Self Tanner? What does your doc say?

Mc_Babymaker · March 2010

I have an apointment with my doc for an NST on tuesday, and i'm planning on asking her at this point. But, I'm so pasty and dying just to get a little color on my legs. (i'm blond/blue eyes, very pale skin, that doesn't really tan in the sun, just burns) So just being outside and soaking up so rays(with sunscreen) does nothing for me except make me pink :-(

What does your doc say about self tanner? I know the the FDA leaves it up the manufacturer to decide if they want to put warning lables on their products about use while pregnant... but i don't trust the companies to choose that. I wish it were a requirement across the board.

Any insight?

tlmommy2b:) · March 2010

didn't ask my doc b/c its not a big deal to me to be tan. I would just wait the 10 weeks until your LO arrives

AllieJean · March 2010

Really I wouldnt think it would be any worse than things that are in makeup or other body soaps and things. But at the same time, I dont care that much about being tan, Ive always been fair complected though so I will just wait for summer!

collrob2101 · March 2010

Found this online!

Expert Answers

Sandra Johnson, dermatologist

If you're not feeling attractive during pregnancy, the look of sun-kissed skin may do wonders for your self-esteem. The good news is that the ingredients in self-tanners are harmless, so it's fine to use them during pregnancy. These lotions and sprays are basically dyes that stay on the surface of your skin and won't harm your developing baby. Best of all, self-tanners have improved dramatically over the past few years, so you don't have to worry about looking like an extra from Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory.

From a Bottle: This may be the best option if you are pregnant. Avoiding UV rays will ensure healthier skin and less chance of skin cancer, hives or worsened chloasma. There are so many different kinds of sunless tanning lotions, creams, and foams that have very good results. Many of the new varieties have minimal odor and provide immediate color.

The only concern is whether the active ingredient, dihydroxyacetone (DHA), is able to penetrate the skin. Studies do not confirm that it can, but some health care providers encourage women to wait until after the first trimester, just to play it safe. DHA has been used in cosmetics since 1960 and no problems have been reported. Even if you have used sunless tanners before, try a patch of skin first. Your skin may be more sensitive and irritable during pregnancy.

Mc_Babymaker · March 2010

oh i don't care about being "tan"... but i am so pasty and pale, i look sickly. It's espacially bad on my legs. I just would like to have a little color for my baby shower, since i will be wearing a spring dress.

If my doc says the lotion is a no-go then i won't do it. But it would just be nice not to look like the walking dead for a speacial occasion.

Starfish113 · March 2010

I read an article on BabyCenter today that said it's okay

Taylor11 · March 2010

It's fine. There is no proof or research that it can affect you. I have had 3 spray tans since BP. I think the main issue would be w/inhaling the fumes for an extended period of time. You probably put lotions, makeups, creams, etc w/chemicals on your skin all the time that contain similar ingredients and don't even realize it.