Younique Self-Tanner: Safe For Pregnant Women?

Pregnancy is a time of many changes, and it's natural to wonder if self-tanning products are safe to use. The general consensus is that self-tanners are safe to use during pregnancy, but it's important to be cautious. The main active ingredient in most self-tanners is dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which is approved by the FDA for external use only. DHA reacts with the outermost layer of the skin to produce a temporary tan, and it is not thought to be absorbed into the body significantly. However, there are no studies on whether DHA can impact a developing baby, and it is not approved for use near the eyes, nose, or lips. It's always best to consult a doctor before using any self-tanning products during pregnancy and to do a patch test, as pregnancy can cause sensitive skin. Some brands market their products as pregnancy-safe due to the absence of potentially harmful ingredients like retinoids, hydroquinone, salicylic acid, chemical sunscreens, parabens, and phthalates. When choosing a self-tanner during pregnancy, it's recommended to opt for lotion, gel, or mousse formulas and avoid sprays or aerosols to prevent inhalation. Additionally, it's important to avoid products with extra skincare ingredients that aren't pregnancy-safe, such as retinols or vitamin A.

Is DHA safe during pregnancy?

DHA, or docosahexaenoic acid, is an omega-3 fatty acid that plays a critical role in the human body. It is deemed safe and helpful to take DHA supplements before, during, and after pregnancy. Doctors often recommend DHA supplements during pregnancy because DHA is involved in fetal growth and development.

DHA is important for the development of the baby's brain, eyes, and nervous system. It is also believed to help:

• Prevent pre-term labour
• Increase birth weight
• Support postpartum mood in new mothers

The human body cannot produce DHA in significant amounts, so it is recommended to include dietary sources or supplements of DHA during pregnancy.

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), pregnant women should eat 8 to 12 ounces of seafood per week, choosing varieties low in mercury such as salmon, herring, sardines, and trout.

However, it is important to note that DHA supplements should not be the only source of DHA during pregnancy. A balanced diet that includes fatty fish and DHA-fortified foods can also help meet the recommended intake.

What self-tanning products are safe to use?

Pregnancy is a time when your skin is more vulnerable, and you may be wondering if self-tanning products are safe to use. The good news is that self-tanner is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy, but it's always best to consult with your doctor first. Here are some things to keep in mind and some specific products that are recommended for pregnant women:

Ingredients to Avoid

When choosing a self-tanning product, it's important to be mindful of the ingredients. Some key ingredients to avoid during pregnancy include:

• Parabens: These can disrupt hormone function and have been linked to breast cancer and reproductive issues.
• Phthalates: These chemicals are known endocrine disruptors and have been linked to developmental issues in children.
• Retinol (Vitamin A): Excessive amounts of Vitamin A can be harmful to the fetus.
• Formaldehyde and Formaldehyde Releasers: These chemicals are known carcinogens and can be absorbed through the skin.
• Oxybenzone and Octinoxate: These chemicals can disrupt hormones and are commonly found in sunscreens.
• Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) in Aerosol Form: While DHA is generally considered safe for topical use, it should be avoided in aerosol form as it could be inhaled.

Recommended Products

When selecting a self-tanning product, opt for lotions, gels, or mousse formulas instead of sprays to avoid inhaling the product. Choose products with as few chemicals as possible and avoid any extra skincare ingredients that aren't pregnancy-safe, like retinols or vitamin A. Some specific products that are recommended by experts and other pregnant women include:

• Loving Tan 2-Hour Express Self Tanning Mousse Dark
• B.tan Glow Your Own Way Tan Gel
• Small Batch Reserve Light/Medium Formula
• Bondi Sands Technocolor 1-Hour Express Self Tanning Foam
• Dolce Glow Lusso Self-Tanning Mousse in Medium to Dark
• St. Tropez Purity Self-Tanning Drops and Self-Tan Water
• Isle of Paradise Self-Tanning Butter
• Tan-Luxe Self-Tan Water
• Body Blur

Additional Considerations

Even if you're using a self-tanner, don't forget that it doesn't protect your skin from the sun. Be sure to apply sunscreen or wear protective clothing when spending time outdoors. Additionally, it's always a good idea to do a patch test before using any new product, especially during pregnancy, as your skin may be more sensitive.

What ingredients should be avoided in self-tanners during pregnancy?

