A Defense of the Winter Spray Tan

While gearing up for a party this Saturday, I worked a spray tan into my beauty prep schedule. It may not be the thing on most people's holiday to-do list, but it's definitely on mine. Plenty of people I know spray tan regularly in summer, but most of them stop cold turkey sometime in the run up to Halloween. Don't get me wrong—there's nothing wrong with being pale and proud, and to be honest, I don't get sprayed as often or go as dark as I do in July and August, but I'm a big believer on the positive effects of a cold-weather tan.

When I have one, I wake up feeling prettier (and, yes, skinnier) and I don't feel the need to wear as much makeup—just some mascara and gloss and I feel ready to go. I also like that I can wear whatever outfit I want—no need to shy away from bare arms or a scoop neck. So it's not the most natural look in the middle of winter, but it's one that helps me get through these short, cold days.

What's your take on spray tans in the winter? And if you're a die-hard fan, do you agree they lift your spirits?

by Heather Muir, Beauty News Editor of Allure Magazine