Can you get a spray tan while pregnant?
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- Self tanners are considered overall safe to use during pregnancy. As with any other product, some people may experience occasional skin rashes or allergies. Your favorite self tanner is here to stay unless it contains some of the potentially dangerous ingredients: parabens, phthalates, or fragrances.
- Spray tans are a bit more tricky. The chances of inhaling the self tanner are high. Make sure to follow the safety guidelines if planning to get a spray tan.
Have you already ditched your favorite retinol? Now, you might be wondering, what else can I not use? The self-tanner might be the next one to go and you are just not ready to embrace the pale look.
All jokes aside – we get it. Pregnancy is a beautiful, but worrisome journey. You might be concerned about the safety of self-tanners, whether they can hurt your baby, and if the ingredients can cause any trouble. On top of the never-ending nausea or perhaps the swollen ankles, nobody needs a skin irritation or worse, a full-blown allergic reaction.
There is a lot to think about, but don’t give up on bronze glow just yet. Read on to learn all about different self-tanners, how they work, safety information, tips for pregnancy tanning, and alternatives to fake tan.
What are self-tanners and how do they work?
Self-tanners are products that, when applied to the skin, develop over the next few hours and give you a tanned appearance. The skin gets brownish and glowy, mimicking the color of a natural tan. Self-tanning is the best way to get that sun-kissed look, without actually getting into the sun.
But, how is that possible? The main active ingredient of sunless tanning products is a colorless sugar called dihydroxyacetone (DHA). When applied to the skin, DHA reacts with amino acids in the surface layer of the skin to create pigmented end-products. Since the magic happens only at the surface of the skin, which tends to peel off over time, a fake tan does not last very long.
Self-tanners have evolved over the years. Today, there are many great options: lotions, creams, gels, mousses, and sprays. Spray tanning is particularly popular because of its convenience and natural-looking results. It can be done at a salon or in the comfort of your home. It normally involves using a spray gun, airbrush, or an automated booth, to apply a fine mist of the self-tanning solution to the skin.
What ingredients are found in self-tanners?
Aside from using different ingredients to achieve a particular consistency, all self-tanners are based on DHA. The more intense the browning effect, the more DHA a product will contain. Modern self-tanning products have between 1 and 15% of DHA. Sometimes, self-tanners will also contain an ingredient called erythrulose. This is another natural sugar that, when blended with DHA, helps produce a tan that is more natural-looking and long-lasting.
Other common ingredients include:
- moisturizes such as glycerin that help hydrate the skin
- ingredients that improve product consistency: emulsifiers (such as Cetearyl alcohol or polysorbates), solvents (such as phthalates), and thickeners (such as carbomer and xanthan gum)
- preservatives (such as parabens) used to prolong the shelf life of products
- antioxidants and vitamins (such as vitamins E and C) used to protect your skin from damage caused by free radicals
- colorants that give color to the product and help guide application
- fragrances that mask the bad-smelling DHA
Are self tanners safe for pregnancy?
The good news for all our gorgeous soon-to-be mamas: self-tanning is considered safe during pregnancy. Think about the way these products work: DHA acts on the surface layer of the skin, also known as the stratum corneum. This part of the skin is a physical barrier between your body and the outer world. A research review revealed that little of DHA, when applied to the skin, actually gets into your bloodstream.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved DHA (and DHA only) for self-tanning. Still, pay close attention to the instructions for use. You should only apply self-tanners on the skin and avoid breathing in or ingesting them, as well as getting them in your eyes, lips, and other mucous membranes. Applying self-tanners to these body parts is not evaluated or approved by the FDA.
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What can go wrong when you self-tan?
Self-tanning products, like any other cosmetics products or drugs, can cause side effects in some people. The FDA notes that people who self-tan sometimes experience rashes and other forms of skin allergies. Those who get spray tans sometimes report coughing, dizziness, or fainting (FDA).
