Dove Fake Tan: Safe During Pregnancy?

If you're yearning for a gorgeous tan while pregnant, you'll be glad to know that many fake tanning products are considered safe to use. However, it's important to understand the potential risks and take the necessary precautions. The active ingredient in most fake tans is dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a non-toxic substance that reacts with cells in the outermost layer of the skin to produce a brown pigment called melanoidin. While DHA is generally safe, there are some concerns about its inhalation during spray tans, and some fake tans contain ingredients that should be avoided during pregnancy. So, while you can still achieve a golden glow, it's crucial to be well-informed and cautious about the products and methods you choose.

Dove fake tan is safe to use during pregnancy

If you're yearning for a gorgeous tan while pregnant, you'll be glad to know that fake tanning products, including Dove's Summer Revived Gradual Tanning Mousse, are considered safe to use.

The active ingredient in fake tan is dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a non-toxic substance that interacts with cells in the outermost layer of the skin, producing a brown pigment called melanoidin. As DHA is not thought to go beyond the outer layer of skin, it isn't absorbed into the body and therefore can't harm your baby.

What to Avoid

Sprays are still a popular choice in the tanning world, but according to NHS guidelines, it's best to avoid spray tans when pregnant as the effects of inhaling DHA are not yet known. So, it's better to stick to fake tans that you can apply by rubbing, not spraying.

Patch Testing

Pregnancy hormones can make your skin more sensitive, leaving you prone to allergic reactions. So, it's a good idea to do a patch test before using any fake tan product, even if you've used it before.

Other Considerations

Your sense of smell may be heightened during pregnancy, so the distinctive fake tan aroma can become overwhelming. Opt for fragrance-free or natural, organic products to avoid this.

The Bottom Line

You can fake tan while pregnant, but always bear these tips in mind:

• Use mousses, lotions, creams, masks or wipes.
• Avoid spray tans and tanning booths.
• Do a patch test to check for reactions.
• Talk to your GP if you're still unsure.

The active ingredient in fake tan is non-toxic

The active ingredient in fake tan is dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a non-toxic substance that reacts with the amino acids in the outermost layer of the epidermis, called the stratum corneum, to produce a brown pigment called melanoidin (or melanoids). Discovered in the late 1920s by German scientists, DHA was found to turn the surface of the skin brown when it accidentally spilled onto the body during X-ray sessions. Further research in the 1950s confirmed that DHA was non-toxic and only coloured the outermost layer of the skin.

DHA was added to the Food and Drug Administration's list of approved cosmetic ingredients in the 1970s, leading to the creation of many sunless tanning products. The higher the concentration of DHA in a fake tanning product, the deeper the tan will be. However, users can opt for lotions with a lower concentration and add more layers to achieve their desired colour.

DHA is considered safe for use during pregnancy as it does not penetrate beyond the outer layer of the skin and is therefore not absorbed into the body. As such, it cannot harm an unborn baby. However, it is important to note that some people may experience an allergic reaction to fake tan products, and this sensitivity can be heightened during pregnancy due to changing hormone levels.

While DHA in fake tan products is generally safe, it is recommended to avoid spray tans or tanning booths as the effects of inhaling the spray are not known, and DHA can be absorbed into the bloodstream through the lungs. To minimise this risk, it is advisable to stick to self-tan products that can be rubbed into the skin rather than sprayed. Additionally, it is always recommended to perform a patch test on a small area of skin before using any new product.

Avoid tanning pills and injections

Tanning pills and injections are a big no-no during pregnancy. Not only are they unsafe for pregnant women, but they are also illegal and banned in the UK.

Tanning pills are often sold online and may contain large amounts of colour additives (carotenoids), such as beta-carotene or canthaxanthin, which could be harmful to your unborn baby. These additives are commonly used as food colourings and can be toxic to a developing foetus. The NHS warns that tanning pills "contain ingredients that may be toxic to an unborn baby".

Tanning injections, often called melanotan, are unlicensed and illegal to sell in the UK. They are artificial hormones that stimulate the production of pigment cells in your skin, making it look darker. However, they have not been adequately tested for safety or quality, so there is a risk they could contain other harmful chemicals.

To ensure the safety of you and your baby, it is best to avoid tanning pills and injections altogether, both during pregnancy and after giving birth.

Spray tans are not recommended during pregnancy

DHA is a non-toxic substance that reacts with cells in the outermost layer of the skin to produce a brown pigment called melanoidin. It is not thought to go beyond the outer layer of the skin and, therefore, is not absorbed into the body, meaning it cannot harm an unborn baby. However, the effects of inhaling DHA are not known, and it is possible that tiny particles may enter the mouth or nose during the spraying process.

To minimise the risk of inhaling DHA, it is recommended to avoid spray tans and stick to fake tan creams, lotions, mousses, gels, or wipes that can be rubbed into the skin rather than sprayed. These alternative options are generally considered safe to use during pregnancy, as DHA is not absorbed in significant amounts through the skin and is not known to cause harm to the baby.

Additionally, it is important to note that tanning pills and injections should be avoided during pregnancy, as they can pose a risk to both the mother and the baby. Tanning pills, which are banned in the UK, may contain large amounts of colour additives that could be toxic to an unborn baby. Meanwhile, tanning injections, often called melanotan, are illegal to sell in the UK as they are unlicensed and have not been adequately tested for safety.

Patch testing is essential

When it comes to fake tan, patch testing is a crucial step, especially during pregnancy. Here's why:

Pregnancy Hormones and Skin Sensitivity:

Pregnancy brings about various physical changes, and one of them is increased skin sensitivity. The hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy can make your skin more reactive to products, including tanning solutions. Patch testing helps you identify any potential allergies or adverse reactions to the product. This is important because even if you've used a particular fake tan product before without issues, your skin's response can be different during pregnancy.

Avoiding Allergic Reactions:

Fake tan products contain various ingredients, and while generally considered safe, there is always a risk of an allergic reaction. Patch testing helps you determine if you are allergic to any of the ingredients in the product. This is crucial because an allergic reaction during pregnancy can be more severe and impact not only your health but also that of your baby. A patch test gives you peace of mind and ensures that you are not exposing yourself or your baby to unnecessary risks.

Identifying Safe Ingredients:

Not all fake tan products are created equal. Some products may contain ingredients that are potentially harmful during pregnancy, such as parabens and phthalates. Parabens are preservatives that have been linked to hormone disruption, while phthalates, often used for fragrance, have been associated with potential developmental issues. By patch testing and carefully reviewing the ingredients, you can choose products that are labelled as paraben-free and phthalate-free, minimising any potential risks to you and your baby.

Safe Application Techniques:

Patch testing also helps you determine the best application technique for your skin during pregnancy. For example, experts recommend avoiding aerosol or spray tans during pregnancy, as the fine mist can be easily inhaled, and the effects of inhaling the spray are not yet fully understood. By patch testing, you can opt for safer alternatives, such as mousses, lotions, gels, or creams, which are considered safer by experts as they are applied by rubbing rather than spraying.

Professional Insurance and Peace of Mind:

For professionals offering spray tanning services, patch testing is not just a good idea—it's essential for insurance purposes. Even if your client insists they don't need a patch test, performing one protects you and your business. Reactions to tanning products are rare, but they can be severe, and you don't want to risk a lawsuit or, worse, a client's health. A simple patch test can help you identify any potential issues and ensure that your clients have a safe and positive experience.

Frequently asked questions