Summer hits hard. You want that sun-kissed look but the sun is essentially forbidden territory if you’re carrying a baby. Specifically in the first trimestex.
Too much UV exposure zaps folic acid levels. That’s a nutrient you can’t afford to lose, says Northwestern Medicine.
So here’s the pivot. You don’t have to look like a ghost for nine months. A solid pregnancy-safe SPF is non-negotiable. But for the glow itself? Self-tanners are the way to go. Just not just any self-tanner.
“I do not recommend using any Aerosol versions of self-tanners.”
Dr. Rachel Nazarian, board-certified dermatologist.
Aerosols are out. The droplets linger in the air. They irritate. They can be toxic to lung tissue. Stick to lotions, creams, drops. The stuff that stays on your skin.
What Actually Gets In?
Read the label. Look for DHA. Dihydroxyacetone. It dyes the surface of the skin. It sits there.
Does it enter your bloodstream? Minimal absorption, according to Nazarian. It ranges from 1 to 15% concentration but stays on top.
Dr. Kelly Culwell (aka ‘Dr Lady Doctor’), a board-certified OB/GYN, agrees. DHA has been in cosmetics since the 16s. No reported problems. If applied topically, it barely crosses into the system. And even if it does, it likely doesn’t pass the placental barrier.
But?
No studies have proven it safe for pregnancy. Technically.
It’s a gray zone. If the word “maybe” keeps you awake at night, skip DHA. Totally up to you.
The Ingredients You Actually Need to Avoid
DHA is probably fine. These chemicals are not.
- Parabens
- Phthalates
- Formaldehyde
- Oxybenzone
Formaldehyde and oxybenzone lack enough data to prove they’re safe, or they actively disrupt hormones. Hormone disruptors are a no-go during pregnancy. Birth defects, preterm birth—you cut your risks by cutting these out.
Go organic if you can. Plant-based usually means fewer additive chemicals. Shorter ingredient list is better. Look for “paraben-free.” Or just “pregnancy-safe.”
Exfoliate before applying anything. Moisturize after. Even coverage is the only way to hide the fact that you’re not actually at the beach.
Best Picks
Here are the ones that clear the bar. Prices change, obviously, but these are the current staples.
Best Overall
* Tanologist Daily Glow Hydrating lotion ($15)
Runner Up
* Isle of Paradise Self-tanning drops ($22, was $30)
The Foam
* b.tan Love at First tan ($12)
The Mousse
* Jergens natural glow Instant sun Sunless tanning Moisturizer Bronzer ($12, was $13)
For A Darker Look
* beauty by earth Self Tanner Tanning lotion ($36)
Serum Option
* whind marrakech sun Instant Glow Tanning water ($35)
For Face Only
* Coola Organic sunless Tan Anti-Aging daily moisturizer ($48)
The Quick Fix
* tan towel self Tan towellette ($30, was $35)
Best Body Lotion
* alba botanica sunless Tanner ($17)
Most Popular
* Lux unfiltered N32 Hydrating gradual Self Tanning lotion ($38)
Safe bronzing exists. It just takes a little reading. Or a little trust. Either works, really. 🤷♀️
