Summer is just around the corner, but the pandemic is too! You want to get that summer beach tan, but you are so worried that you might catch the virus. Especially that you are currently pregnant, you are taking all the precautionary measures just to keep you and your baby safe.
If you want to get that summer tan without the harmful UV light and virus outside the house, there is nothing to worry about! I got the Best Self Tanner Safe for Pregnancy right here on this article! These tanners are mom-approved and all organic, to keep you and your little one safe.
Can you use DHA in self-tanner while pregnant?
The truth is there isn’t enough research to determine whether or not it’s safe to use DHA in self-tanner while pregnant. The FDA doesn’t regulate self-tanning products, so we simply don’t know what kind of side effects there could be for pregnant women.
While it may seem harmless, there is the potential for DHA to be absorbed through the skin and into the bloodstream. DHA is a synthetic form of sugar, and it’s known to cause irritation on certain skin types. The same could be true for pregnant women, and the effects could be even more pronounced. That’s why it’s best to err on the side of caution and avoid this ingredient while pregnant.
What can you do instead, you ask? Well, there are plenty of other self-tanning products that don’t contain DHA. Natural tanning options such as sunless tanning lotions and sprays can give you a beautiful golden glow in a safe and natural way.
Another option is to engage in natural sun tanning. With the proper protection from UV rays and some smart parenting strategies, it’s perfectly safe to enjoy some sunshine during pregnancy. Just be sure to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen product with a minimum SPF of 30, wear protective clothing, and limit your time in the sun.
Let’s go!
How we tested the Pregnancy-safe Self Tanners
With the help of our team of experts at Best Mom Choices, we tested 10+ products to find the best self tanner safe for pregnancy. Each product is tested on 4 factors: Application, breathability and coverage, toxicity, odor and longevity of tan.
The products were rated on the scale of 1 to 5 to find the best ones.
- Application
Most self tanners are either sprayed on or rubbed on the skin. As self tanners are not too safe to breath in, it’s recommended for the to-be moms to go for self tanners that can be rubbed on the skin.
2. Breathability and Coverage
Everyone loves a breathable tan that covers the entire skin without leaving patches or streaks. Hence, we also looked for the tanners that are non-greasy, airy and leave no streaks behind.
3. Toxicity
This is the most important aspect while choosing a self tanner for a pregnant woman. There are so many brands that use dangerous and harmful chemicals that might not be good for pregnancy.
Hence, before choosing a self tanner, look for the ingredients behind the product. We chose tanners with 100% organic ingredients and no harmful chemicals like parabens and sulphates that would harm the skin.
4. Odor
When a woman is pregnant, her skin becomes extremely sensitive. Hence, using scented products might cause irritation or harmful reactions on the skin. Hence we’ve chosen tanns with mild or no scents at all.
5. Longevity of tan
My team and I tested how long the tans last for each product. It’s better to go with self tanners that last longer because applying the tanner daily can be a hassle. We also looked into the special instructions provided before choosing the product.
What self tanners are safe during pregnancy?
