Just because it’s cold and dreary out doesn’t mean you can’t fake a vacation glow.
Tanning beds are, of course, passé (and possibly carcinogenic), but there are many safe and healthy options to look sun-kissed.
Bronzer
Bronzer, concealer, lipstick and a bit of mascara are all you need for “day makeup.” The right bronzer transforms pale skin and also can be used to contour and highlight your best features. Guerlain Terracotta Bronzing Powder, CoverGirl TRUblend Mineral Bronzer or Stila Sun Highlighter are all excellent options.
Tinted Moisturizer
Many tinted moisturizers include SPF, so you can protect your skin while still looking tan. Wear a tinted moisturizer alone or layer it over a serum or other moisturizer for extra hydration. Try Laura Mercier, Bobbi Brown or Aveda tinted moisturizers with SPF. If you already own bottled self-tanner, try mixing a touch of it to your favorite lotion to make your own tinted moisturizer. 
Self-Tanner
Although bottled self-tanners still do their job, tanning towelettes are where it’s at. Not only are towelettes convenient, but when applied correctly, they go on virtually streak-free (Hint: If you’re applying to your entire body, you may need to recruit your significant other or a friend to apply to your back).
Kate Somerville 360˚ Tanning Towelettes deliver color within two to four hours. There are no parabens, sulfates, synthetic dyes or phthalates, and the pleasant, lemony scent doesn’t overpower like other self-tanners. Another option is Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Glow Pad for Body. These pads do more than just color the skin. With active vitamin D and an anti-aging formula, the pads exfoliate while delivering natural, streak-free color. No parabens, sulfates or phthalates are used.
Spray-Tan
Get a spray tan at the salon or let the professionals come to you. Having a specialist apply your tan means flawless application and no missed spots. If you have an upcoming special occasion, get a group of friends together and create an at-home “spray tanning party” while reaping the benefits of a group discount. Make sure to have your tan applied a day or two before your event so the color has time to settle.
Renu Day Spa
617 Central Ave.
Deerfield
847-940-9727
The Air Brush Tan at Renu is safe, vegan, gluten free and ultra moisturizing. Try the “classic,” which develops in eight hours, or the “express,” which develops in one to three hours (both $25-35). Expect your tan to last five to seven days. For even better results, have the full-body scrub before the tanner is applied ($10).
Mario Tricoci Hair Salon & Day Spa
Various locations
The 30-minute Express Tanning treatment ($45) includes a mitt exfoliation and application of St. Tropez moisturizing tanning mousse.
Golden Girl Chicago
160 N. Halsted St.
Chicago
813-784-4906
Make an appointment at Golden Girl ($45) or have an expert come to you ($85). Group pricing is also available.
