Potential Risk: Spray Tanning While Pregnant, Is It Safe?

Congratulations on your journey to motherhood! Just as pregnancy is a blossoming journey, so too can your skin radiate with a sunless tan that mirrors the warmth and glow of the sun itself. 

Pregnancy is a remarkable time filled with anticipation and joy, and as an expectant mother, you deserve to look and feel your best throughout this transformative experience. Amidst the hormonal changes and the growing baby bump, maintaining a radiant and beautiful glow can do wonders for your self-confidence and overall well-being. 

I understand the concerns and misconceptions that often arise when it comes to spray tanning while pregnant. However, when done carefully, rest assured, dear moms-to-be, that transitioning effortlessly from the warmth of a natural glow to the worry-free world of spray tanning is a delightful choice for expectant mothers. Not only does it offer a safe haven from harmful UV rays, but it also eliminates the risks associated with traditional tanning methods, such as sunbeds and excessive sun exposure. 

Bid adieu to worries about sunburns and potential skin damage, and say hello to a healthy, pregnancy-friendly alternative that allows you to maintain that sun-kissed look you adore.

Can You Get A Spray Tan While Pregnant, Is It Safe?

Yes, you can absolutely get a spray tan while pregnant, provided you take safety precautions that will prevent you from inhaling the mist. 

There has not been any research to prove that getting spray tanned will harm you or your baby, and neither has there been any research that says it won’t. A lot of people claim inhaling it is a concern because of the active DHA ingredient, while that may not be far from the truth but there’s still no research that says inhaling it will harm you or your fetus. Inhaling the spray tan mist which contains DHA is a grey area we simply do not know the long-term side effect if it has any.

We however know that there have been thousands of pregnant women that have gotten spray tan repeatedly during pregnancy and they are fine with their baby. We also know that the eCFR approves the use of DHA (Dihydroxyacetone) to be used to impart a color to the human body, which is what is used in spray tanning.

Of course, many pregnant women wonder about the safety of spray tanning during their trimesters. The good news is that spray tanning is considered a safe and popular alternative to traditional sun tanning for expectant mothers. It allows you to achieve a beautiful and natural-looking glow without exposing your skin to harmful UV rays.

If you have used a spray tan or other cosmetic products and have a severe adverse effect you can report it to the FDA here

10 Safety Precautions When Spray Tanning While Pregnant

When it comes to the safety of spray tanning during pregnancy, it’s crucial to prioritize making choices that support both your well-being and that of your growing baby.

While spray tanning is generally safe for pregnant women, it’s important to be aware of potential risks and take necessary precautions. 

1. Consult healthcare professionals: Always consult with your healthcare provider before getting a spray tan during pregnancy. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific circumstances and ensure it aligns with your overall prenatal care.

2. No spray tanning during the first trimester: Avoid spray tanning during the first trimester, as this is a critical time for fetal development. Although there is limited scientific evidence regarding the risks of spray tanning during pregnancy, it’s always wise to err on the side of caution.

3. Ensure proper ventilation: To further minimize potential risks, ensure proper ventilation in the tanning salon or area where the spray tanning takes place. Proper ventilation helps reduce exposure to any fumes and minimize inhalation of any potentially harmful fumes that may be present during the tanning process.
   
4. Conduct a patch test: Perform a patch test before applying any new tanning product. Spray a small amount of the product on a small area of the skin and wait for any adverse reactions, such as redness, itching, or irritation. If any negative reactions occur, discontinue use.
   
5. Cover sensitive areas: Use disposable undergarments or protective barriers to cover sensitive areas, such as the nipples and genital area, to avoid direct exposure to the tanning solution.
   
6. Protect your eyes, lips, and mucous membranes: Shield your eyes with protective goggles or eyewear, wear and use a nose plug, and also apply a lip balm to protect your lips. Doing that will help lower your risk of inhaling or ingesting the tanning solutions.
   
7. Follow application instructions: Read and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer of the tanning product carefully. This includes guidelines for application, recommended waiting time before showering, and any other specific instructions for pregnant women.
   
8. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water before and after your spray tan session to stay hydrated. Hydration can help maintain healthy skin and prevent excessive dryness or irritation.
   
9. Avoid excessive exposure: Limit your exposure to the tanning solution. Follow the recommended development time and avoid reapplying the product excessively, as it may increase the absorption of chemicals into the skin.
   