| Best Self- Tanners Safe for Pregnant Women | Best For | Key Ingredients |
| Golden Star Beauty Organic Spray Tan | All skin types | Organic Oils like jojoba oil, avocado oil and organic extracts like calendula and meadowsweet |
| Beauty by Earth Organic Self-Tanner | Sensitive skin | Organic aloe vera, shea butter, extracts |
| Botanic Tree Self Tanner | Dry and dehydrated skin | Avocado, shea butter and coconut extracts |
| Tanceuticals Self Tanner Lotion | Improving skin quality | Acai Berry, Mango Butter and Vitamin E |
| Coco & Eve Sunny Honey Bali Organic Self Tanner Mousse | Improving aging signs | fig, banana, papaya and cocoa |
| Bahama Tan Self-Tanning Lotion | All skin types | Shea Butter, Coconut Oil, Argan Oil and Monoi de Tahiti Oil |
| Miami Gorgeous Self-Tanning Mousse | Golden glow and soft skin | Argan Oil, Vitamin A, C, D, Coconut Oil and Olive Oil, |
| Just Nutritive Sunless Tanning Lotion | Lasting glow and skin rejuvenation | Sweet Almond, Coconut, Grapeseed and Rice Bran |
| Versa Spa Bronzing Mist | Flawless tan | Green and brown marine algae |
| St. Tropez Self Tan Express Advanced Bronzing Mousse | Moisture and hydration | Aloe vera and glycerin |
| Jergens Natural Glow Instant Sun Body Mousse, Self Tanner for Light Bronze Tan | Natural looking tan | Water, citric acid, glycerin |
| Sun Laboratories Self Tanning Lotion | All Skin types | Glycerin and coconut |
Check out Sunscreens suitable for pregnancy
St. Tropez Self Tan Express Advanced Bronzing Mousse
Best Self Tanner Safe for Pregnancy suited for all skin types
St. Tropez is known to be one of the best self tanners and safe for pregnancy. It’s that self tanner that the Kardasians also use, yeah that’s right!
This tan is 3 in 1 tan which means you can get all the three shades in just one tanner. All you need to do is keep for an hour for light tan, 2 hours for medium and 3 for dark shade of tan.
My sister used this tan when she was pregnant with her first son and found this to be extremely soothing to the skin because of aloe vera.
This self tanner consists of glycerin and aloe vera extracts that makes it super hydrating. It’s 100% vegan which is great for pregnancy as animal products might cause irritation on skin.
Glycerin also provides glow to the skin and locks in moisture. It’s not composed of any harmful chemicals that might be bad for the baby. Also, it uses 100% natural DHA which isn’t harmful for pregnancy, at all.
It’s non greasy, mood boosting and dries up in no time which is the best part about it. St Tropez bronzing mousse is lightweight and easy to apply. However, it’s only drawback is it fades quickie.
Get this one if you want an olive-tone or bronze colour skin.
Other features:
- 6.7 ounce
- 3 in 1 product
- 100% natural tanning actives
Pros:
- 100% natural DHA
- No harmful chemicals
- 3 in 1 product
Cons:
- Fades fast
- No value for money
Jergens Natural Glow Instant Sun Body Mousse, Self Tanner for Light Bronze Tan
Best Self Tanner Safe for Pregnancy suited for all skin types
Jergens is one of the most affordable self tanners on this list that’s a great product for pregnant women. I’m baffled that something so cheap can give out such a great result.
Get your sun-soothing tan in just 60 seconds. It’s lightweight formula isn’t too heavy on the skin and only gets to the top layer of the skin.
According to my team, it’s very soothing on the skin and meant for all skin types except extra sensitive skin.
It’s packed with natural ingredients like water, citric acid and glycerin that hydrates the skin and locks in moisture. Citric acid improves aging signs and tightens the skin. However, it’s not recommended for people with extra sensitive skin as it might cause irritation and burns.
This pregnancy safe self tanner is easy to apply and blends with the skin tone in no time without any streaks.
The only thing to keep in mind is, it has a fruity smell. Fragrance might cause irritation so please test it before picking this product.
Other Features:
- 6 ounces
- Pump bottle
- Easy application
Pros:
- Quick drying
- Affordable
- Lightweight
- Blends with skin tone
Cons:
- Too thin consistency
- Not free of fragrance
Sun Laboratories Self Tanning Lotion
Best Self Tanner Safe for Pregnancy suited for all skin skin
Sun laboratories self tanning lotion is a doctor-approved tanning lotion with no negative side effects. When on the beaches this summer, don’t forget to apply this self tanner for a naturally glowing and beautiful tan.
It’s formulated with safe and natural ingredients like water, glycerin, coconut and 100% natural DHA. These ingredients help in keeping the skin supple and hydrated and form a barrier against the harming agents.
