The risk of skin cancer and premature ageing means most of us are faking our tans. Joanna Hall tests six new-generation self-tanning products.

In today's sun-worshipping society, it's hard to imagine that throughout most of our history porcelain skin was prized. Before the 1920s, tanning was dismissed as gauche. Then couture guru, Coco Chanel, returned from a vacation in the south of France with golden skin, and a tan was suddenly a fashion statement.

Spending time in the sun and acquiring a healthy glow is one thing, but the long-term effects of sun baking are now well proven. So, how to get some colour, safely?

Self-tanning products are a better option, but early efforts, with their telltale orange results and unpleasant smells, left many consumers wary.

In recent years, impressive advancements in the development of self-tanners have seen a flurry of new-generation products hit the market. Today, achieving a golden glow without the risks associated with sun exposure is more realistic and achievable than ever before.

There are plenty of options to suit every preference and budget.

Tan Towel

If you've ever wondered how Miss Universe 2004, Jennifer Hawkins, manages to look so perfectly bronzed, her secret is TanTowels.

Like wet-wipes, these towelettes are impregnated with a tanning solution, and are so easy to use that even a six-year-old could do it. All you have to do is wipe it over your skin, and in a few hours an even tan appears without any mess or smell. The solution dries quickly, and a single application produces a subtle honey colour that lasts around seven days. If you want a deeper colour, add applications or use a TanTowel Plus which contains a darker solution.

TanTowels come in regular and evolution sizes, the latter being bigger and therefore ideal for the Full Body Tan. They are also a great option if you're travelling as they take up hardly any space in your luggage. Visit www.tantowel.com.au.

Testimonials

Loving It!
I have been using Tan Towel for over a year.........and I love it!!!! It looks completely natural...and it is so easy to apply. No drying time...doesn't stain my elbows, knees or clothes!! I have no idea how you did it - but bless you! I work for a company who sells self tanners. Let's just say they have nothing on Tan Towel!!! People ask me all the time - "where have you been...you are so tan!!!" I come clean and say I owe it all to Tan Towel....the best self tanner on the market. Thanks again!!!!! Krista

Short and Sweet:
I am addicted to tantowels! They are wonderful, no streaking, no fake color, dries fast.....and they don't stain my clothing and bedding! They are fabulous! Thank you all for making them available!
BF

Weekend Getaway Story:
I am emailing you first to tell you I am a loyal customer and huge fan of your 'tantowel' product line. I have been using tantowels for over a year and have been continually complimented on my tan. In fact, during the winter months I have been forced to invent "weekend getaway" stories to validate my realistic color. Thanks for producing such a great product! Thanks for your time and again, thanks for a superior product. (Also, if you have any excuses I could use to justify my great tan with your product, I could use some new ideas.)
Best regards,
EH

Totally Rapt!
I have previously ordered Tantowel from you direct and am totally rapt in the product and would like to know where I can purchase this product in Sydney.
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