Tanologist: Pregnancy Safe?

is tanologist pregnancy safe

Tanologist's self-tanning products are dermatologically approved and suitable for use on the face and body. However, it is unclear whether they are safe for use during pregnancy. While some sources suggest that self-tanning products with dihydroxyacetone (DHA) as the active ingredient are generally safe, others recommend avoiding spray tanning during pregnancy due to the potential inhalation of products. As such, it is always advisable to consult a medical professional before using any self-tanning products during pregnancy.

Characteristics Values
Safety of Tanologist during pregnancy The active ingredient in Tanologist, dihydroxyacetone (DHA), is generally considered safe during pregnancy. However, there is limited scientific data available, and it is recommended to consult a medical professional before use.
Alternative options during pregnancy Lotions, gels, and mousse formulas are recommended over spray tans during pregnancy to avoid inhaling the product.
Suggested precautions Conduct a patch test 24 hours before full application.
Tanologist ingredients Water, Dihydroxyacetone, Alcohol Denat., Glycerin, Xanthan Gum, Hydrolyzed Soybean Fiber, Commiphora Mukul Resin Extract, Coleus Forskohlii Root Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate, Ascorbic Acid, Erythrulose, Panthenol, Aloe Barbadensis Extract, Calendula Officinalis Flower Oil, Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Fruit Extract, Juniperus Communis Fruit Oil, Lycium Barbarum Fruit Extract, Punica Granatum Extract.

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Tanning pills and injections are not safe during pregnancy

Tanning pills, which are sold online, may contain large amounts of colour additives (carotenoids), such as beta-carotene or canthaxanthin, that could harm your unborn baby. Tanning pills are banned in the UK and the US because they are unsafe.

Tanning injections, often called melanotan, are sold online and in some tanning salons. These unlicensed injections are illegal to sell in the UK. Melanotan is an artificial hormone that stimulates the production of pigment cells in your skin, making it look darker. It is unlicensed for use in the UK and has not been tested for safety or quality, which means it could contain other harmful chemicals.

For your own safety and that of your baby, avoid tanning injections, whether you're pregnant or not.

If you're looking for a safe way to tan during pregnancy, self-tanning lotions are generally considered safe. The main chemical in self-tanners, dihydroxyacetone (DHA), does not absorb past the first layer of skin. However, it's always best to check with your doctor before using any self-tanning product.

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Lotions and creams are safer than spray tans

When it comes to sunless tanning during pregnancy, lotions and creams are generally considered safer than spray tans. While the ingredients in self-tanning lotions, creams, and foams are deemed harmless and safe to use during pregnancy, the same cannot be said with certainty about spray tans.

The active ingredient in most fake tan products is dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a non-toxic substance that reacts with the outermost layer of the skin to produce a brown pigment called melanoidin. DHA is considered safe by consumer safety organisations as long as concentrations are at 10% or below. Most self-tanning products fall well below this limit, typically containing 3-5% DHA.

The concern with spray tans is the potential inhalation of DHA. When applied as a lotion or cream, only a negligible amount of DHA is absorbed into the body through the skin. However, if DHA is inhaled through a spray tan, the amount absorbed into the body could be much higher. The effects of inhaling DHA are not yet fully understood, and there is limited data on its safety during pregnancy.

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the risks of inhaling DHA are unknown, and there is no solid body of research to determine if there are any risks associated with it. Therefore, it is recommended that pregnant women avoid spray tans and stick to self-tanning lotions, creams, or foams that can be safely applied at home without the risk of inhalation.

Additionally, it is worth noting that tanning pills and injections should be avoided during pregnancy, as they can pose a risk to both mother and baby. Tanning beds are also not recommended due to the risks associated with ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure.

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Avoid products with extra skincare ingredients that aren't pregnancy-safe

While being pregnant, it's important to be cautious about the products you use. Many skincare ingredients can be harmful to both mother and baby, so it's crucial to avoid certain products and ingredients.

One such ingredient is vitamin A derivatives, including Retin-A, Retinol, and Retinyl Palmitate. These can lead to dangerous birth defects and negatively affect the development of your baby. Tazorac and Accutane, which are prescription medicines, are also vitamin A derivatives that are known to cause birth defects and should be avoided.

Additionally, Benzoyl Peroxide and Salicylic acids, commonly found in acne creams, should be used with caution during pregnancy. While they are generally safe in small amounts, large quantities can have negative consequences.

Essential oils should also be used with caution as they are not assessed by the FDA and do not have strict labelling standards. Some essential oils have been linked to major health concerns during pregnancy, so it's important to consult your doctor before using them.

Another ingredient to avoid is hydroquinone, a common skin lightener. It has a high absorption rate, increasing the likelihood of larger amounts entering the bloodstream and affecting the baby.

Formaldehyde, found in some nail polishes and hair products, has been linked to fertility problems and miscarriage. It's best to stick to nail polishes labelled "3-Free" or "5-Free" and consult with your stylist about the products they use.

When it comes to sunscreens, avoid chemical options that contain hormone disruptors like oxybenzone or avobenzone, which can interfere with your baby's nervous system development. Instead, opt for physical or natural sun protection.

