Your Complete Pregnancy Safe Self-Tan Guide

A whopping 90% of women perceive tan as more attractive than pale skin, a study reveals. Pregnant women are not spared from these bronzing desires. With an ever-expanding circumference and the evolving role of your body – self-tan could be just what you need when adapting to these changes.

The sun is not even an option because there’s no such thing as a healthy suntan. And let’s not dare think of sunbeds, which lead us to the last option: fake tan. We know that when it comes to cosmetics and skincare, there are various ingredients to avoid when you’re pregnant. But is your self-tanner safe to reach for?

In this guide, we will answer one common question: Can you fake tan while pregnant? Here’s a look at pregnancy-safe fake tan, the safest ways to get a golden glow, and harmful ingredients you must avoid.

Can you fake tan while pregnant?

Yes, but with exceptions. The NHS guidelines say using fake tan creams and lotions during pregnancy is generally considered safe with correct and careful application. It's probably best to avoid spray tan when pregnant, because inhaling the spray's effects are unknown.

Can self-tanning cause congenital disabilities?

Chemicals found in fake tan

Expecting and nursing mothers are advised to avoid spray tan when pregnant and tanning booths. There is no proof that self-tanners cause direct harm to babies, although authorities caution against their usage.

Experts say the biggest concern with spray tans is that you can easily inhale or ingest the solution, which means DHA (dihydroxyacetone—a chemical derived from sugar that gives tanners their colour when it comes into contact with your skin) is getting into your lungs and then into your bloodstream.

The only way that DHA could affect the baby is if it enters through the placenta or is applied to one of your mucous membranes. The FDA states that DHA shouldn’t be used in areas covered by mucous membranes, including the lips, nose, or eyes.

When it comes to fake tan and breastfeeding, there is no need to avoid self-tanners as they cannot contaminate the breast milk. However, ensure your tanner is fully dry before allowing contact with your baby to avoid staining their skin or causing an allergic reaction.

Our tip: Do an allergy patch test for pregnancy-safe fake tan.

Experts recommend doing a patch test first as pregnancy hormones can change your potential to react – and it may be more sensitive than usual.

Also, many self-tanners are scented or coloured, so it’s better to check you don’t react to its ingredients.

You need to apply a small amount of product to a patch of skin and see if you experience any irritation.

What is the best fake tan when pregnant?

Our safest bet for the best fake tan when pregnant is self-tanning through external application in the form of gels, lotions and creams as DHA is made of large molecules, making it difficult to penetrate the skin. In addition, it doesn’t absorb beyond the first layer of skin.

Clarins’ self-tanning products are pregnancy-approved and suitable for all skin types. The sunless tan range comes in three textures – liquid drops, milky lotion and gel – to suit you. Say hello to an easy, streak-free tan in just four hours.

Products are all formulated with 99% natural origin and are powered with Clarins self-tan complex, a combination of naturally sourced DHA and erythrulose. Plus aloe vera and figs extract for a boost of hydration.

Liquid drops:

The Radiance-Plus Golden Glow Booster is a product you could incorporate into your daily skincare routine whenever you feel like having a natural bronzing glow.

For the body – Mix four to six drops with your body care product – it works best with Moisture-Rich Body Lotion. Wash hands after applying. You can tailor it to your desired level of tan by increasing or lessening the number of drops.

For the face – Mix two or three tanning drops with any face care products, ideally day or night creams.

Lotion:

Self Tanning Milky Lotion can be used on the face and body. It has a creamy, milky texture that melts when applied. The organic fig extract leaves the skin ultra-hydrated for up to 24 hours.

After exfoliating and using body moisturiser to lightly soften the skin, apply the tanning lotion in a circular motion, buffing it into the skin so there is no residue. Avoid eyebrows and the hairline, and always wash hands after using.

Gels:

Self Tanning Instant Gel can be used both on the face and body. This intense, instant self-tanner has a fresh, light gel texture and doesn’t leave an oily feel. Use the same method as self-tan lotion. Use SPF -pregnant or not- for inevitable days under the sun.