When it comes to at-home tanning, the only way to get a natural finish is by ensuring you chose a product with an undertone that matches your own.
We have long been told that the best tone for a natural tan is a green- or olive-based formula, known for canceling out redness, but one TikTok user is begging tan lovers to ditch the olive tones in favor of a surprising shade.
Alice Hodgson said that, "'in the nicest way possible it's giving 'Shrek' [the green movie ogre]," as she convinced viewers that tanning products with purple undertones would be the better option.
More 'Barney' than 'Shrek', Hodgson was making big claims about tans with purple undertones. She said the TikTok video's almost 1 million viewers should "please try a purple-based fake tan, and I promise you it will look better."
Believing these formulas provide a more natural, even finish, Hodgson told viewers: "I'm willing to die on this hill. Nobody looks good with a green-based fake tan."
Speaking out against popular tanning beliefs, she added: "I don't care if they say they're for olive skin tones."
Using a purple fake tan is a great option for those looking for a radiant, deep tan while working to counteract yellow tones for a natural, sunless glow.
What Do the Comments Say?
The comments section showed viewers' eagerness to try the unusual undertone for themselves. One wrote: "Didn't even know this was a thing, I always hated tanning because of the green."
"If you understand color theory. This makes sense! Purple tones will cool down too warm or orange tones!" added a second.
Some users pointed out that what's true for Hodgson may not be right for all of them, as one wrote: "Tan bases are used in the same way toners are for hair violet is if you have fair hair/skin blue/green eyes green base is good for dark hair/eyes and skin that tans easily."
Others were defending green-based tans, with one writing: "I love a green based fake tan. Best I've had."
"I stand by my green tans," posted another. "Everything else makes me look like I'm just sun burnt - green tans defo work on a smaller number of people though."
A third added: "Bestie I am literally translucent. Like so pale in the winter you can see my veins. Green tans are the only ones that work for me."
Others suggested alternatives for those who don't like either, as one person commented, "Blue based is where it's at."
"Red base all the way!" wrote another.
Uncommon Knowledge
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
About the writer
Lollie is Newsweek's Beauty and Self Care Reporter based in London, U.K. In her role, she covers a range of ... Read more
