Script and photos from Extra broadcast of Feb 3/4, 2001. Dana Devin tells Extra viewers nationwide about Mist-On tanning.
  Special notes: Mist-On Tan had no editorial control over the script of this telecast
 
  • the Mist-On tanning session takes 60 seconds not 15 seconds.
  • units were in operation from Florida to California at the time of broadcast.
  • the opinions expressed about UV-bed tanning and sun tanning were solely those of the Fox network.

Weekend February 3/4, 2001

The perfect tan. Despite all the warnings, millions continue to go for the gold by sizzling their skin under the sun or frying in a fake-n-bake tanning bed. But now there's a safe, new way for sun-bums to achieve that golden glow. It's called the "Mist-On" tan. Tom Laughlin invented the "Mist-On" tanning booth, which is literally a gentle shower that sprays a fine mist of self-tanner with no streaks!

You get a uniform coating, head to toe," Tom promises.

Here's how it works: At the touch of a button, the jets spray a solution of bronzers, basically food coloring, a chemical called DHA and an aloe vera based moisturizer. Tom explains, "That's the tanning agent in most sunless tanning, it's a natural product," We asked two avid sun worshippers, Summer Smith and Joy Gilmer, to try the "Mist-On" tan at Planet Tan in Lewisville, Texas.

We asked each of them to cover a spot on their arms with a sticker so we could see the immediate difference after the tanning session. Once the mist begins, Joy and Summer simply close their eyes, raise their arms and turn side to side. Fifteen seconds later they're done.

"It was darker than I expected," says Joy about her tan.

"Mist-On" costs $15-25 a session, and lasts for about a week. The downside? It can rub off on clothes right after a session.