Former US President Donald Trump has long been a subject of fascination due to his distinctively orange complexion, sparking ongoing discussions about his tan. Observers note that his skin tone has varied over the years, with the orange hue reaching its peak in 2020 before toning down leading up to the 2024 election.
In his earlier real estate career, Trump appeared notably paler in vintage photographs, reflective of his Scottish and German heritage. It wasn’t until his time on “The Apprentice” in 2012 that he began consistently applying makeup for public appearances, solidifying his association with the orange shade.
Speculation surrounds the methods Trump may use to achieve his signature look, with suggestions ranging from tanning beds to spray tans. There have even been claims, as detailed in former aide Omarosa Manigault’s book, that Trump dismissed a White House staff member over a mishandled tanning bed setup.
Makeup artist Kriss Blevens, who has worked with multiple US Presidents, including Trump, indicated that his color likely comes from self-tanner. Other experts, such as celebrity makeup artist Safia Cox, believe Trump uses a combination of fake tan products and bronzers to achieve his distinct hue.
Cox noted a possible increase in Trump’s orange tint over time, speculating that it could stem from heightened stress levels or evolving personal preferences. She even suggested that Trump may have developed a “fake tan blindness,” unaware of the extreme nature of his tanning routine.
The evolving shades of orange in Trump’s complexion have spurred online discussions and memes, prompting curiosity about his motivations for maintaining such a distinctive look. Cox proposed that Trump’s tanning habits might be driven by a desire for confidence or strategic attention-seeking tactics.