Coconut increases natural collagen production and reduces inflammation. This self tanning lotion has a fast absorbing formula, lightweight and airy for the skin. It’s suitable for all skin types, even the sensitive ones.
This tanning lotion is meant for dark tans and is an organic sugar based formula. I’d recommend this for people with light skin tone.
Other features:
- 8 ounces
- Bottle dispenser
- Easy to apply
Pros:
- Dries quickly
- Natural ingredients
- Doctor’s approved
Cons:
- Meant for dark tans
- Might leave streaks
Golden Star Beauty Organic Spray Tan
Best Self Tanner Safe for Pregnancy suited for all skin types
Achieving a stunning and deep tan is made more accessible, thanks to the Golden Star Beauty Organic Spray Tan. You never have to worry about hurting your skin and getting all sweaty outside! This spray tan is made from organic oils and all-vegan ingredients.
This spray tan provides you with a luxurious golden bronze tan without any fake tan smell! We know how a pregnant woman’s sense of smell can be so sensitive, and this would never hurt your nose. This spray tan is perfect for all skin types, so you just spray it directly on your skin and wait for 10 minutes. Then, you now have a perfectly sunless-tanned skin!
Other Features:
- 100% streak-free
- Certified Organic Ingredients
- Gluten-free
- Cruelty-free
Pros:
- No fragrance
- Streak-free
- Non-greasy
- Non-comedogenic
Cons:
Not for extra sensitive skin
Click here for more information about this self-tanner.
Beauty by Earth Organic Self-Tanner
Best Self Tanner Safe for Pregnancy for sensitive skin
The good thing in today’s world is that there are lots of cosmetic brands that manufacture pregnant-safe products! That includes the Beauty by Earth Organic Self-tanner. You can now say hello to your perfectly sun-kissed skin and baby bump!
This vegan sunless tanning lotion gives you that bronze glow without damaging your skin cells. You do not have to worry about harmful chemicals that you might inhale too, so this is the perfect tanner for pregnant moms!
Lying under the scorching heat of the sun is no longer in today, so say goodbye to sunburns! Your skin will thank you by not damaging it just to achieve a tan that you would love.
Other Features:
- Net Weight: 222 mL
- All-natural ingredients
- No parabens
- No phthalates
Pros:
- 100% vegan ingredients
- Non toxic
- Streak free
- Hides aging signs
Click here for more information about this self-tanner.
Botanic Tree Self Tanner
Best Self Tanner Safe for Pregnancy suited for dry skin
Do you know that tanning under the sun can cause premature aging to your skin? Save your skin from aging faster and use the Botanic Tree Self Tanner! This tanner also uses 100% organic extracts without giving you an oily feel.
We know how other self-tanners can give that greasy feeling, but you can skip that feeling once you use this! It does not stain, and it never causes any acne or irritation to your face. They said that they are the best self-tanner ever, so why not prove it to yourself? 😊
If you have pale white skin, add some charming brownish touch on it without any fake tan look! You can benefit from Shea Butter and ten powerful fruits from this self-tanner, and your skin will surely love it!
Other Features:
- Net Weight: 170 mL
- Vegan
- 100% streak-free
- No parabens
- Cruelty-free
Pros:
- Plant based formula
- Dries quickly
- Contains 10 fruit oils
- Nourished and rejuvenated skin
Cons:
- Thick consistency
- Contains rosemary (controversial for pregnancy)
Click here for more information about this self-tanner.
Tanceuticals Self Tanner Lotion
Best Self Tanner Safe for Pregnancy to improve skin quality
Who says pregnant women cannot have brown skin?! The Tanceuticals Self-Tanner Lotion is here for you, pregnant mom! You can achieve that golden bronze skin without any worries of carcinogens from the sun with this self-tanner lotion!
It is effortless to apply because the lotion easily blends and dries quickly too. This tanner lotion can give you a smooth tan for up to 7 days, which are longer than usual tanners! It does not stain on clothes or linens, so you can save the hassle of washing your beddings and clothes from the tan stain.