10. Monitor your skin: Pay attention to any changes in your skin after spray tanning. If you notice any unusual or concerning reactions, such as severe irritation, rash, or allergic symptoms, discontinue the spray tan session and contact your healthcare provider for further guidance.

Remember, every pregnancy is unique, and it’s important to prioritize the health and well-being of both you and your baby. Following these precautions and seeking advice from your healthcare provider will help ensure a safe spray tanning experience during pregnancy.

9 Benefits of Spray Tanning During Pregnancy

There are several tanning options, but one of the safest and most popular options that expectant mothers can consider is spray tanning. With its UV-free formula, spray tanning offers numerous benefits for pregnant women. 

The benefits of spray tanning during pregnancy include:

1. Natural-looking glow: Spray tanning provides a natural-looking glow without exposing the skin to harmful UV rays. This means you can achieve a sun-kissed appearance without worrying about potential sun damage or pigmentation issues during pregnancy. 

2. Positive body image: This tanning method allows you to maintain a positive body image during this transformative time, boosting your self-confidence and overall well-being. It’s able to do this because it aligns with your prenatal care regimen and helps you feel beautiful and radiant throughout your pregnancy journey.

3. Safe alternative: Spray tanning provides a safe alternative to sun exposure and tanning beds, which can be harmful due to increased sensitivity to UV radiation during pregnancy.

4. Pregnancy skincare: Spray tanning solutions are formulated with pregnancy-safe ingredients, helping you avoid potentially harmful chemicals and ensuring the well-being of both you and your baby.

5. Natural-looking tan: By choosing the right shade and application technique, spray tanning offers a natural-looking tan that enhances your skin’s appearance, giving you a healthy glow.

6. Confidence booster: Maintaining your desired appearance can positively impact your self-esteem and body image during pregnancy, helping you feel more confident and comfortable in your changing body.

7. Time-efficient: Spray tanning sessions are typically quick and convenient, allowing you to fit them into your busy pregnancy schedule without compromising other commitments.

8. Customizable options: Spray tanning offers customizable options to suit your preferences, whether you prefer a subtle, sun-kissed look or a deeper, bronzed tone.

9. Temporary and reversible: The effects of spray tanning are temporary and gradually fade over time, giving you the flexibility to experiment with different looks or return to your natural skin tone if desired.

By incorporating spray tanning into your pregnancy skincare routine, you can enjoy the benefits of a beautiful, sunless tan while prioritizing the safety and well-being of both you and your baby.

Safe Spray Tanning Alternative Tanning Methods for Pregnant Women

It’s understandable that you have become skeptical about getting a spray tan during pregnancy after reading several takes and listening to advice from friends, so let’s explore other safe spray tanning alternatives for pregnant women.

1. Gradual Tanning Lotions: Gradual tanning lotions are designed to build up a natural-looking tan over time. They contain ingredients that interact with the skin’s surface to provide a subtle color change. Look for pregnancy-safe formulations without harmful chemicals or strong fragrances.

2. Bronzing Powders: Bronzing powders are a temporary solution to achieve a sun-kissed glow. They can be applied to the body using a brush or puff, providing a matte or shimmery effect. Choose products that are specifically formulated for sensitive skin and are free from harmful additives.

3. Tinted Moisturizers: Tinted moisturizers offer a subtle hint of color while providing hydration to the skin. These products blend moisturizing ingredients with a touch of tint, helping to even out skin tone and provide a natural glow. Opt for formulations that are gentle and non-comedogenic.

4. Body Makeup: Body makeup, such as body bronzers or tinted body creams, can be applied to specific areas or all over the body for temporary color enhancement. These products can be easily washed off and provide an instant tan without the need for UV exposure. Look for non-toxic and pregnancy-safe options.

5. Airbrush Tanning: Airbrush tanning involves a technician spraying a tanning solution onto the skin using an airbrush gun. It offers a customizable and natural-looking tan without the need for UV rays. Confirm that the tanning solution used is pregnancy-friendly and doesn’t contain harmful ingredients.

6. Tanning Wipes: Tanning wipes are pre-moistened towelettes that contain a self-tanning solution. They are convenient and easy to use, allowing you to apply the tanning product evenly across your body. Choose wipes that are specifically labeled as safe for use during pregnancy.

Remember to not use any tanning product in your first trimester and always patch test any new tanning product on a small area of your skin. Do not forget to consult with your healthcare provider before trying any new beauty treatments during pregnancy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)