but are quite expensive!

[pygmalion]

Pills? To tan? I'll have to google that and see if I can get some info. Sounds cool. Hmm.

[Vince A]

Yes . . . and the spelling of the product is a guess . . . widely advertised in body building magazines . . .

[SDsalsaguy]

Other products, like ProfiTan and Super Braun are regularly used, as is the new Mystic Tan process available at some tanning salons...

[superbimmer]

Don't even get me going on this one! I'm a hairdresser, so I have plenty of opinions ... perhaps best kept to myself. All I can say is that I see plenty of bad hair and bad tans, on the floor (& bad costumes). At the very least, there are dancers who could use some better direction.

Peace!

[pygmalion]

Oh no. I have to get you started. What is bad hair on the floor? What does it look like? and how about a bad tan? Is there such a thing as too much tan? And how about tans for Black people like myself? I can look pretty washed out under the lights myself, Black or not. Should I tan too? Talk to me about this superbimmer. I'm dying to know.

[superbimmer]

"What is bad hair on the floor? What does it look like?"

*****Bad hair ... you know it when you see it! It screams "bad hair" ... it gets in the way of the dancers line ... it distracts from the overall look ... it's over-done, or under-done. It's actually easier to describe GOOD HAIR ... hair that flatters the dancer, extends the line of the body, and compliments the total impression. Hair should not be the first thing you see, or the last! It's like a frame on a great painting ... it can be impressive, but not more so than the image it surrounds. Often, simplicity is the best guide ... hairstyles can be as individualistic as the dancers who wear them. Hairstyles must also be appropriate to the hair itself, just as much as the dancer. Don't attempt to make the hair do something it can't do well.

"and how about a bad tan? Is there such a thing as too much tan? And how about tans for Black people like myself? I can look pretty washed out under the lights myself, Black or not. Should I tan too?"

*****Bad tan ... same answer as above (almost) If it says TAN, then it's bad! If it drips down the body with perspiration, then it really bad!! If it try's to make a blue-eyed Scandinavian, look like a Latino, it's probably bad. Tanning preparations are an extension of one's makeup ... and good make-up should look like it isn't there at all. It should enhance the body, and bring out the strength of features, while looking invisible. Black actresses, and dancers definitely wear makeup, perhaps differently than whites, but the rules are the same ... to flatter the individual. In some case, a black dancer probably should use body makeup, judiciously.

By the way ... I often hear dancers comment about how they look under the lights. Have they analyzed the difference between a photographers flash (which really washes you out!), and the ballroom lighting, which is usually very diffused (seldom stage lighting) Pictures I'm shown are frequently taken by the official photographer, who captures the image as the couple dances ... usually close up, with a flash. This isn't portrait lighting, and can over-light the subject ... giving a washed out, flat look.

My advice to any serious, competitive couple ... enlist the services of a skilled professional to help "design" your look. It's as important to the total impression, as is the costuming ... and dancers routinely spend $$$ on their clothing. Spend some of that on hair & make-up. Also, be careful of some of the "competition stylists" ... I think a few of them are part of the problem. Boy am I in trouble now!!

ps - let me throw in a disclaimer ... there are ALWAYS exceptions. One of the first things I teach young hairdressers is never say never! That is why I strongly recommend consulting an expert ... every person is different, so their stage look must be designed individually!

[superbimmer]

hmmm ... I just reread my post. Am I full of it, or what!? Oh well, I told you I probably should keep it to myself :-D

Tough subject to discuss quickly ... online. Best done in person, while referring to individual specifics.

[Porfirio Landeros]

"What is bad hair on the floor? What does it look like?"
*****Bad hair ... you know it when you see it! It screams "bad hair"

Also bad hair piece! You'll see older gentlemen with a jet-black hair piece when they maybe should have picked one with some "salt n' peppa" in it. Well, maybe this is because they're using their original one from their late 30's.

The other thing is bad paint jobs on men's heads. Just as the tan can run, I've seen the "paint" run off the scalp as the guys sweat.

If Pierre Allaire (Canada) could be a returning champion on Championship Ballroom Dancing on PBS for all those years with a balding head and a mustache, why can't other guys just go "natural". :?:

[pygmalion]

That is hilarious, Porfirio. :lol: :lol: Running paint? I've never seen it, but you can bet I'll be looking for it now. :lol:

btw, Pierre Allaire is teaching at the second BYU dance camp. Intimidating, to say the least, but I'd love to get into one of his classes.

[SDsalsaguy]

btw, Pierre Allaire is teaching at the second BYU dance camp. Intimidating, to say the least, but I'd love to get into one of his classes.
He's a puusycat Jenn, don't sweat it (I took his Advanced I cha cha at the BYU camp summer before last).

[Larinda McRaven]

okay, so I am willing to try anything, but when I find somethig I like it is very hard to make me switch.

BUT, I finally tried the Mystic Tan. And I LOVE IT. I was so skeptical, but so far it is the best/easiest tanning I have found.

I went yesterday evening completely snow white, and woke up this morning about as dark as three coats of Pro-Tan. But without the hassle of applying it and spilling it on my living room carpet, begging Steve to do my back, missed spots around my ankles and backs of arms, ruining clothes and sheets, black elbows, and going to work freshly painted and running brown sweat when I practice or teach.

I did pay the extra 5 dollars to get the dark setting, bypassing light and medium altogether. It was rather hard to convince the lady that I really did know what I was getting into, and yes I know that I will look a little freaky.

My only question will be to see how it fades. If it fades like protan I am not sure what to do, since the mystic tan is an all or nothing proposition. There is no way to "spot fix" the areas that need it and avoid the areas that don't.

[pygmalion]

Mystic tan? I'll have to google it.

I was looking at my comp videos and photos the other day, and I actually look kind of washed out next to some pro-tanned "white" people. :shock: I wonder if Black people use that tanning stuff too. Hmm. I know a girl who's big into the college comp circuit. I think I'll ask her. She'll probably look at me like I'm nuts. :lol: :lol:

[pygmalion]

Okay. google accomplished. Mystic tan is spray-on tan in a booth. It looks pretty cool, and quite safe. They use DHA, which has been approved and in use in bottled tanning lotion for years.

Mystic tan has a nice website that answers lots of questions. :D

[Larinda McRaven]

there is the "Mystic Tan" and also "Mist on Tan". They seem to be essentially the same thing, just different makers.

[DancingMommy]

Everybody I've seen has either a short, short bob, or long hair arranged in some sort of bun. I'm sure there are other alternatives, I just haven't seen many others.

Clip-on hair!!!!! Of which I'm the queen. My hair is medium length, but I sitk it in a bun and slap on a hair pouf with about a zillion pins. ;)

My hair is fairly unruly and wouldn't stay "neatly gelled in place" on a dare......

[DancingMommy]

Mystic tan? I'll have to google it.

I was looking at my comp videos and photos the other day, and I actually look kind of washed out next to some pro-tanned "white" people. :shock: I wonder if Black people use that tanning stuff too. Hmm. I know a girl who's big into the college comp circuit. I think I'll ask her. She'll probably look at me like I'm nuts. :lol: :lol:

Call me stupid, but I just realized you were Black. If it were me, I'd probably check into some makeup that's a wee bit darker than your skin tone. I forget which cosmetic comany has a line of darker shades, but there's one at the department stores that has a good coverage (Dermablend, I think) that would probably work way much better than tanning solution for you. And it "comes off" easier..... I don't tan at all. ICK! I look horrid with a fake-o tan. And I'm as pasty as I can be under the lights! I just go 2-3 shades darker on my face, LOL!

[pygmalion]

Yeah. Dermablend is good stuff. It will cover anything. And it won't sweat off. It's not water soluble, but it comes right off with the dermablend makeup remover soluntion.

[_ruskitantzor_]

i think you are right beucase when you are tan yuo look better. also when your white the only way the judges see you is bbucase :oh look a wtie speck on the floor".

[pygmalion]

He he! :lol: Even though I'm Black, I also look better tanned -- I turn a nice red/brown color that shows up better under the lights.

[pygmalion]

Looks like Mystic Tan was the recommendation, mamboqueen. :wink: A spray-on salon tanning treatment. Hmm. :wink: :D

[mamboqueen]

Well, I've done a spray-on once and I don't remember it being called "Mystic Tan", but I'll probably do that the day before the comp. I will say, I'm glad I tried it once because I essentially had black feet and the rest of me was pretty evenly tanned. This time, I'll put some lotion on my feet so I don't look funny.

the one thing I noticed with it; my stomach looks horrible in my natural color, and I don't look quite as un-toned with the tan. I guess it "de-flabbifies" a little!

[mamboqueen]

Next time, I'll find a mystic tan place. I looked "okay" as far as the tan went; there were some blotchy areas, but I wasn't THAT dark to notice it.

I will say that there were one or two women who didn't opt for any skin darkening methods and they stood out like sore thumbs. One was particularly fair skinned and I just think her appearance would have changed dramatically with some color.

[Laura]

I'm a big fan of the "Estee' Lauder Sun" brand of fake tanner. It doesn't smell gross, and it gives me very natural results. The key, of course, is to try many different brands well before your competition so you can pick the one that works best for you.

As for why Latin and Rhythm dancers tan...aside from the issue of looking pasty in their costumes, there is this somewhat amusing sterotype of Latinos that has become the norm for dancers in these divisions. That's why you'll see some people dye their hair black and slather on the fake tan -- to look "more Latin". I don't know when this came into fashion, because if you look at very old (like Bill & Bobbie Irvine era) pictures of 10 dancers and Latin dancers, you'll see everyone looking whatever way they do naturally. The most amusing thing I ever heard was a judge's comment about a friend of mine whose family is from Nicaragua. He was born there, and lived there for the first part of his life. This guy, by virture of his ethnicity and where he was born, is definitely Latino. BUT, a judge told him "you don't look Latin enough."

Fashion changes...perhaps some day the styles will change again.

