“Tan-Lines: proof positive that we sneak around wearing swimsuits while out playing in the sunshine!” ~ Aaron Peterson-Poladopoulos ~
Myth: only Caucasian people have tan–lines. Absolutely false!
A more descriptive and official definition of tan-lines comes across the internet (courtesy Wikipedia) as: “visibly clear division of the human skin between an area of pronounced comparative paleness relative to other areas that have been suntanned by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation or by sunless tanning.” No slight to my spouse, Aaron, is intended as his off-the-cuff remark is closer to reality but not as authoritative nor credible as the digital version. However, he does offer an easier to understand rendition!
Aaron further details his offering as a “garment signature on our skin.” The ultimate proof that the person blatantly exposing their tan-line is either new to the bare practitioner life and scene or guilty of being closeted (secretive) about their naked preference. Our culture is very welcoming and receptive to our recent converts to our lifestyle! Less so to our closeted souls!
One common myth that is popular is that tan-lines only occur in the lighter-skinned persons. The inclusion of images here featuring individuals with darker-skin tones proves that this is a false conception. All persons, regardless of race and ethnicity, experience tan-lines.
Another myth is that the lighter the skin tone, no tan-lines are discernable. This is indeed a false determination again using pictures to refute the misconception.
Tan-lines have existed as long as humanity. It is not a recent development without any precedent. Since man first used fig-leaves to hide genitalia, tan-lines have been a reality of nature.
Tan-lines are concrete evidence of conflict in the lives of the bearer. It confirms a serious discrepancy in their bare status. Deception or indecision? Only the person with the actual tan-line knows for certain the truth of the matter and most of them are unwilling to acknowledge confusion.
One of the common uses of tanning beds and/or tanning rooms is the option of tanning completely nude in order to reduce the appearance of tan-lines. In contrast, some people prefer to have tan-lines and will wear swimwear or undergarments with the deliberate purpose of creating a sharply defined tan-line.
There are some same gender loving men who envision the existence of tan-lines on the body of another as very sexually appealing. They are appreciative and attracted to others because of this phenomena. I’m Greek (fair skinned) and my spouse, Aaron, is African-Canadian (dark skinned). Neither of us find a tan-line desirable or exciting but we both know men who do! The presence of diversity in our community and culture is a fact of life that we all welcome!
PostScript: The tan-line is also a physical confirmation that the wearer is employed as a lifeguard (beach patrol) at a mainstream (non clothing-optional) facility.
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Friday, June 9, 2023, and the proposed topic is: “Clarifications!”
ReNude Pride 