Lastly, tetracycline and its derivatives (doxycycline and minocycline), which are common antibiotics for skin conditions, should be avoided as they have been shown to have negative effects on both pregnant mothers and their babies.

Remember, it's always best to consult with your doctor about any products you're considering using during pregnancy to ensure the safety of both you and your baby.

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The jury is still out on whether over-the-counter self-tanners are 100% safe during pregnancy

Pregnancy is a time when you might find yourself questioning the safety of many things you previously enjoyed, from your favourite coffee order to your skincare routine. If you're someone who likes to self-tan, you might be wondering if it's still safe to do so while you're pregnant.

The short answer is: probably. According to Dr. Sharlay K. Butler, M.D., M.P.H., OB-GYN at Brigham & Women’s Hospital, using a self-tanner is safe throughout pregnancy, regardless of the trimester. However, Dr. Jacqueline Moline, M.D., an internal medicine specialist and vice president of occupational medicine and epidemiology at Northwell Health, suggests that it might be best to wait until after the first trimester, as this is when "everything's most sensitive".

The active ingredient in self-tanners is dihydroxyacetone, or DHA, which reacts with amino acids on the outermost layer of the skin to create a browning effect. There isn't extensive scientific data on the safety of DHA during pregnancy, but experts aren't overly concerned about its use. Dr. Moline explains that DHA is "not well-absorbed" and "is not absorbed" into the body, and even if it were, only about "0.001% is absorbed into the bloodstream".

However, it's important to note that there haven't been any long-term studies on how self-tanners might affect a developing fetus, and without conclusive proof, some practitioners may encourage pregnant people to avoid self-tanners altogether. Additionally, pregnancy hormones can cause skin to react differently, and with a growing belly, achieving an even application can be tricky.

If you're considering using a self-tanner during pregnancy, it's recommended to choose lotion, gel, or mousse formulas and avoid spray tans, as these could lead to inhaling the product. Opt for products with as few chemicals as possible, and avoid ingredients that aren't pregnancy-safe, such as retinols, vitamin A, parabens, phthalates, and formaldehyde. The American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists (ACOG) encourages pregnant people to choose products that are fragrance-free and formulated without phthalates, parabens, oxybenzone, and triclosan.

Remember, even if you don't usually have sensitive skin, pregnancy can change that, so always do a patch test before using a new product.

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Doctors recommend staying out of direct sun during pregnancy

Sun exposure is a significant source of vitamin D, which is essential for bone development in the foetus and strengthening the immune system. However, doctors recommend that pregnant women avoid direct sun exposure and tanning beds, especially during the first trimester. Here's why staying out of direct sun is crucial for expectant mothers:

Risk of Overheating

Pregnant women are more susceptible to overheating due to increased hormonal levels, which can lead to dehydration and, in severe cases, symptoms of preterm labour. Overheating can also raise the core body temperature of both mother and foetus, potentially causing fetal brain damage if the temperature remains elevated for an extended period.

Skin Sensitivity

Pregnancy hormones can make a woman's skin more sensitive to sunlight, increasing the risk of sunburn, hives, heat rash, and chloasma (dark splotchy skin). This condition, often called the "mask of pregnancy," may or may not disappear after giving birth.

Folic Acid Breakdown

Prolonged sun exposure can lead to a decrease in folic acid levels, which are crucial for the baby's growth and development. Insufficient folic acid increases the risk of spina bifida and other birth defects. Therefore, it is recommended to limit sun exposure, especially during the first trimester when folic acid is most critical.

Skin Cancer Risk

Exposure to the sun, especially if it results in sunburn, increases the risk of skin cancer (melanoma). This risk is heightened during pregnancy due to increased skin sensitivity.

Respiratory Risks

Spray-on tans and tanning booths may carry respiratory risks for both mother and baby. When DHA, the active ingredient in self-tanners, is inhaled, it can be absorbed into the body through the respiratory system. The potential impact on the foetus is unknown, so it is best to avoid this risk altogether.

Alternative Options

If you're looking for a summer glow, tanning lotions or creams are safer options during pregnancy. However, always consult a doctor or midwife before using any new products, and be sure to follow general sun protection advice, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and avoiding the sun during peak hours.

Frequently asked questions

The safety of self-tanning products during pregnancy is still uncertain. While most experts believe that the active ingredient in self-tanners, dihydroxyacetone (DHA), does not penetrate the skin, there is a lack of conclusive proof. It is always better to be safe than sorry, so consult your healthcare provider before using any self-tanning products during pregnancy.

There are two main concerns. Firstly, the lack of long-term studies on the effects of self-tanning products on a developing fetus. Secondly, the possibility of an allergic reaction due to increased skin sensitivity during pregnancy.

Yes, it is recommended to follow these precautions:

- Consult your healthcare provider to ensure it is safe for your individual circumstances.

- Opt for lotion, gel, or mousse formulas instead of spray tans to avoid inhaling the product.

- Choose products with fewer chemicals and avoid those containing retinols, vitamin A, parabens, phthalates, and formaldehyde.

- Always do a patch test 24 hours before using any new product to check for skin sensitivity or allergic reactions.

No, Tanologist does not currently offer any self-tanning products specifically designed or marketed for pregnancy. However, their existing products may be suitable for use during pregnancy if approved by your healthcare provider and used with the recommended precautions.

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