Instead of the pregnancy glow they were expecting, many pregnant women experience bloating, weight gain, stretch marks and breakouts that make them feel unattractive. Sunless tanning products may help these women feel prettier and boost their confidence about their new pregnant bodies.
Types
Sunless tanning products come in the form of lotions, creams, foams and sprays. These products are widely available in drugstores, department stores and supermarkets. The active ingredient in most of these products is dihydroxyacetone, or DHA. It begins working when it comes into contact with the amino acids in the skin.
Considerations
Although no research suggests that sunless tanning products are harmful during pregnancy, no studies have proven them safe, either. The American Pregnancy Association notes the main concern is whether the DHA in sunless tanning products can penetrate the skin and affect the developing baby. Women may want to consider waiting to use these products until after the first trimester, when the fetus is the most vulnerable. Women should always do their own research and talk to a doctor before deciding if they feel comfortable with using these products during pregnancy.
Misconceptions
Pregnancy causes many physical changes, sunless tanning products may not work the same as they did before. Women may find their skin is more irritable or sensitive during pregnancy, and even sunless tanning products that they have used for years may trigger a reaction. The March of Dimes notes that pregnant women may want to test sunless tanning products on a small area of skin to see if there is a reaction before applying it to the rest of the body.
Alternatives
Pregnant women who feel uncomfortable with the potential risks of sunless tanning do have options. Body and facial bronzers are good alternatives, suggests the Nemours Foundation's KidsHealth.org website. These bronzers are available in the makeup section of most department stores, drugstores and supermarkets. They are usually about the same price as sunless tanning products and are easy to apply.
Warning
Sunless spray-tanning booths may be riskier for pregnant women than other sunless tanning products. The Food and Drug Administration has concerns about the DHA in the mist of these booths entering the mucus membranes, eyes, nostrils and mouths of those who use them. Precautions such as protective eyewear and nose plugs help minimize these risks, but women may want to consider avoiding these machines completely during pregnancy until more research is available.
References
- American Pregnancy Association: Tanning Methods
- March of Dimes: Can I Use Self-Tanning Lotions or Sprays When I'm Pregnant?
- BabyCenter: Is it Safe to Use Self-Tanning Lotions or Tanning Beds During Pregnancy?
- Nemours Foundation: Kids Health: Pregnancy Precautions
- Food and Drug Administration: Sunless Tanners and Bronzers