A study that reviewed the safety of sunless tanning products also describes several cases of people experiencing rashes, skin redness, itchiness, and pain to the touch, on body areas that were exposed to the self-tanning products.
Can you self tan while pregnant?
You might be wondering: is self tanner safe for pregnancy? The answer is: it really depends. Although self-tanning and spray-tanning are generally safe for most pregnant women, you should pay attention to a few important things.
Pregnancy comes with a cocktail of intense hormones that might make your body more sensitive to various chemicals. It’s important to read the labels and see if your favorite sun-tanning lotion contains some of the following ingredients:
- Parabens. These chemicals are a great way to make your self-tanning product safe for use after opening, but they can also disrupt your hormones.To keep yourself and your baby healthy, only go for paraben-free self-tanners.
- Phthalates. These compounds can smooth the texture of the product and make it feel nicer but also mess up your hormonal balance.
- Fragrances. There is nothing wrong with having a product that smells good, but artificial fragrances can make your skin more sensitive to other allergy-causing substances and disrupt your hormones.
A study investigated the presence of well-known contact allergens in 44 self-tanning products. It found an average of 11.86 allergens in each of the analyzed products. The most common allergens were fragrances and other plant-derived substances, present even in some products that were labeled as “fragrance-free”. The researchers also found propylene glycol, vitamin E, polysorbate 80, and benzyl alcohol.
Some product formulations were safer than others. According to the same study, foams/mousses contained fewer allergens compared to lotions, water-based sprays/liquids, oil-based sprays/liquids, and drops.
So, can you fake tan while pregnant? As long as you stay away from potentially harmful ingredients and use the self-tanning product the right way, there should be nothing wrong with having a bronzed look while expecting.
Can you get a spray tan while pregnant?
A lot of expecting moms love spray tanning. It’s easy, quick, and gives great results. If you are far along in your pregnancy, it might be hard to move around, bend, and reach every part of your body. We understand! But, can you actually get a spray tan while pregnant?
The answer is yes, although you need to take extra precautions and understand that other product formulations might be safer for you at the moment. Here is why: you are more likely to breathe in the spray tan particles which should, ideally, only be placed on your skin. This is the reason why some experts suggest avoiding spray tans during pregnancy or at least during the first trimester, and some women go for lotions or mousses instead.
If you are still up for it, make sure to avoid getting the little spray particles inside of your body. You should not breathe in the aerosol, get it into your mouth or eyes, or onto your genital mucus membranes.
Guidelines for safe self-tanning during pregnancy
Self-tanning during pregnancy is safe if done correctly. Here are a few pro tips for self-tanning while expecting:
- Choose your product wisely. Make sure there are no potentially harmful ingredients. Lotions, foams, and mousses will give you the most control and enable precise application (Kay and Wilson).
- Do a patch test. Apply the product on a small area of the skin first and wait to see if it responds in an odd way. If you notice redness, itchiness, irritation, or swelling, do not apply the product anywhere else.
- If you are looking to get a spray tan, use protection and ventilate. Wear nose plugs or a mask, add protective eyewear, and place undergarments to protect the mucous membranes of the genitals. Make sure the room is well-ventilated, to reduce the chances of inhaling the tanning mist. Consider getting a spray tan done by a professional, instead of doing it yourself at home.
Getting a fake tan might be more comfortable at certain times of your pregnancy than at others. Let’s break it down:
- First trimester. This might be the most risky time, as the baby is rapidly developing and very vulnerable to external impacts. You might be experiencing intense nausea and sensitivity to smells, and to be honest, self-tanning products don’t always smell great. It is the best idea to consult with a healthcare professional about getting a self-tan during the first trimester.
- Second trimester. Usually considered to be the safest and most comfortable period during pregnancy. If you are feeling fine, go for it!
- Third trimester. Your personal comfort might prevent you from getting a fake tan at this time. Standing for a long time might become hard and your skin might be stretched out and extra sensitive. Avoid scheduling around your due date.
