Friday July 28, 2000

Mistake Free Sunless Tanning

Catching a golden tan won't cost as much as jewelry, but baking in the sun can be a serious health risk. Now a new tanning method may save your skin while giving you a healthy glow. EXTRA has the story.

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.

"That's the tanning agent in most sunless tanning, it's a natural product," explains Tom.

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.

"I'm happy with the results, I think I'll be back tomorrow," says Summer.

"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, and it's only available in Texas right now but there are plans to expand. For more information go to www.mist-on.com or call 1-800-411-0355.