I need articles on the technology behind tan through (or tan thru)
swimsuits and the like.  How does the process work, etc.?  Preferably
two or three articles (more is fine) from different sources.  Articles
with illustrations would also be good.  Answer will be rated.  Thanks!

Hi xemion,

Very interesting question - didn't know these fabrics existed... just
might invest in a swimsuit for me!  More than swimsuits are made using
this technology such as shorts, shirts, and beach umbrellas.

This site has a list of FAQ's (frequently asked questions) including
how and where the fabric is made, etc.,
http://www.tanthrusuits.com/tanthru101.cfm  

And this company manufactures beach umbrellas.  "Complex
light-absorbing chemicals are bonded into the Sunselect fabric to
create a unique non-applied barrier for sunburn protection."

"The American Food and Drug Association, an extremely strict
organisation for the protection of the consumer, has classified
Sunselect as a 'Medical Device'."
http://www.greenplanet.com.au/products/sunsel/sunsel.htm

And here: 
Apparently the "secret is Microsol and MicrosolV, new lightweight
fabrics that let sunlight through like a medium level sunscreen,
eliminating the need for messy oils and lotions. You'll get a tan
about as fast as you would with an SPF#6 sunscreen, and you'll never
have to risk unprotected exposure to the sun."
http://www.tanthrough.com/

And here:
http://www.worldwideaquatics.com/catalog/default.asp?PID=1571

search terms used "swimsuits tan through"

Good Luck,

tlspiegel-ga

excellent.  exactly what I was looking for!

Happy to help - it was interesting!  :)

tlspiegel-ga

What an awful invention!

I am highly anti-tan, and think the sooner our society loses the
"tanned is healthy" mind-set, the better we will be.  Skin cancer is a
serious problem worldwide, perhaps more so here in Australia than
elsewhere.  And DON'T get me started on "sunbeds!"

I have been pleased to see in recent years the "Sunblocking" swimwear,
especially for children.  I wear one myself.

"You'll get a tan about as fast as you would with an SPF#6 sunscreen,
and you'll never have to risk unprotected exposure to the sun."

Yes, but if you forget about tanning altogether, you can slap on the
SPF30+ and a sun-proof swimsuit, and reduce your risk of skin cancer!

My Rant for Today!
A.

Amen, araminty. 

FYI, here is a source of sun protection clothing, information, and related links:

SunProtected.Com
http://www.sunprotected.com/

A final word to the wizened: if you must tan, don't tan drunk.

huntsman  B-)