Alternatives to self-tanning for pregnant women
If you are still not sure if self-tanning is safe during pregnancy and might want to skip it altogether, there are other options to still look like your usual, tanned self. These methods will give you a very temporary tan that washes off, so you can be sure that there will be no long-term effects on your own and your baby’s health.
Safe alternatives to self-tanning include:
- Bronzers. Bronzing products are becoming increasingly popular. A lot of brands are coming out with updated, improved formulations: liquids, creams, and powders. You can use your fingers, large brushes, or sponges to apply the bronzer and achieve an immediate tanned effect.
- Body makeup. Usually used to cover imperfections or add color to large body areas like legs, arms, shoulders, or chest. You can apply body makeup with your hands, large brushes, or sponges. Make sure the product dries down completely before getting dressed!
Don’t forget to look for natural bronzers and body makeup that contain no harmful chemicals. Washable cosmetics can also be packed with allergens, irritants, and harmful hormone disruptors!
The bottom line
We know, pregnancy can change your body in many unexpected ways. There is nothing wrong with wanting to stay glowy and bronzed.
Self-tanners are overall safe for pregnant ladies. Double-check the ingredient list of your favorite products and apply according to the instructions. If you are going with a spray tan, take extra measures of precaution. Make a decision based on how you feel, but also think about the period of your pregnancy. The safest bet: consult with a healthcare professional who will help you stay safe and protected.
References
- FDA. “Sunless Tanners & Bronzers.” The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA), 15 Mar. 2022, https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetic-products/sunless-tanners-bronzers.
- ay, Kristen, and Janice Wilson. “#1 Dermatologist Recommended: A Clinician’s Guide to Self-Tanning.” SKIN The Journal of Cutaneous Medicine, vol. 7, no. 6, 6 Nov. 2023, pp. 1077–89. SKIN, https://doi.org/10.25251/skin.7.6.1.
- Li, Huixia, et al. “Maternal Cosmetics Use during Pregnancy and Risks of Adverse Outcomes: A Prospective Cohort Study.” Scientific Reports, vol. 9, no. 1, May 2019, p. 8030. Nature, https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-019-44546-z.
- Matwiejczuk, Natalia, et al. “Review of the Safety of Application of Cosmetic Products Containing Parabens.” Journal of Applied Toxicology, vol. 40, no. 1, 2020, pp. 176–210. Wiley Online Library, https://doi.org/10.1002/jat.3917.
- Newton, Jazmin, et al. “A Cross-Sectional Review of Contact Allergens in Popular Self-Tanning Products.” International Journal of Women’s Dermatology, vol. 10, no. 1, Mar. 2024, p. e134. LWW Journals, https://doi.org/10.1097/JW9.0000000000000134.
- Owji, Shayan, et al. “Properties and Safety of Topical Dihydroxyacetone in Sunless Tanning Products: A Review.” Photodermatology, Photoimmunology & Photomedicine, vol. 39, no. 6, 2023, pp. 567–72. Wiley Online Library, https://doi.org/10.1111/phpp.12913.
- “Self-Tanners, Tanning Pills, Tanning Booths.” Mother To Baby | Fact Sheets, Organization of Teratology Information Specialists (OTIS), 2021. PubMed, http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK582952/.
- Turner, Josh, et al. “In Search of the Perfect Tan: Chemical Activity, Biological Effects, Business Considerations, and Consumer Implications of Dihydroxyacetone Sunless Tanning Products.” Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, vol. 22, no. 1, 2023, pp. 79–88. Wiley Online Library, https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.14968.
- Yourick, Jeffrey J., et al. “Fate of Chemicals in Skin after Dermal Application: Does the in Vitro Skin Reservoir Affect the Estimate of Systemic Absorption?” Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology, vol. 195, no. 3, Mar. 2004, pp. 309–20. ScienceDirect, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.taap.2003.07.015.
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