[mamboqueen]

I will try the products. I chuckled over some girls in the bathroom slathering each other down with large sponges and just laughed at what we go through for this process. I'm very fair skinned, so I'm not sure I could ever really look latin, but hey, maybe I'll goof around one weekend with some haircoloring. Maybe I'll even invest in some brown contacts! That's too much about your Nicaraguan friend.

[Laura]

When you go for a fake self-tanner, realize that you will have to do multiple coats to get "dark enough." You might have to do it every morning and night for three or four days before your comp.

The people who get REALLY dark use a paint-on stain, the same stuff that bodybuilders use. If you decide to go that route, buy it from a bodybuilding store rather than a ballroom store because it will be MUCH CHEAPER. A friend of mine saw Pro Tan on the web site for an online nutrition superstore and was amazed at how much less it cost than when she buys it at comps. And she was able to get all the vitamins and stuff she needed too...the site is netrition.com

[SDsalsaguy]

A friend of mine saw Pro Tan on the web site for an online nutrition superstore and was amazed at how much less it cost than when she buys it at comps. And she was able to get all the vitamins and stuff she needed too...the site is netrition.com
Good site... they have some good prices, tend to give discounts on more sizable orders, and are very prompt and reliable.

[mamboqueen]

This stuff doesn't wash off in the shower??

[Laura]

It does to some extent, so if you're applying multiple coats of a self-tanner over multiple days you need to be careful to not rub yourself when you shower and especially not when you dry yourself. You should also sleep in old nightclothes on old sheets, because sometimes there is staining.

If you use a paint-on body stain, like ProTan, you can paint it on the morning you compete, and then wash some of it off afterwards.

Supposedly the spray-on booth tanning systems, like Mystic Tan, are the best way to go because they aren't as messy and the results last longer. A place like that opened up down the street from me, and I'm tempted to try it before my next comp. If I do I'll let you know how it goes.

[pygmalion]

Laura, I'm so glad you joined DF. You bring a lot of practical experience to the table, and you don't mind sharing. Thanks. 8) :D

[Laura]

Don't be so glad...you might get sick of me posting all the time and wonder if I have a life. I do, it just involves a high-speed DSL, a laptop with a wireless network card, and the ability to type fast and pontificate on nearly any subject :-)

I like being here, though, and am so glad I stumbled across the place! So thank you! I feel warmly welcomed.

[SDsalsaguy]

Supposedly the spray-on booth tanning systems, like Mystic Tan, are the best way to go because they aren't as messy and the results last longer. A place like that opened up down the street from me, and I'm tempted to try it before my next comp. If I do I'll let you know how it goes.
I did the Mystic Tan thing for a comp back in March... not cheap, but it lived up to the hype! :D

[tasche]

Alot of the palces offer good deals for buy one get one half off and usually dont expect you to use the second one up straight away

[SDsalsaguy]

Yup, that's what we did... but used the second tan three days later to get an extra layer of color. I'll have to find a different place to do the same thing next time I guess...

[Sabor]

i know i'm posting a bit late here.. and read only the 1st page.. but about the issue of tan vs. no tan.. i say definitely tan..

the issue doesnt necessarily have to do with performance/competition.. actually it can be observed on a much more basic level .. that being.. things a person does to look better/or their relative best..

white and light skin tones are nice and everything.. yet .. relatively.. i think everyone in general will look better tanned... a tanned darker shade adds to aesthetic beauty, makes the body look more appealing, defined and vigorous/healthy.. and specifically.. at least to my eyes.. more attractive.. or for lack of a better word.. more presence is projected.. so, for competition its a plus.

[mamboqueen]

Hey - has anyone seen these tan wipe-on's? I was watching TV and this infomercial came on with what look like baby wipes that apply self-tanner. If you believe what they're showing you, they look pretty good. I think they were $30 for a 4-month supply. I'd be curious to know if anyone has tried them.

[Laura]

Someone I know tried them, but she didn't seem very impressed. I think they're fine for normal people but wouldn't get her dark enough for Latin.

[mamboqueen]

I'm chuckling...what do you mean by "normal people?"

[Laura]

By normal people I mean non-dancers!

[mamboqueen]

So, we're paying a lot of money to be abnormal. Kinda counter-intuitive, don't ya think??!!

[Laura]

Well, we could go into a big discussion about the levels of narcisissm needed to be a sucessful dancesport competitor, but to keep it simple: yeah, we do spend a lot of money to be abnormal. Fortunately we do it because we enjoy being special. It's not counter-intuitive at all: why be normal, like everyone else, when you can create your own world of excitement, achievement, and self-satisfaction through dance? Nothing wrong with that, even if it does get rather expensve :-)

[dave_aw]

Its purely practical - under lights on a comp floor you need to look a lot darker than in 'real life' to avoid looking washed out. Generally if it look normal off the floor then it'll look a little pale on the floor. I don't think its narcicism to give yourself a tan that is flaky when you go up close!

[Laura]

The fact that you bring up flakey tans proves my point :-) ...by the way, I'm not saying it's bad, just that a certain level of narcissism does exist. If it didn't, dancesport would look extremely different -- or perhaps might not even exist.

I just looked up the definition of narcissism and for the purposes of this discussion I mostly mean the following: "4. The attribute of the human psyche charactized by admiration of oneself but within normal limits."

The full definition is:
1. Excessive love or admiration of oneself. See Synonyms at conceit.
2. A psychological condition characterized by self-preoccupation, lack of empathy, and unconscious deficits in self-esteem.
3. Erotic pleasure derived from contemplation or admiration of one's own body or self, especially as a fixation on or a regression to an infantile stage of development.
4. The attribute of the human psyche charactized by admiration of oneself but within normal limits.

However, I have seen elements of 1 and 2 in various dancers at various times.

I'm not going to go near number three.

[Genesius Redux]

I agree with dave. It is purely practical. You look washed out under the theatre lights if you're not dark enough. It's either a tan or full body makeup for most ladies.

Now, I'm not going to a competition anytime soon. And I'm working on my tan by lying out at the pool every day. That's narcissism.

(Every now and then I creep to the edge of the pool to gaze at this fascinating watery creature--who seems to like me!)

[Betsy531]

I've used the tan booths and they work pretty well but I recently purchased the Jet Tan home airbrush. I was skeptical but it works great! :D One coat would probably not be dark enough for competition but it is darker than what I got from the booth. The tanning solution is fairly expensive (but not outrageous) but once you do a coat or to with the airbrush you can put a few layers of a cheap drug store brand on without having to worry about missing spots or blending as much on hands and feet.
The airbrush tool itself is only about $70-80 and after that you just have to buy the tanning solution, and the initial kit that comes with the tool has a large bottle of tanning solution as well as the barrier cream to protect nails, palms, etc. from tanning.
I should also note that I am extremely pail and I do not tan in the sun (just burn!) but this still gives me a great tan with a natural looking color. And if you don't compete (I don't yet) one coat looks like a great natural tan for every day.
I got mine from HSN but they now have an infomercial and a web site (I think it's jettanning.com)

[Pacion]

(Every now and then I creep to the edge of the pool to gaze at this fascinating watery creature--who seems to like me!)

:nope: now why don't I believe you? :lol:

white and light skin tones are nice and everything.. yet .. relatively.. i think everyone in general will look better tanned... a tanned darker shade adds to aesthetic beauty, makes the body look more appealing, defined and vigorous/healthy.. and specifically.. at least to my eyes.. more attractive.. or for lack of a better word.. more presence is projected.. so, for competition its a plus.

No 'english rose' for you then :wink:

[mamboqueen]

i think everyone in general will look better tanne...

I agree to an extent; I have a couple of friends who are on the verge of looking like leather bags, though. There is such a thing as "too much" tan.

For me, my stomache muscles were pretty much shot after having 2 kids, so while I'm not plump there or anything, having a little color on my stomache definitely makes it look a tad less soft. Maybe with enough coats, I'll get to a 12-pack *LOL

[Sania]

okay, so I am willing to try anything, but when I find somethig I like it is very hard to make me switch.

BUT, I finally tried the Mystic Tan. And I LOVE IT. I was so skeptical, but so far it is the best/easiest tanning I have found.

I went yesterday evening completely snow white, and woke up this morning about as dark as three coats of Pro-Tan. But without the hassle of applying it and spilling it on my living room carpet, begging Steve to do my back, missed spots around my ankles and backs of arms, ruining clothes and sheets, black elbows, and going to work freshly painted and running brown sweat when I practice or teach.

I did pay the extra 5 dollars to get the dark setting, bypassing light and medium altogether. It was rather hard to convince the lady that I really did know what I was getting into, and yes I know that I will look a little freaky.

My only question will be to see how it fades. If it fades like protan I am not sure what to do, since the mystic tan is an all or nothing proposition. There is no way to "spot fix" the areas that need it and avoid the areas that don't.

Larinda, you should be able to touch up with Super Braun - it's basically the same thing in a bottle, not a spray. They sell a little sponge for application - I definitely recommend this so you don't get it on your hands and can blend it in better. You can also buy little containers of extra DHA to pump up the Super Braun for a darker color. My face always fades more quickly than any other part of my body, so I re-do it two or three times while the rest of the tan is slowy fading.

I tried the Mystic Tan once - almost froze to death when that cold spray came on, and (the annoying part) didn't get even as dark as one application of Super Braun makes me. I told them dark - perhaps they weren't listening! While I could appreciate the convenience (if it had worked for me), it cost almost as much as an entire bottle of Super Braun, which normally lasts me for 2 - 3 comps (about 6 applications or more).

For those who are interested in trying Super Braun, here's the drill:

1. the morning before the application, exfoliate knees, elbows, feet, and hands with a washcloth in the shower.

2. That night, apply a heavy duty hand cream to elbows, knees, feet, and hands. Put cuticle oil on your nails. (I suspect that a silicone hair shine product blended with hand lotion might also work well as a shield - that's what's in Mystic Tan's barrier cream, but I haven't tried it yet.) Then apply Super Braun with a sponge (I put it on all over, because I don't like to see any white patches when I'm undressed). It has a washable color built in so you can see where you are putting it.

