Trend Alert: Really fake tans, orange skin, greasy-looking "glowing" skin, LOTS of bronzer.

This is the thing I don't get: why do women feel the need to change their skin color so drastically?  I mean, I understand fully the appeal of a healthy glow, but oompah-loompah orange skin?  Skin color is not something that is easily changed: though there are certainly products that can enhance it, trying to hide the beautiful skin tone you are blessed with will only look unnatural.

I think every year brings with it a new set of beauty expectations, fads, and trends.  Here is what I would like to see in 2008: women embracing the skin color they are born with and taking care of their skin instead of torturing it and then hiding it away like a prisoner.  Enhance it with beautiful glow-y products in whatever colors float your boat, but let's keep in mind that working with what we've got will always take us further than struggling to obtain what we'll never have.

I think it's about time that women realize that ALL skin colors are equally beautiful.  From deep chocolate to the fairest white, and everything in between, each can be beautiful only if it is embraced and accepted, not fought against.

Oh, and here's my current beauty obession: sunscreen.  Any kind will do, although I lean toward light, nongreasy formulas of at least SPF 30.  Skin cancer is a very real threat for men and women of all skin colors, especially to those who worship the sun (or worse, the tanning bed), and anyway, healthy skin looks the best.  Take care of the skin you've got by protecting it against harmful UV rays and you'll be rewarded with softness and a natural glow.