Stuff 123: Tan Lines—Badge or Curse?

By J. J. Atwell

Now that we're into tanning season here in the Northern Hemisphere, let's consider the lowly tan line. Because of the cut of the clothing we normally wear—and despite our assiduous application of sunscreen—we all seem to wind up with tan lines.

For those who spend most of their time in guy mode, that probably means darker forearms but untanned upper arms, shoulders, and torso. Perhaps you've got a V-neck tan as well. It all looks perfectly normal when you're out in guy mode.

But what about girl mode? Perhaps you're wearing a scoop-neck top that reveals that tanned V-neck and the untanned portion of your chest. Or maybe cap sleeves expose the lighter skin on your upper arms. Perhaps this ChatGPT image makes the point best.

How Do You Handle It?

I know some of you acquire female tan lines because you're regularly out and about dressed. Perhaps you even intentionally develop female tan lines by sunbathing in your favorite swimsuit. It does make me wonder, though, how you hide them while in male mode.

In most cases, regular guy clothing will cover those tan lines. But what if you need to take off your shirt and your bikini-top tan lines are showing? Do you consider them a badge of courage?

In my case, I've got the typical guy tan and need to compensate when going out as JJ if I'm wearing a top that exposes more skin. There are a couple of things I do to make that less of a problem.

The easiest solution, of course, is to get some sun. I'm fortunate enough to have my own pool and can lounge out there in guy mode to even things out a bit. I try not to overdo it, though, because sun damage is something we should all avoid.

Failing that, there are self-tanning lotions you can use. Sometimes the results are good; other times they leave you looking rather artificial. I'm sure you can think of a few well-known people who have overdone that look. Experiment with different brands until you find one that gives you a natural appearance.

You can also use makeup to cover lighter areas. The drawback is that it may rub off on your clothing, so proceed carefully. One more thing: as your skin darkens during the summer, you may find it necessary to adjust your makeup shade to match.

Tan lines can definitely be a challenge.

I'll Be Back

Comments are welcome either here on the blog or by email at Jenn6nov at-sign gmail dot com. JJ is always looking for new topics, so let me know what you'd like to read about next.

Wearing Boston Proper

Roman Polanski femulating in the 1976 film The Tenant.