3. Let it dry for about 5-10 minutes, then put on your pajamas and go to bed. It has never stained my sheets for me - it always comes out in the laundry.

4. The next morning, shower off and get dressed as normal.

Depending on how pale you are, you may need to repeat this. I'm very pale, so I do two to three applications before a comp.

The closest off the shelf product I've seen is the Neutrogena Instant Bronze, but it doesn't get me dark enough for competition.

Sania

[pygmalion]

Thanks, Sania. That sounds really doable, and fairly reasonably priced. 8) :D

[mamboqueen]

Well, like Larinda, I went in and asked for the full-blown tan at the Mystic Tan place. I did it about 4 hours ago and while I'm definitely darker, I'm not sure I'm as dark as I "should be" for competition purposes. And I did it a week ago, a Level 2, and it seemed to fade in about 4 days. I had one small spot that dripped, but it definitely came out a lot more even and smoother than the first place I tried. It's pretty uniform, except a small area around my ankles and my elbows. I'll put more cream on them next time. Maybe in a few more hours it'll look a little darker. At least I can now sit amongst my friends who all have their beach-going tans.

[Laura]

I'm seriously thinking of trying it, but I'm wondering how dark to go. I'm very pale (probably as pale as Larinda is naturally because I'm blonde with blue eyes). I'm dancing Smooth, but my dress has me pretty covered up. Any suggestions? Should I go for the 'natural' look so as to remove my pastyness? The thing is, I'm not actually pasty -- I'm pale but have very nice roses-and-cream skin tone. Maybe I should just leave well enough alone? I don't usually like to tan for Standard/Smooth unless I'm wearing a dress that shows a lot of skin, however an instant tan place opened up down the street from me and I'm curious to try it.

[tasche]

You could just get your arms and back done by an airbrush tan place. I ahve an airbrush machine for doing my makeup ( its lighter pressure than a regular compressor but it s apro one not ones of those qcv ones) I've tanned my legs with the DHA stuff and it comes out nicely. I would do my whole body if I could reach. I'm sure dh wouldn't be happy to do my back

[Sania]

I'm seriously thinking of trying it, but I'm wondering how dark to go. I'm very pale (probably as pale as Larinda is naturally because I'm blonde with blue eyes). I'm dancing Smooth, but my dress has me pretty covered up. Any suggestions? Should I go for the 'natural' look so as to remove my pastyness? The thing is, I'm not actually pasty -- I'm pale but have very nice roses-and-cream skin tone. Maybe I should just leave well enough alone? I don't usually like to tan for Standard/Smooth unless I'm wearing a dress that shows a lot of skin, however an instant tan place opened up down the street from me and I'm curious to try it.

Laura,

If it seems like fun, why not try it once? :) On the other hand, if you're happy without, that's fine too.

You and I have never met when I didn't have a tan, but I have very white skin off the floor, and I'm quite happy that way in real life - I'm a big fan of light skin on people who naturally are that way. :)

My personal take: I tan for competitions because it seems like a fun part of the whole ballroom experience (to clarify - the fun part is having not getting the tan, although as I've gotten more experienced with it, that's less and less effort) Part of what I enjoy about ballroom competition is that it's an intensification of experience - which for me includes the tan, the dramatic makeup, the glittery dresses, the physicality of dancing a lot in a short time, and the challenge of managing my own emotions so that I'm energized and optimized on the floor.

Tanning also makes me feel like a 'contendah' - just like putting on work clothes makes me feel focused and ready to work, becoming tan for a competition helps me feel ready to compete.

In my study of art history, however, I've been struck with the dramatic differences in aesthetic taste and in how people have presented themselves (for example in commissioned portraits) over the centuries, so I recognize that the general taste in the 21st century dance world for a ballroom tan is a very here and now thing. I think it all really comes down to personal choice and what makes you feel good.

I think it's also important to remember, for those of us that don't do this professionally, that this is supposed to be fun! If some aspect of it enhances your experience, go for it! If it stresses you out, then don't.

Sania

[pygmalion]

I'm sure dh wouldn't be happy to do my back

dh as in "da husband?" If so, just tell him it's part of the spousal job description and make him suffer. :twisted: :lol:

[mamboqueen]

I think it's "dear husband", although I'm sure there are plenty of adjectives you could use, depending on your mood at the moment!

Laura, you probably don't "need" to be really dark for smooth, but I think a little bit of color helps because of the lighting. I'd go for the middle level because I'm afraid you'd pay money and wouldn't get much of anything at a level 1. I'm very pale, which I generally like, but not in the summer when more skin is exposed.

I seem to be darker this morning, so I'm thinking a level 3 would probably be okay for me for a comp. I don't think any amount of tan is going to make me look latin, especially with blue eyes.

You know what's odd, though. I had the tan done at around 1 pm and went dancing last night around 8:30 pm. I have have some areas of lightness where my straps are on around my ankles. So, apparently it can come off with some pressure.

[Gumby]

That's been one of my problems with tan is that is will come off with a combination of sweat and pressure. When I do my legs/feet and later dance in closed toed shoes - I end up with nicely tanned legs and and a half moon of pink skin across the top of my foot. I have found though that I can touch this up with a cotton ball dipped in tan lotion. Use the cotton ball to swipe the area that rubbed off with tan lotion while you are getting ready for bed and it should ok by morning.

Question for those of you who use lotion rather than the mist on type - which I wasn't really thrilled with -- not enough tan for my buck - what brand of tanner do you use?

I have tried several brands and keep coming back to Coppertone - it gives me a good color (natural red head so I pratically glow in the dark without it) and reasonablly good coverage. But it takes sooo long to dry. I have recently tried the quicker drying foams but I found them a bit more streaky than the lotion and tooo drying for my face.

[mamboqueen]

Okay; I seemed to get darker the day after with the Mystic Tan. However, I now see very uneven areas on the back of my leg. I look like Michael Jackson during his "impetego" stage

I ordered the Super Braun and will give that a whirl. The problem I see with the Mystic Tan is that it goes on invisible, so you can't see where you might be uneven until it's pretty much too late. I don't want to *have* to do touch-ups with other stuff; I may as well just check out the other stuff.

[ACtenDance]

My partner uses Banaba Boat's Deep Dark Blend Sunless Tanning Creme. She always looks good for comps and it's much cheaper than Mystic Tan (which she doesn't think is worth the money) and other cremes. Might want to check it out.

[Larinda McRaven]

Hey Mamboqueen, yeah you definatley will see the tan the next day, not the day you get sprayed.

I have never seen any uneveness on myself, but maybe if it were on the back of me legs I just can't see it. Anyway I wear fishnets, so everything gets even out in the end...

Laura it is definately worth trying it for one comp. If you don't like it, then no harm or foul, but you would be tan for the one comp. I would prefer also just to be natural but that just isn't an option sometimes.

[Sabor]

not the day you get sprayed

get sprayed!? .. doesn't sound too friendly now does it? :lol:

[pygmalion]

Silly! :lol:

[Larinda McRaven]

always Silly Sabor!

[DancePoet]

Sabor:

I hadn't laughed tonight while reading through these threads. Then ... pow ... I read your "get sprayed" comment and totally lost it!

Thank you!

[Sabor]

LOL.. u r most welcome amigo..

:idea: new phrase on my t-shirt:

'Spray me Silly!' :P

[mamboqueen]

Sania,

I am experimenting with Super Braun this weekend. I put 2 applications on my face with the little pads they give you last night. Looks pretty good today, although for competition, I might do 3 like you. Today, I applied it to my body. Unfortunately, after two weeks, my mystic tan is still a little visible, mostly around the back of one leg and ankle. Ick.

My question is (and it's a dumb one, so feel free to burst out laughing at my expense!).....are there non or low-porous sponges? (okay, stop laughing now). I wouldn't enjoy losing a lot of expensive product in a sponge. I don't think the little pads are going to cut it for the entire body.

[Sania]

Sania,

I am experimenting with Super Braun this weekend. I put 2 applications on my face with the little pads they give you last night. Looks pretty good today, although for competition, I might do 3 like you. Today, I applied it to my body. Unfortunately, after two weeks, my mystic tan is still a little visible, mostly around the back of one leg and ankle. Ick.

My question is (and it's a dumb one, so feel free to burst out laughing at my expense!).....are there non or low-porous sponges? (okay, stop laughing now). I wouldn't enjoy losing a lot of expensive product in a sponge. I don't think the little pads are going to cut it for the entire body.

mamboqueen,

SuperBraun sells an applicator sponge which is really good because it has a more solid foam back that doesn't absorb any product, so you don't get it on your palms and finger tips. It usually costs about $5. It doesn't hold a huge amount of product, so there's not a lot of waste, plus you can 'pat out' the last little bit as you are evening up the application. The product goes on a lot faster using the sponge than using those tiny little pads, and it makes it a lot easier to reach your back, etc!

You can probably exfoliate off your mystic tan using a washcloth and bath gel...

good luck!

Sania

[Laura]

Oh damn, I have to start tanning too...the dress I haven't made yet is going to be black with black lace, and if I don't tan I'll look like a blonde zaftig Morticia Addams. Thanks for reminding me by reviving this thread!!

[mamboqueen]

Thanks Sania! I'll try to find the sponge. Or something like it. I'll definitely have to put some sort of blocking lotion on my feet. I look like my sister-in-law who is from Trinidad an about as dark as they get. Just my feet, though! The rest of me is holding up pretty well with the stuff.

Laura - I LMAO at your Morticia Adams comment. Let us know how the tanning works with you. I think anything in moderation will work well, especially in smooth as opposed to latin.

[Larinda McRaven]

Hey sorry the Mystic tan did not go too well for you. I guess everyone's skin responds very differently.

As for the applicator sponges you can also go to any home improvement store or even a craft store and get the applicator sponge there. It would be with the paint brushes. It looks just like a paint brush except for the dark gray sponge instaed of bristles.

