The Scoop on Self-Tanners

May 23, 2005 — -- While it may not be bathing suit season everywhere yet, it's warm enough for skirts and short sleeves -- and for many people, that means baring pasty-looking winter skin.

More than 1.3 million new cases of skin cancer were diagnosed in the United States last year so staying safe in the sun is more important than ever. Lucy Danziger, editor of Self magazine, joined "Good Morning America" to talk about how to get a safe suntan from a bottle, and three different self-tanning products were tested on volunteers.

How do self-tanners work?

DHA, which comes from sugar, is the ingredient that turns the skin brown. Danziger said the newest self-tanners on the market have refined DHA so they won't give you orange or streaky skin, and you can choose a shade that best suits your skin tone.

Are self-tanners safe?

Every dermatologist that Self has interviewed says DHA is harmless and only temporarily tints the skin, Danziger said. But remember you still need sunscreen when you go out, because self-tanners won't protect you from harmful UV rays and sunburn.

What about going to a spray-tanning salon?

They can do an excellent job, Danziger said, but if applied correctly, self-tanners can provide a great result at home without costing a lot of money.

Tips on applying self-tanners:

Exfoliate skin first.

Apply moisturizer.

Use rubber gloves.

Apply self-tanner evenly, being especially careful around ankles, knees and elbows.

Products tested on "GMA":

Clinique Radiant Bronze Face & Body Lotion. Costs about $17.50.

California Tan Sunless Foam. Costs about $20.

Tan Airbrush-in-a-Can Spray. Costs about $32.