When it comes to self-tanners and pregnancy, the general consensus is that they are safe to use, but it is still important to be cautious. While the main active ingredient in most self-tanners, dihydroxyacetone (DHA), is considered safe, self-tanning products may contain other ingredients that could be harmful during pregnancy. Here is a list of ingredients that should be avoided in self-tanners during pregnancy:

• Parabens: Often used as preservatives in cosmetics, parabens can interfere with hormone function, which is crucial to avoid during pregnancy. Some parabens have been linked to breast cancer and reproductive issues due to their ability to mimic estrogen.
• Phthalates: These chemicals are used to increase the flexibility and strength of plastics and are also found in some personal care products. They are known endocrine disruptors and have been associated with developmental issues in children.
• Retinol (Vitamin A): While Vitamin A is essential for fetal development, excessive amounts can be harmful. Retinol in skincare products, especially in high doses, can lead to elevated levels of Vitamin A, potentially causing developmental issues in the fetus.
• Formaldehyde and Formaldehyde Releasers: Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen, and while it is typically found in low levels in cosmetics, it is best to avoid it during pregnancy.
• Oxybenzone and Octinoxate: These chemicals are commonly found in sunscreens and can disrupt hormones. Although they are less common in self-tanners, it is advisable to avoid them in all skincare products during pregnancy.
• Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) in Aerosol Form: While DHA is generally safe for topical use, it should be avoided in aerosol form (such as spray tans) as it can be inhaled, which may be harmful.

By steering clear of these ingredients, you can ensure a safer tanning experience during pregnancy. It is always recommended to consult with your healthcare provider for personalised advice regarding product use during pregnancy.

Is it safe to get a spray tan during pregnancy?

Pregnancy is a time when you have to be cautious about the products you use on your body. If you're someone who likes to get a spray tan, you might be wondering if it's still safe to do so while pregnant. Here's what you need to know:

The Active Ingredient in Spray Tans

The active ingredient in most spray tans and self-tanners is dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a substance that reacts with the outermost layer of the skin to produce a brown pigment called melanoidin, giving you a tanned appearance. DHA is generally considered safe for external use by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). However, it is not approved for use near the eyes, nose, or lips, and there are currently no studies on its potential impact on a developing baby.

Recommendations from Experts

Dermatologists and medical professionals generally advise against spray tans during pregnancy. While DHA is not thought to be absorbed into the body through the skin, the number of chemicals absorbed would increase if the product gets into sensitive areas like the eyes, mouth, and nose, or if it is inhaled. The limited data available suggests that only about 0.001% of DHA is absorbed into the bloodstream when applied to the skin, but this number could be higher if inhaled or applied near sensitive areas.

Alternative Options

If you're looking for a safe way to achieve a tanned appearance during pregnancy, self-tanners in the form of lotions, gels, or mousses are generally considered safer than spray tans. When choosing a self-tanner, opt for products with as few chemicals as possible and avoid ingredients like retinols, vitamin A, parabens, phthalates, and formaldehyde. Some brands market their self-tanners as "pregnancy-safe" due to the absence of these potentially harmful ingredients. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and consider doing a patch test before using any new product during pregnancy.

What precautions should be taken when using self-tanners during pregnancy?

Precautions to Take When Using Self-Tanners During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a time when you need to be cautious about the products you use on your skin. While self-tanners can be a great way to achieve a sun-kissed glow without the risks of UV rays, it's important to take certain precautions to ensure the safety of both mother and baby. Here are some guidelines to follow when using self-tanners during pregnancy:

• Consult Your Doctor: Before using any self-tanner during pregnancy, it's always best to check with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice and ensure that the product you choose is safe for you and your baby.
• Choose the Right Ingredients: Avoid self-tanners with potentially harmful ingredients such as parabens, phthalates, retinol (Vitamin A), formaldehyde, oxybenzone, octinoxate, and chemical sunscreens. Opt for organic or natural ingredient-based products that are considered safe for pregnancy.
• Avoid Spray Tans: While self-tanners are generally safe, spray tans are not recommended during pregnancy. Spray tans can result in inhaling the product, which may be harmful. Stick to lotions, gels, mousses, or foams that can be safely applied by hand or with a glove or brush.
• Perform a Patch Test: Even if you've used self-tanners before, it's a good idea to do a patch test first. Pregnancy can make your skin more sensitive, so apply a small amount of the product on your arm and wait 24 hours to ensure it doesn't irritate your skin.
• Avoid Sensitive Areas: Avoid using self-tanners near the eyes, nose, or lips. These areas are more susceptible to absorption, and it's best to avoid any potential risks.
• Protect Yourself from the Sun: Remember that a fake tan does not provide UV protection. Be sure to wear sunscreen or protective clothing when spending time in the sun to prevent sunburn and other complications.
• Read the Labels: When shopping for a self-tanner, read the ingredient list carefully. Choose products with the shortest and simplest ingredient lists to minimize the number of chemicals you're exposed to.
• Consider Organic Options: Organic self-tanners are formulated with ingredients grown and processed under strict agricultural guidelines. They tend to have safer ingredients, nourishing components, and fewer harmful additives, making them a good choice during pregnancy.
• Maintain Good Skin Care: Exfoliate and moisturize your skin regularly to ensure an even and long-lasting tan. This will also help you avoid patchiness as the tan fades.
• Check Expiration Dates: Self-tanners have a shelf life, so always check the expiration date before using the product. Using expired self-tanner may not be safe for your skin.

Frequently asked questions