[Sabor]

'To get sprayed or to get paint brushed?' .. that is the question http://www.click-smilies.de/sammlung0304/spezial/Fool/mpr.gif

[mamboqueen]

I think it all depends on *who* is doing the spraying/painting :D

Thanks for the tips on the brushes. I go to a craft store fairly regularly and will see if they have one. You know, if I could find one of those sponge thingies that has a tube that you fill with liquid soap, that might be another option. I used to have one. Not sure where I got it though. Maybe Linens 'N Things or something. That might actually be a good applicator!

As for the Mystic Tan, I think my greediness in going for a Level 3 (which is really too much for my skin tone) probably wasn't the brightest thing to do, but kind of what is needed for the competition. The level 2 looked pretty good for "everyday use", not that I can afford to keep this up on a regular basis.

[standardgirl]

I have a comp this Saturday, and I just got back from Mystic tanning about an hour ago. I asked for the darkest possible (level 3 I think). I can see that my face and my legs are getting tanned, but I don't see anything in my back. and since I am competing in standard, I don't really care about my legs (they are covered, anywayz for the most part), and I really need my back to tan. Should I get another Mystic Tanning tomorrow?

[mamboqueen]

Hi there! Funny...I got a Level 2 today! Level 3 is way too much for my complexion. You are darker than I am, though, ... but I don't think I'd go in for another Level 3. Your face will get darker than everything else (at least that's what I've noticed on me). Also, it takes several hours for it to really look its darkest. Can you get a bottle of something at the drugstore and have someone apply it to just your back?? Or, you could try to prevent your face from getting really dark by putting some of the blocking lotion on your face, but I don't think I'd be inclined to get it done twice in a row myself.

Good luck - and break a leg!

[standardgirl]

Maybe I will put somthing else on tonight, but I am just a bit lazy, and my mom is really bad at puting sunless lotion......The one time she did it....it took almost a whole night since she wasn't able to put it one evenly......

I am actually quite pile naturally, thought. Although I am not white, well I am Asian, I use the fairest shade of Estee Lauder powder, and foundation. I don't tan in sun, I just burn. Maybe my level 3 will become darker tonight? hopefully......

My face is quite dark already though, just not my body......I don't know why, I thought Mystic sprayed the solution all over?

[standardgirl]

Oh, one more thing....I have done airbrush, and sunless lotion (Netrogena, Loreal, Pro Tan, and Matas). But I have never gotten tan enough according to my standard......maybe it's just my skin. Before moving to the states, everyone thought I am so lucky because I don't tan, and Asians don't like to tan, they all want to be pile. My teacher did warm me not to get too tanned though.

I like airbrush the best! I wasn't able to make an appointment today, and that's why I tried Mystic.

[Laura]

Dang it...this thread just reminded me that I'm competing in about 22 hours and I haven't even started tanning yet. Ooops. I'm going cheap this time around: Banana Boat spray-on, applied every two hours. I can probably get three applications in before bedtime.

[randomMysh]

Good Luck Laura!!! Where's the comp?

[Laura]

San Francisco Open, which is actually held in Burlingame, CA.

I'm procrastinating like mad right now. I really despise tanning, especially since I dance Standard, but I can see the difference on the video and also in the comments people make about how K. & I are groomed. Ahh, the grooming thing. I'm not ready to stage a revolution about it, Macha, sorry. Someone else can lead that fight.

[chachachacat]

Is anyone else allergic to this tanning stuff?!?

I am! I used to do the tan bit when I competed, but the allergy progressed, frorom itchy nose and sneezing, all the way to hives,
and an itchy throat and eyse- that's when I had to quit cold turkey!

I got some leg-tanning makeup in London. No. 7 brand. It works okay, but I don't know about the sweat factor.

Has anyone else had this problem?
Is Mystic Tan based on the same tanning agent that's in everything else?
Any makeup-tannning tips ?

[Laura]

The magic ingredient in the self tanners is DHA. All brands use it. But they also put a lot of other stuff in there to moisturize, exfoliate, smell good, and god knows what else. So maybe it's the other stuff, or maybe it's the DHA.

[chachachacat]

I think it's the DHA. I've tried a LOT of different brands. :?

[Larinda McRaven]

I know someone that used just the DHA. You can buy little pots of it. This person mixes it with their favorite lotion. So if you have a lotion you know you can wear without a reaction, then you could try to add a little DHA powder and make your own self-tanner. If you break out with hives then... well we know the culprit. But I am pretty sure that DHA is just a "sugar" and probably less irritating than all of the fragrances, dyes, and preservatives that are found in most lotions.

[Merrylegs]

I've never had an allergic reaction to the tanning products but I saw something strange at a comp once.

The strange thing I saw once was a woman's skin turning BLACK in certain areas from the tanner. Her neck , back, stomach and the inside of her elbows were turning black from a reaction to the tanner. ICKY! I have only seen this once (thank God) and I doubt I'll forget it. It was like it was spreading over her body. Not sure if it was the sweat and the tanner mixing together or what...???

I always find it a little amusing to watch the pro Latin heats because the dancers start off a bit tan and by the final round when the Pro-Tan has kicked in they're really dark. It's a marked difference. I guess they wait until the last minute to apply the tanner, at least the last coat anyway.

The bad experience I had with the self tanner (I use Neutrogena DARK or Banana Boat) was with over tanning my hands. I kept using the top of my hands to check to see if my legs and back were dry so they received a lot of the lotion. OMG, it looked like I was wearing gloves! I went to CVS the next day and the cashier was whispering to her co-worker about me. I used the scrubby side of a sponge and Comet cleanser to get it off. Seriously, be careful.

I've pretty much mastered it now so no more "brown gloves" for me!!

I have seen men's tan "falling down" their faces during heats. That's gotta sting the eyes.

[pygmalion]

I've pretty much mastered it now so no more "brown gloves" for me!!

I have seen men's tan "falling down" their faces during heats. That's gotta sting the eyes.

:shock: Eww! It's really nice to be naturally brown. :lol: :lol:

[Laura]

I do an okay job with the tanner. The good news is that I'm very flexible and never have a problem doing my own back. The bad news is that I used the spray-on Banana Boat this time -- I sprayed it on in the shower so I wouldn't get it all over the bathroom, and of course I'd step in the overspray. So now the soles of my feet are SUPER BROWN. But I'll be wearing court shoes, so no one will see it :)

It was funny...I woke up yesterday morning as white as a sheet. I woke up this morning looking like I'd just gotten back from a week in the Caribbean. Except when I do go to the Caribbean (I'm taking mom in mid-April, in fact), I wear sun block all the time and so come back as white as usual anyway!

[pygmalion]

*giggle*

[Joe]

I do an okay job with the tanner. The good news is that I'm very flexible and never have a problem doing my own back. The bad news is that I used the spray-on Banana Boat this time -- I sprayed it on in the shower so I wouldn't get it all over the bathroom, and of course I'd step in the overspray. So now the soles of my feet are SUPER BROWN.
Hey, at least they're not Super Braun! ;)

[SDsalsaguy]

I do an okay job with the tanner. The good news is that I'm very flexible and never have a problem doing my own back. The bad news is that I used the spray-on Banana Boat this time -- I sprayed it on in the shower so I wouldn't get it all over the bathroom, and of course I'd step in the overspray. So now the soles of my feet are SUPER BROWN.
Hey, at least they're not Super Braun! ;)
:doh: *ouch*

[chachabelle]

I find I get the most even color from the Mystic. I turn my body in the booth to be sure and get my sides even too. Someone said their face always gets darker, but I can't seem to get much color on my face at all. I'm not wearing any kind of SPF in the booth either.

[standardgirl]

I did Mystic, level 3 (the darkest) for my last comp. I did get dark. I tanned at 3:00pm, and then I showered after waking up the next day. But most of tan went away after the shower...... :? and I wasn't dark (enough) anymore. I don't know, but I thought that you are supposed to shower before the comp, so that you won't get tanner all over your dress? or I shouldn't shower?

I have done the german brand tanner, Matas bafore. I like it a lot. They don't have the instant bronzer in it, so the tanner is actually white color like a lotion when you apply. They don't get on the clothes either since there is no bronzer, probably just the DHA that reacts with your skin. When I did it, I applied it every night for four days, and I was dark!

btw, I went UV tanning today for the first time! not for a comp, just for sun! but I didn't see any result yet....she told me that I need to do it at least 3 times to start seeing things.....

[Laura]

If you shower after doing the tanning, you can preserve your tan by just rinsing off. No soap, no scrubbing, except for the few bits that get a bit smellier than the others. And just pat yourself dry afterwards.

Which reminds me...I've got to start tanning AGAIN for this weekend....

[pygmalion]

Wow. A lot of comps lately, Laura. Excellent. 8)

[standardgirl]

Just this that I should share this with everyone, in cases someone else is thinking about trying it, too.

http://www.performancebrands.com/products/indoor/protan/pills/images/big_slim.jpg

This the the Tan Accelerator & Far Burner combined pill by Protan (protanusa.com). Sounds great, doesn't it? especially for ladies with a few extra pounds to lose. I took a pill this morning, about half an hour later, I got rash all over, starting from the hands. Then my entire body feels burn and itching really badly! I though I had an allergic reaction. Then I phoned my dad, who is a physician. I told him the ingredients of the pill. There is something called "Niacin" (some pills for treatment of high cholestrol have this ingredient, too), than Niacia will cause temporary redness, rash, and warmness (hot burning feel) to skin. It is only 50mg per pill, wihch is not much, and it is not a key/major ingredient, but it is definetly enough to cause the discomfort. But the bottom line is that Niacin does help the body to burn fat, and thus, it will probably produce a desire result over time, but you would have to experience the painful reaction every time. I don't think I will ever take that pill again.

[Laura]

Ah yes, the famed "niacin flush." I know that feeling well -- I used to date a guy who was basically a supplment freak and I'd take a niacin pill every morning and flush. You do adjust to it a bit over time, and if you take the pills with food it's not as bad either. I would only flush mildly, and kind of liked it in a weird way.

[tiadancer]

I went to the congress held just before the BYU Dancesport Championships last year where they have the judges teach classes. One of the female judges (I can't remember her name off the top of my head) taught a class entitled, "What judges are looking for vs. what we think they are looking for." It was very interesting! I was surprised that she did mention the element of tanning. She included it under the topic of looking the part. She said, and I agree, that dancing is a lot like acting and you really do dance and perform much better when you are fully "acting the part." I have naturally long nails and very long eye lashes, but I always wear fake nails and eyelashes when I compete because it makes me so much more aware of them (where my hands are and where my eyes are looking). I have competed both latin and standard and although I don't feel that having latin tan for standard is necessary I do like to have a healthy looking tan for that as well.
There is a local salon that for $65.00 will do a full body salt scrub, facial and lotion massage (the lotion is bronzer). It takes an hour and a half and feels so amazing! They do a really good job too, the color is always really evenly distributed and the massage isn't too deep so you aren't walking around sore the next day. It is a luxury I have only indulged in once, but I am already planning my next trip. :)

[mamboqueen]

Maybe we can all 'Niacin flush' before a comp instead of fake tanning :D

Tiadancer - that spa treament sounds truly delectable - of course, it would be a little expensive once I factored in the airfare!!

[Laura]

Mamboqueen, the niacin flush is red, it's not going to make you tan. I really don't understand why Pro Tan or whoever it was puts it in their products.

That scrub/bronzer/facial thing sounds fabulous. I'm taking my mom on a cruise later this month, and I know the spa on the ship offers it. Maybe I'll give it a try. That way I can come back from the Caribbean with a tan without ever having to stop wearing sunblock :)

[mamboqueen]

A cruise! Lucky girl :) What islands?? (sorry to digress...I just *love* cruises). I should have thought of that before my mother had the neck surgery from HE**. She's in no shape now, but it would be fun. Then again, I'd have to behave. :wink:

[Laura]

We're leaving from Tampa and stopping in Ocho Rios, Aruba, Curacao, and ending in San Juan. We went on a different one last year and had such a good time we're going to try to do one every year now.

[standardgirl]

Mamboqueen, the niacin flush is red, it's not going to make you tan. I really don't understand why Pro Tan or whoever it was puts it in their products.

Because they advertise the product as both Tan Accelerator and Fat Burner. Niacin helps you burn fat.......

[Laura]

I still think the combination of the two is a bit...odd...

"It's a tan accellerator!" / "It's a fat burner!"

"It's a dessert topping!" / "It's a floor wax!"

:)

[redhead]

Is it safe though?

[standardgirl]

I still think the combination of the two is a bit...odd...

"It's a tan accellerator!" / "It's a fat burner!"

"It's a dessert topping!" / "It's a floor wax!"

:)

Maybe because women like to tan and lose weight?? :lol:
makes it easier to sell?
no clue......

[swan]

So my new dress sponsor is prohibiting me to tan (might ruin the gown). I actually never bothered to tan. But I'm thinking about it...Does the Misty Tan 'run' & stick to the gown?

Advice please...

Thank goodness, I've got until June to worry about this (my first comp w/ the new partner :))

[standardgirl]

So my new dress sponsor is prohibiting me to tan (might ruin the gown). I actually never bothered to tan. But I'm thinking about it...Does the Misty Tan 'run' & stick to the gown?

Advice please...

Thank goodness, I've got until June to worry about this (my first comp w/ the new partner :))

I have used protan, matas, and other brands of self tanner. I showered everytime in the morning before the competition, and I generally still get some tanner stick on my dress.

I did Mystic tanning in a tanning salon at my last comp. I showered the morning before the competition. There wasn't any tanner in the dress except in the elbow area, but it was minimal. I am assuming that if I were to wear short sleeves or no sleeve instead of long sleeves, I would have been fine with no tanner on my dress.

[swan]

I did Mystic tanning in a tanning salon at my last comp. I showered the morning before the competition. There wasn't any tanner in the dress except in the elbow area, but it was minimal. I am assuming that if I were to wear short sleeves or no sleeve instead of long sleeves, I would have been fine with no tanner on my dress.

Thanks! I shall try that! All depends on what kind of design this sponsor comes up with, I may be so covered up that I don't have to worry about getting any tan...Can always 'tan' my face using a strong bronzer.

[standardgirl]

I am naturally really pale and white. I usually just burn under the sun in the summer, and then my skin will just "come off" and I will become pale again...ususally, I don't tan under the sun....

I have done UV tanning bed six times now (in a 2 week period). I burned twice because I tanned longer than suggested. I applied the after-sum smoothing spray from Body Shops the second time I got burn, and I recovered in two days (the first time, I just applied lotion, and it took 4 days for me to recover!). Anywaz, I am actually dark now! Woohoo! My teacher was dancing with me the other day during our lesson, and he just can't stop say "wow, you are tan!" This really works!

Oh, I guess, for normal people, you don't even need 6 visits to see result. For me, since I burn so easily, I was only able to tan 5 min at a time when I first started. Even now, I am still only able to tan 10 min. The other day I did 12 min, I got sun burn again.....

[Ms_Sunlight]

I wouldn't feel happy using a sunbed. The link between UV light and skin aging and cancer is well known. It's bottle tan all the way for me!

[Sabor]

every body can use a tan actually .. not just competitors..

i feel for those who are pale and get burned when going for a tan.. sorry for that.. but i'm sure there are ways around it..

'brown is the way to go.. unless u are alreadylucky like that'' :wink:

[mamboqueen]

I wouldn't necessarily say 'brown is the way to go'; it depends on your natural sKin tone. It looks unnatural on some people. I think a little healthy tan looks nice on everyone, but I have one friend who looks 10 years older than she is because she is so excessive about it. When you start to hit your 40's, the sun really starts to show it's damage. My friend is headed toward that leather pocketbook look. I have another good friend who is a sun worshipper, but not quite as bad, and has had to get pre-cancerous cells removed from her upper lip. She is more cautious now, but heck, I hear 'pre-cancer' and I'm probably out of the sun completely.

[SDsalsaguy]

I wouldn't feel happy using a sunbed. The link between UV light and skin aging and cancer is well known. It's bottle tan all the way for me!
Same here!

[labelledanseuse]

My skin is very pale, but I don't want to use all of that fake stuff. I think I'll try to get tan the old-fashioned way: sun bathing. I'm kind of paranoid about getting skin cancer, though. I haven't had a tan in about 2 years; I used to try to avoid the sun at all costs. But I guess if I wear a little sun block and lay out when the UV rays aren't so strong (before 10am and after 4pm) I'll be OK.

A few weeks ago, my instructor told me that my skin looks like the color of cheese. My mom told me that last summer, too (except she said that I looked like Feta cheese). :roll: I have a competition coming up in less than 2 months. If I stay out in the sun for a few hours a week til then, would that be OK? I really don't want to deal with sun-damaged skin when I get older. :?

[skwiggy]

You can try makeup too. It can be messy, but it can look just as good or better than a fake tan from a bottle. And there is no risk of damaging your skin. ;)

[spatten]

'brown is the way to go

Interestingly enough - if you travel to other parts of the world brown or tan is very commonplace. It is fair skin that is prized.

[SurfSalsa]

Brown is beautiful - and for me personally, black is even better!

But, with experience as an European from living under the harsh African sun, to damage your skin in the attempt to get a tan... definitely not worth it!

As for the topic - if you need a tan to compete, something horrible is wrong with the judging system! Colour or race or gender should have no influence when you compete. All should be fair in love, war and competition!

[standardgirl]

I think I heard something about UV tanning and skin cancer before. but the recent study said that they are not really linked together (A lady told from the studio who got skin cancer several times told me so.) She said that everytime she went to the hospital to get the skin cancer removed, all the people with skin cancer look the same - blue eyes, and blone hair. This makes me less worried! :D I guess UV and cancer can only be linked together if you do it excessively.......if it's not excesssive, I still think it's health. :D especially since I don't tan naturally. Going to tanning beds just help my skin build up the resistance, which is not a bad thing.. :D

[Chris Stratton]

Even short of cancer though, the UV exposure is probably prematurely aging your skin.

[Ms_Sunlight]

I have enough bad habits aging my skin without adding sun damage to the list.

The information is out there. A quick Google search on the terms "sun damage" brings up lots of information on sunbathing, sun beds and the like.

[Sabor]

well.. it seems that alot of people link a reasonable/measured exposure to the sun with ageing .. hmm.. the funny thing is u see.. never in my life have i met a pale/white skin person that doesn't look considerably older than those of darker shades

i think the key is doing it within reason and as per individual tolerance.. alot of that fear is just an effect of marketing bla bla so that the related cosmetic industries make more money.. some sun is good and healthy for skin.. i'm not saying burn yourself ..i'm saying tan which is acheivng a darker shade than u normally have by short regulated exposure to the sun over the medium term.. in time .. the color would be like permanent and natural.. u'll look much younger and better.. my personal view any way from what i've seen so far of people.

[Larinda McRaven]

whoa... a somber, nonflirty, well articulated post from Sabor! What's up sweety... are you not feeling well?

[Sabor]

naah cupcakes.. i was just playin serious.. i looked like this :x when i was writing reference post

[Joe]

There's a reason turning a cow's skin into leather is called "tanning." ;)

[mamboqueen]

in my life have i met a pale/white skin person that doesn't look considerably older than those of darker shades

This is true, in my opinion, for people who are naturally dark. I can almost never tell a black person's age, and if I guess, I am usually guessing low. In fact, I'm usually never even in the ballpark. They have much larger amounts of melanin in their skin and that protects them from sun damage.

But, a person who is white/pale will look older than they are if they have spent years worshipping the sun. It may look nice when they're young, but it most definitely catches up.

[/quote]

[Elizabeth]

well.. it seems that alot of people link a reasonable/measured exposure to the sun with ageing .. hmm.. the funny thing is u see.. never in my life have i met a pale/white skin person that doesn't look considerably older than those of darker shades

i think the key is doing it within reason and as per individual tolerance.. alot of that fear is just an effect of marketing bla bla so that the related cosmetic industries make more money.. some sun is good and healthy for skin.. i'm not saying burn yourself ..i'm saying tan which is acheivng a darker shade than u normally have by short regulated exposure to the sun over the medium term.. in time .. the color would be like permanent and natural.. u'll look much younger and better.. my personal view any way from what i've seen so far of people.

I have to disagree with you Sabor. Sun is just bad for your skin, and will age you.

I have a sister who is nearly four years younger than me. We have about the same skin tone naturally. She works out outside and gets the kind of regulated sun exposer that you are advocating. I, on the other hand am an nerd who avoids the sun as much as possible, and try to always wear a hat when I do have to be outside. By my sisters own admission, I look younger than she does, and she recognizes that he difference is sun exposure.

Sure, naturally dark people look pretty darn good. Part of that may be that they don't feel the need to sunbathe.

[Swingolder]

I saw a picture of a ballroom dancer, somewhere on df, I think, who had this beautifully made-up face, fair and pink cheeked. The rest of her body was dark tan. Didn't look like the face went with the body.

[mamboqueen]

Yeah, I remember someone posting a picture here of a latin dancer with really blonde hair and her skin was sooooooo brown...looked like she fell into a vat at the Crayola factory. There's a point where it looks ridiculous.

[randomMysh]

Swingolder, that might have been in the photography and the lights. Some makeup reflects light differently than unmadeup skin, so it looks way lighter than the rest of the body.

[Swingolder]

Swingolder, that might have been in the photography and the lights. Some makeup reflects light differently than unmadeup skin, so it looks way lighter than the rest of the body.

I suppose that could be true. But seeing the picture should remind anyone thinking of going for the really tan look to have second thoughts. It would have been such a beautiful picture without the color problem, her face was lovely, her gown was striking, her pose was incredible.

[andrewpueschel]

Tanning also helps to highlight muscle development in your body - simply put - when you are tan, your figure looks better. Pale skin will take away from your development and will fade your body out.

Happy Dancing!

[mamboqueen]

Question for you (and probably better on a make-up thread, but cannot find one after 5 minutes of searching).

What shade of foundation do you use on your face when you tan? I have used one that is a bit darker than what I would normally wear (not that I ever wear any), but I generally don't tan my face because of very sensitive skin issues. So I need to compensate with foundation and a bronzer. Maybe I should be matching my bronzer up to the tan color? I just never seem to get this right.

[fascination]

there is a nice deep beige in the loreal age defying line that stays on really well especially with powder...there is a caramel and a natural beige depending on how dark you get..I top it off with covergirl pressed powder

[mamboqueen]

there is a nice deep beige in the loreal age defying line that stays on really well especially with powder...there is a caramel and a natural beige depending on how dark you get..I top it off with covergirl pressed powder

nice; I can kill two birds with one stone. :) No problems with it coming off with sweat? And is this darker than what you would normally wear, if you wore foundation regularly? I'm trying to figure out how people might alter the color they would normally choose.

[fascination]

well...lol...unless I don't have a comp anywhere on the near horizon, I am dark....it is just a question of how drk...the caramel is me at my darkest the natural is probably you are your darkest...the buff is probably you now...

and I think it is safe to say that I sweat more than most men...I change my shirt on a lesson at least once....usually twice...I have sweat all of the stones off a gown...in other words...yes, it will hold

[chocolatchica]

Actually, I've got the dark enough issue covered, no tan-in-a-bottle required! :lol:

But yes, as a rule, competitors do need that fake tan. Just make sure it's not too orange. Yuck!

As a matter of interest, Corky Ballas mentioned the need for a good tan on the "Judge's View" video. Incidentally, that video is worth a watch, if you want to compete. Very interesting to hear several ballroom judges talk about what they look for in competitive dancers. Every single one mentioned dancing with the music. Like, duh! But I guess it must be an issue.
Is this video a DVD or online video? I'd love to watch it

[chocolatchica]

I actually read an article about how grooming and your look can affect your first impression that you set on the judge. It doesn't specify tanning but I'm sure it within the genre
Judge's Soap Talk (http://www.dancesportucr.com/resources/judge_soapbox_David-Hamilton.pdf)

[fascination]

note to self:...put hair up, even on rhythm day...dang...boo

[chocolatchica]

note to self:...put hair up, even on rhythm day...dang...boo
I know right? Haha. I was kind of bummed at that comment because I think some, and let me emphasize that SOME girl actually look good with their hair down and one of those heavily stoned headbands. Not everyone can pull it off but it can look good. But hey I'm not a judge so I think I'll just stick to having my hair up in the tightest bun possible as not to upset any judges.

[fascination]

well I like to wear the back of my hair down during rhythm, but I can see the point about it breaking the line

[chocolatchica]

Tanning also helps to highlight muscle development in your body - simply put - when you are tan, your figure looks better. Pale skin will take away from your development and will fade your body out.

Happy Dancing!
That is very true. Tanning can make you look more toned, defined, and slim. Not only that but it can accentuate your movements which is kind of important in dance.... lol. I never do sunbathing though. Its all about me and my fake tanning bottle:D Which reminds me, I'm almost out of tanner.
What I usually do to deter from having an overly exaggertaed tan on my face is use an instore subtle tanner and use the dark stuff like Sun Laboratories on my body. Once it start to com off it can get splotchy like any tanner and it does not look good at all on the face. Not only that if you mess up on your face it looks 10x's worst than if it were a leg or arm.

[Standarddancer]

What shade of foundation do you use on your face when you tan? I have used one that is a bit darker than what I would normally wear (not that I ever wear any), but I generally don't tan my face because of very sensitive skin issues. So I need to compensate with foundation and a bronzer. Maybe I should be matching my bronzer up to the tan color? I just never seem to get this right.

I use one shade darker than what I normally wear when tanned. I use stick foundation - Benefit stick foundation hopscotch, that's quite dark quite comparable with the superbrown I use on my neck.

[danceronice]

I wear my hair in a braid (though it's all shellacked in place) for Rhythm. It whips around nicely and adds some movement. Also requires the pro to duck sometimes, but he's fast. ;)

I couldn't wear it loose, though! My hair never looks good down, or if it does it doesn't stay that way for long. Tanning is pretty much a must, too, as I've seen pictures without and I'm chalk-white and washed out. Under stage lights it just doesn't look good to be pale. I have to use a foundation two or three shades darker, though, as my everyday skin tone is pretty much chalk-white. I use a CoverGirl brand and so far, no problems with it running.

[Tangoqueen]

The reason many tan is so they don't look pasty on the floor. Usually it's the Latin or Rhythm competitors that have those dark tans. Personally I feel more comfortable wearing a skimpy latin costume if I'm tan. Much like wearing a bikini in the summer. I think it's kind of gross to pasty white legs dancing around in front of you. Plus it also hides skin flaws like broken blood vessels and bruises which are pretty commmon with the lady dancers. If your just dancing smooth or standard and your costume covers you up you don't really need to tan if you have healthy color to your face. Remember PASTY IS OUT!!! :lol:

Actually, from my personal experience about a year ago, I was dancing Smooth with my partner and after we were done, at the pizza party a judge called me over and said that I need a tan and a different hair style. She mentioned that if I get these 2 taken care of, I will be placed higher by the other judges (she had me in 1st based on my dancing). So you still need a tan whether you're doing Smooth, Standard or Latin/Rhythm.
I just go to my local tanning salon and get sprayed by Mystic Tan, level 2 (higher intensity) about 1 week before the competition. If I see that this color is not enough, I go again 2 days before. ;)

[Tangoqueen]

Question for you (and probably better on a make-up thread, but cannot find one after 5 minutes of searching).

What shade of foundation do you use on your face when you tan? I have used one that is a bit darker than what I would normally wear (not that I ever wear any), but I generally don't tan my face because of very sensitive skin issues. So I need to compensate with foundation and a bronzer. Maybe I should be matching my bronzer up to the tan color? I just never seem to get this right.

I use Bare Escentuals makeup on daily basis, usually Medium color. When I get a tan for a comp, I use Medium Beige and then Warmth (bronze blush) for the darker tanned appearance. It matches really well. It is a breeze to apply an it stays put really nicely. I understand that it's a bit pricey, but go to ebay and you can save some $$. :D

[Tangoqueen]

It does to some extent, so if you're applying multiple coats of a self-tanner over multiple days you need to be careful to not rub yourself when you shower and especially not when you dry yourself. You should also sleep in old nightclothes on old sheets, because sometimes there is staining.

If you use a paint-on body stain, like ProTan, you can paint it on the morning you compete, and then wash some of it off afterwards.

Supposedly the spray-on booth tanning systems, like Mystic Tan, are the best way to go because they aren't as messy and the results last longer. A place like that opened up down the street from me, and I'm tempted to try it before my next comp. If I do I'll let you know how it goes.


YOu'll love it! :p That's what I choose to do for my tan. That eliminates me having to mess with creams and such, then run wash my hands to avoid orange palms.
Have fun with it!

[hereKittyKitty]

I use Bare Escentuals makeup on daily basis, usually Medium color. When I get a tan for a comp, I use Medium Beige and then Warmth (bronze blush) for the darker tanned appearance. It matches really well. It is a breeze to apply an it stays put really nicely. I understand that it's a bit pricey, but go to ebay and you can save some $$. :D

Maybelline also has a mineral line that is awesome and less $$. I have their finishing veil powder and it works really well when I don't want to use self tanner on my face. It pretty much blends in with my self tanner from Sun Labs and stays put with maybe a little touching up between rounds.

[Tangoqueen]

Maybelline also has a mineral line that is awesome and less $$. I have their finishing veil powder and it works really well when I don't want to use self tanner on my face. It pretty much blends in with my self tanner from Sun Labs and stays put with maybe a little touching up between rounds.

Don't you just love mineral makeup? It's the best thing since sliced bread, IMHO. :grin:

[hereKittyKitty]

Don't you just love mineral makeup? It's the best thing since sliced bread, IMHO. :grin:

I wasn't sure what all of the fuss was about until I tried it. I think its great. I love the coverage.

[chocolatchica]

I wasn't sure what all of the fuss was about until I tried it. I think its great. I love the coverage.
Never tried it. What makes it so much better than regular makeup? I thought it was just another name to give makeup to sell it for more money. Kind of like super lash extension is no different than the normal lash extension. Lol

[Tangoqueen]

Never tried it. What makes it so much better than regular makeup? I thought it was just another name to give makeup to sell it for more money. Kind of like super lash extension is no different than the normal lash extension. Lol

Trust me, when you try it, you'll feel and see the difference. The MAIN reason I use it is because they don't add chemicals to BE makeup, as opposed to liquid foundations. Look at your 'regular' makeup bottle's ingredients. But everyone has their own reasons. I've given up all other makeup 4 years ago. :google:

[Tangoqueen]

I wasn't sure what all of the fuss was about until I tried it. I think its great. I love the coverage.

Same here! My liquid stuff used to slide off my oily skin and looked so awful, I had to carry powder and cover it up like crazy all day long!:rolleyes: And at $28 per bottle, that wasn't worth it. I'm amazed that even when I sweat heavily when practicing, once the sweat dries, mineral makeup shows no traces at all! :idea:

[sprifty]

I've been using Sun laborators for years and I adore it. I started out using the overnight cream in medium because I'm naturally just about the palest shade of pale there is. However, the dark shade looks just as good now and requires less coats. It's great because it goes on a dark brown, turns into a white cream, and blends really well. I've never had any problems with streaks (although since it's a cream you might need a friend/dance partner to help you with your back).
I've actually just bought a new bottle for my competition in a week and discovered that it's on sale! If you look at lookingtan . com they are having a winter special. The giant 32 oz that I normally buy for $73 was only $28. Granted it may be from their christmas stock...but I'm not really sure it expires. I normally use the 32 oz for about a year anyway since it takes a while to get through the whole bottle.

[mamboqueen]

Thanks for the tip. I will give it a whirl!

[tangotime]

Just out of curiosity, where did all this fake stuff start anyway?

Who started all this stuff, anyway?




Glad you asked.... it started in the UK during wartime.. nylons or stockings were in very scarce supply..so... someone invented Leg makeup. It eventually found its way to the dance halls and the Comp. floor ( this was 1943/4 ).. the rest is history ( or Her story ! )


PS... perma tan is now very common in the UK for everyday wear

[jerseydancer]

I went to the congress held just before the BYU Dancesport Championships last year where they have the judges teach classes. One of the female judges (I can't remember her name off the top of my head) taught a class entitled, "What judges are looking for vs. what we think they are looking for." It was very interesting! I was surprised that she did mention the element of tanning. She included it under the topic of looking the part. She said, and I agree, that dancing is a lot like acting and you really do dance and perform much better when you are fully "acting the part." I have naturally long nails and very long eye lashes, but I always wear fake nails and eyelashes when I compete because it makes me so much more aware of them (where my hands are and where my eyes are looking). I have competed both latin and standard and although I don't feel that having latin tan for standard is necessary I do like to have a healthy looking tan for that as well.
There is a local salon that for $65.00 will do a full body salt scrub, facial and lotion massage (the lotion is bronzer). It takes an hour and a half and feels so amazing! They do a really good job too, the color is always really evenly distributed and the massage isn't too deep so you aren't walking around sore the next day. It is a luxury I have only indulged in once, but I am already planning my next trip. :)

Do you have the phone number for this salon?

[skwiggy]

Does anyone have any experience using body makeup instead of tanner? Either a body foundation or bronzer? I'd like to examine this option but I'm worried about having the makeup come off on my dress.

I would appreciate any anecdotes or recommendations! Thanks!

[latingal]

Does anyone have any experience using body makeup instead of tanner? Either a body foundation or bronzer? I'd like to examine this option but I'm worried about having the makeup come off on my dress.

I would appreciate any anecdotes or recommendations! Thanks!

I've had HIS bronzer come off on my dress, does that help? *grin*

[Joe]

Not gonna be a problem.

[Joe]

Does anyone have any experience using body makeup instead of tanner? Either a body foundation or bronzer? I'd like to examine this option but I'm worried about having the makeup come off on my dress.

I would appreciate any anecdotes or recommendations! Thanks!
Scotchguard your dress? :D

[waltzgirl]

I've used Sally Hansen spray-on leg makeup on my back, chest, neck (and legs). I just looked at the dress I wore (not washed since) and there is one tiny spot on the edge of the back, otherwise nothing. I've also slept with it on my legs and it didn't come off on the sheets.

I use the darkest color, which isn't that dark--okay for smooth/standard, but not for latin. The other colors are too weird. The key to using it is rubbing it in *really* well and letting it dry completely before dressing.

[hereKittyKitty]

I've used Sally Hansen leg makeup as well and its great. It doesn't come off on my clothes and you have to use a lot of soap or makeup remover to remove it.

[NonieS]

Really?!?!?! Because I used the Sally Hansen leg makeup for a comp once too and it was horrible!!! came off on my costume and all over my partner :(

[skwiggy]

Thanks for the recommendations! Sally Hansen is the brand of tanner that I have been very happy with, so I'm going to give this a try. I'm going to do a trial run at practice and see how it goes. Much appreciated!

[waltzgirl]

Make sure to massage it in really well. It looks better and stays better. Good luck!

[dansa]

I use Sally Hansen fejk tan but also Sally hansen leg make up for all body...
think it works great.. dosent come off on my clothes...
however i dont feel that the colour becomes dark enough for dancing under alot of lights... but then again i really like the very very dark brown look

[Rugby]

I use the Sally Hansen Airbrush legs in Deep Glow and I have found it works great for both my partner and I. I use it on my partner's face and neck and it is better than other things we have tried. I use Maybelline dream matte mousse in carmel and it looks very natural. People have thought that I had just returned from Florida. I have used it on my legs and body as well and it works really well. I mix it with some hand lotion or heated under the hand dryer to make it go on smoother. I am quite pale and it doesn't take a lot to give me good cover.
Between the two I would use the Sally Hansen everywhere but on the face where I'd recommend the mousse.

[dancingirldancing]

I dislike spray tan and natural suntanning.

The first one because I can never get them applied evenly.

The second one because I hate the effect it has on my skn (become spotty etc).

So now I just use a daily body lotion with some gradual tanning ingredients in it.

I love using it as I only need to use it like my regular body lotion.

It also give me gradual tan and provided I use a good brand I can actually go pretty dark.

The only problem is that I cant really scrub my body much as it will take off the tan :(

There really is no easy way !

Btw I am also olive but have very very pale legs.

Thank God I dance mostly standard !

Oh I dont find Sally Hansen very dark either !

I dont really like the spray tan (but then again I dont like any spray tan) but the pre tan scrub is TDF.

It is just the best !

[Standarddancer]

Does anyone have any experience using body makeup instead of tanner? Either a body foundation or bronzer? I'd like to examine this option but I'm worried about having the makeup come off on my dress.

I would appreciate any anecdotes or recommendations! Thanks!

which someone can tell me that, I used to use the Sugar bronzer from sephora (believe it's discontinued) but when I danced multiple rounds, it was running. Just bought lancome Star bronzer to try, can't report since last comp was at Utah, my dress pretty much covered so didn't use.

From reading a beauty thread, some girls saying Too Faced bronzer not bad, but not yet to try myself.

[QPO]

ok I am dancing standard in my first comp Less than two weeks away!, I was just going to put make-up on my face and not my body we are level 1...surely they dont expect people at this level to be made up on their body?

[hereKittyKitty]

I use the Sally Hansen Airbrush legs in Deep Glow and I have found it works great for both my partner and I. I use it on my partner's face and neck and it is better than other things we have tried. I use Maybelline dream matte mousse in carmel and it looks very natural. People have thought that I had just returned from Florida. I have used it on my legs and body as well and it works really well. I mix it with some hand lotion or heated under the hand dryer to make it go on smoother. I am quite pale and it doesn't take a lot to give me good cover.
Between the two I would use the Sally Hansen everywhere but on the face where I'd recommend the mousse.
I also use Maybelline dream matte mousse and its my favorite for the face. I haven't tried competing using Sally Hansen, but I have used it during heavy practice. I'm not sure if its dark enough for latin but it should be ok for standard, in deep glow.

[hereKittyKitty]

ok I am dancing standard in my first comp Less than two weeks away!, I was just going to put make-up on my face and not my body we are level 1...surely they dont expect people at this level to be made up on their body?
I wouldn't worry about it for now and just focus on your competition. Thats important enough:)
I do think it helps with the overall look. Maybe experiment with different tanning methods when you don't have a comp coming up.

[mummsie]

ok I am dancing standard in my first comp Less than two weeks away!, I was just going to put make-up on my face and not my body we are level 1...surely they dont expect people at this level to be made up on their body?

Level 1 you don't need to tan unless its a major comp and then only lightly tan - don't go the full hog. My daughter didn't tan for her first few but she looked so pale and out of place we had to give in and do it. QPO are you also dancing level 2? if so it also depends on how backless your costume is. - mummsie

[QPO]

The dress I am using has a closed back so I am fortunate then on this occasion.

I will be better prepared for Camberra and more relaxed :shock:


Level 1 you don't need to tan unless its a major comp and then only lightly tan - don't go the full hog. My daughter didn't tan for her first few but she looked so pale and out of place we had to give in and do it. QPO are you also dancing level 2? if so it also depends on how backless your costume is. - mummsie

[biggestbox]

how much area do you tan? up the neck, chin? then use makeup on the face?

[skwiggy]

I tried the Sally Hansen leg makeup during practice last night as a test run. It definitely came off on my clothes, especially my bra. Although admittedly I was running late and may not have given it enough time to dry before dressing. For those of you who use this, how long do you let it dry before you put on your costume?

I've also seen a lot of people use Aerotan by $exSymbol. Any reports on how much this comes off on the clothes?

Or if anyone has found a bronzer that doesn't sweat off?

Actual tanner is not an option for me at this upcoming competition, and my dress has a very open back. I'd like to make sure I don't look pasty. :)

[Larinda McRaven]

Aerotan does come off. Easily. And it is NOT good as a stand alone product. I use it on a long competition weekend over my Mystic Tan or ProTan as they fade. As in I need to keep the tan going for the rest of the weekend but am too lazy to ProTan before I go to bed, then wake up and regret that decsion.

It also has a lightly reddish hue and shimmer to it and looks funny if you use it on your face.

[etp777]

I know pros at one of my studios (and probalby at main studio soon, as they were asking other pros for advice), all use sexsymbol over protan, as Larinda mentioned.

[NonieS]

i used sex symbol over another tanner as well (superbraun, l'oreal sublime, etc) and it worked very well... it does rub off though not as badly as the sally hansen stuff i used once (i have no idea how pple get it to not rub off... it was horrible when it used it!!!)... sex symbol does wash out very easily, however...

another tanner I bought which was horrible was sexy tan.... it rubbed right off my body!! no idea why... i've heard some people swear by it, but it would not stay on my skin at all!!! like it actually balled up and rubbed off... so that I had little white patches all over me!!

[hereKittyKitty]

i used sex symbol over another tanner as well (superbraun, l'oreal sublime, etc) and it worked very well... it does rub off though not as badly as the sally hansen stuff i used once (i have no idea how pple get it to not rub off... it was horrible when it used it!!!)... sex symbol does wash out very easily, however...

another tanner I bought which was horrible was sexy tan.... it rubbed right off my body!! no idea why... i've heard some people swear by it, but it would not stay on my skin at all!!! like it actually balled up and rubbed off... so that I had little white patches all over me!!

I think it depends on chemistry. Maybe my skin is drier so SH doesn't rub off as easily. I've never used sexy tan,superbraun or sex symbol but I have used l'oreal and it turns me a hideous shade of orange.
Sounds like a real horror story with the sexy tan stuff though:doh:

[TAK]

I dislike spray tan and natural suntanning.

The first one because I can never get them applied evenly.

If you are talking about self-tanners (rather than Mystic Tan), the trick is definitely to rub it in, even though on the bottle it will tell you not to. I always used to have terrible streaks until I started spreading the stuff around with my hands, and now it is even every time. (I think it was Laura who posted on another thread that she does this--thank you!)

[jerseydancer]

If you are talking about self-tanners (rather than Mystic Tan), the trick is definitely to rub it in, even though on the bottle it will tell you not to. I always used to have terrible streaks until I started spreading the stuff around with my hands, and now it is even every time. (I think it was Laura who posted on another thread that she does this--thank you!)

Dont your hands then turn into dark brown gloves?

[TAK]

Dont your hands then turn into dark brown gloves?

Gotta wash 'em afterward!

I don't pay a whole lot of attention to my hands b/c I wear gloves with my costume, but if anything they have usually ended up lighter than the rest of me (and not by much). If you do the rubbing-in thing, wash, and then re-spray your hands as usual I'd think you would be fine.

[emkey]

just to add, even in a country filled with the malayan south east asian brown race... my assistant coaches still feel the need to tan for muscle definition, lighting as well as making the skin town even

[wonderwoman]

Hm. I just figured it was more visually appealling. For the women, latin costumes are brighter colors and show more skin, and a girl as naturally fair as me would look washed out. I tried on a bright yellow dress a few weeks ago that just looked awful with my skin tone. Some of the guys would look washed out in black. Also it helps hide certain imperfections. Everybody looks more toned and healthy with some color. I don't see it as any different than wearing fake lashes to make the eyes pop.

[etp777]

Was sitting outside to get a bit of sun today, even though I'm not competing ofr a while, was still doing it with thought of next comp. Of course, all you can see of me is hands and face on the dance floor, but that's not the point. :)

[wonderwoman]

I just burn, but I like to have a slight sun burn. :)

I wore spf 15 in Hawaii because I wanted to soak some in without getting burned, probably unwise. Have noticed new freckles long after returning to rainy Pittsburgh.

I can just picture, if I ever compete, having to go to work with the fresh orange spray tan, because I want it to fade a bit for the event.

[sambagirl]

another tanner I bought which was horrible was sexy tan.... it rubbed right off my body!! no idea why... i've heard some people swear by it, but it would not stay on my skin at all!!! like it actually balled up and rubbed off... so that I had little white patches all over me!!

Did you use the fixative spray on the sexy tan or just the tanner? Just curious, because I used sexy tan with the fixative at Blackpool last year and it worked great.

[Wolfgang]

The current culture emphasizes that dark skin is good, 'sexy' and 'cool'.
This will change eventually (in Victorian times, it was fashionable to be as pale as possible), but don't expect it to happen in your/our lifetime.

Dancing or not, the darker your skin, the more 'defined' or 'toned' you look, because the shadows are deeper.
Darker skin also makes your teeth appear whiter by contrast.

[NonieS]

Did you use the fixative spray on the sexy tan or just the tanner? Just curious, because I used sexy tan with the fixative at Blackpool last year and it worked great.


I used the tanner and the fixative.... I met the woman at Blackpool last week and we talked about it.... she sprayed some on my body and it was fine... I would probably only use it on my legs. She and I both decided that I either applied it wrong or had a wonky batch..


I like the Super Brown product... it gets me pretty dark and I am pretty white to begin with...

[Jananananana]

I like the Super Brown product... it gets me pretty dark and I am pretty white to begin with...

I LOVE supertan, which is the same product as superbraun except in lotion form. It dries out my skin like crazy though, which kind of sucks. I also like soaking in my rays outside like while playing basketball or bbqing or hanging out at the beach. SPF 15 for me - and I get just a touch of tan :-)

[Benjy]

I'm trying to save money by not having to try out every single to find one that works. I have used Contest Colour before, and it works fine for my black shirt, but it stains white shirts (my standard shirt for example). I was told it wouldn't bleed, it did, and nothing I can do can get it out.

I just got a new white designer latin shirt, so I need a tanner that does not bleed, or if it does, it will come out of sensitive fabrics.

Any suggestions?

[dancedress.nl]

Try sexytan with fixation. You can apply sexy tan on your skin and then rub all over where you want to use it. If you want to be more brown than apply a second layer. Than spray the fixation on and done. It will colour your shirt a little bit, but its really easy to get it out, even with just some water. I can easily get it out from my ballroom dresses.

[canismajor41]

dancedress - are these two different lines? Sexy Tan is made by Matahari. Fixation is another brand - correct? Which Fixation Lotion do you recommend putting on top of Sexy Tan?

[Benjy]

Would the sexy tanner come off if it weren't washed off immediately after the round? I somewhat freaked out about ruining the new white shirt (I've only worn black shirts to date and tanner doesn't stain them).

[dancedress.nl]

They are from the same brand, name DanceCos. you can see it on this page: http://dancesportuk.dancesportinfo.net/ProductDetails.aspx?id=2615

[dancedress.nl]

If you use the fixative it will be okay. It doesn't make big spots. If you first apply everything, also the fixation, and let it dry, than get on your shirt carefully it will be good. Or apply it earlier and first get on a normal shirt, which you don't care. Than it will dry good, and later you can change for your competition clothing.
Its impossible to keep the shirt totally clean from spots, but this will make much less because of the fixation. And is really easy to remove from the shirts even between rounds. Just get a wet sponge and clean it, than you can dry the wet parts with a hairdryer.

[canismajor41]

This product is not a self-tanner with DHA, right? After you shower, does it wash off completely or does it leave you tan?

[dancedress.nl]

You can wash it off 100%.

[Benjy]

If you use the fixative it will be okay. It doesn't make big spots. If you first apply everything, also the fixation, and let it dry, than get on your shirt carefully it will be good. Or apply it earlier and first get on a normal shirt, which you don't care. Than it will dry good, and later you can change for your competition clothing.
Its impossible to keep the shirt totally clean from spots, but this will make much less because of the fixation. And is really easy to remove from the shirts even between rounds. Just get a wet sponge and clean it, than you can dry the wet parts with a hairdryer.

As long as it will wash off (even after the tanner dries into the fabric), it's fine. I would probably wear the shirt just for finals anyway. I just need to be able to get it off again by the next competition.

[dancedress.nl]

Than no problem. Even a few days after you can clean it easily.

[Benjy]

Has anyone tried superbrown by Dancecos? My plan is to order several different tanners and try them all out. I have a considerable break before my next comp, so this is the time to do it.

Again, my primary concern is how well the tanner washes out of costumes. Dancedress.nl, thanks so much... I'm definitely gonna try the Sexytan.

The ones I am currently looking at

http://www.jantana.com/index.php/competition-color/color-for-professional-dancers.html/

SexyTan by Dancecos (with the Fixative Spray)

SuperBrown by Dancecos http://www.dancecos.com/shop/product_info.php?products_id=31&osCsid=b0ba7258a5c44d3a84c5d00c7f829f11 [remove space between "c" and "4"]

If I could find people who have used each of these, that would be great

[latingal]

think we have a pretty exhaustive thread somewhere on tanners....

[DancingShoes]

Florida lifestyle. It's the sunshine state! :rocker:

[Larinda McRaven]

I am not a fan of Sexy-Tan as the only tanning product. It is very coppery metallic and the people I have seen using it as their primary tan source end up looking like a metal robot to me. :)

[etp777]

It seems most of the fake tanners have some detriment. Whether being too orange, too metallic, not covering perfectly, etc. Most every pro I've asked suggests using two. Of course, none of them seem to agree as to what the best combination is. :)

[Benjy]

It seems most of the fake tanners have some detriment. Whether being too orange, too metallic, not covering perfectly, etc. Most every pro I've asked suggests using two. Of course, none of them seem to agree as to what the best combination is. :)

I'd rather the fake tanner look fake than ruin my clothes though, so...

[Larinda McRaven]

yup.