This lotion is packed with healthy ingredients like Acai Berry, Mango Butter, and Vitamin E that are good for your skin. These ingredients can improve the quality and appearance of your skin too!
Other Features:
- Net Weight: 125 mL
- No harmful chemicals
- Paraben-free
- Mineral-oil free
Pros:
- No toxic chemicals
- Long lasting
- Cruelty free
Cons:
- Contains fragrance
Click here for more information about this self-tanner.
Coco & Eve Sunny Honey Bali Organic Self Tanner Mousse
Best Self Tanner Safe for Pregnancy with anti-ageing
If you are desperate to have that summer glow without having to sweat your pregnant self outside, here I come to the rescue! I give you the Coco & Eve Sunny Honey Bali Organic Self-Tanner Mousse! You would feel like you have been to Bali once you apply this on your skin!
You would have a natural-looking sun-kissed skin without sun damage or chemicals. This mousse is the world’s first 100% Natural DHA Self-tan body treatment with full skincare benefits. It can transform your skin as if you have been on vacation to Bali, Indonesia!
It promises not to give any nasty streaks or blotches and no orangey tones like other self-tanners! This lightweight mousse also has anti-cellulite and anti-aging properties. These are just a few of the fantastic features of the self-tanner, so I leave the rest for you to try! 😊
Other Features:
- Lightweight
- With antioxidants
- Long-lasting tan
- Vegan
Pros:
- Long lasting
- Vegan
- Lightweight
Cons:
- No value for money
Bahama Tan Self-Tanning Lotion
Best Self Tanner Safe for Pregnancy suited for all skin types
Hey there, beach babe! Forget about harming your skin under the sun and apply the Bahama Tan Self-Tanning lotion instead! Your baby bump would no longer have to be damaged from the sun’s UV rays just to achieve that glowing bronze tan!
This self-tanning lotion has organic and all-natural ingredients that are perfectly blended to create a rich tan. No streaking and orange-looking skin would have to worry you once you use this lotion.
The manufacturer also wants you to be happy and satisfied, and they are confident that you would love their product! But if not, you can have your money back with no questions asked! How amazing is that?
Other Features:
- Net Weight: 7.5 fl. oz
- Eco-Cert approved DHA
- Organic ingredients
- Non-toxic
- No parabens
- No harmful chemicals
Pros:
- Eco cert approved DHA
- Toxic-free
- 100% natural ingredients
Cons:
- Not long lasting
- Contains fragrance
Click here for more information about this self-tanner.
Miami Gorgeous Self-Tanning Mousse
Best Self Tanner Safe for Pregnancy for smooth finish
Have a gorgeous-looking tan without having to go to the beach, pregnant mom! Just use the Miami Gorgeous Self-Tanning Mousse, and you are ready to flaunt that sun-kissed without any sunburned skin!
This mousse is made from premium quality organic ingredients like argan oil and coconut oil. You can have an instant natural bronze color to make your skin ultra-vibrant and sexy with your baby bump!
The Miami Gorgeous Self-Tanning Mousse is a breakthrough self-tanner because of its organic DHA composition. Your skin quickly absorbs it, and you can use this entire bottle for 10-12 full body self-tanning sessions!
This really is a bang for the buck tanning mousse this summer season!
Other Features:
- Net Weight: 124 mL
- For all skin types
- Paraben-free
- Gluten-free
Pros:
- Gluten free
- Safe for all skin types
- 100% natural ingredients
Cons:
- Contains fragrance
- Might leave streaks
Click here for more information about this self-tanner.
Just Nutritive Sunless Tanning Lotion
Best Self Tanner Safe for Pregnancy for skin rejuvenation
Ignite your skin without leaving your home with the Just Nutritive Sunless Tanning Lotion. You would surely get thousands of compliments with your cute baby bump and your gorgeous tan! If you want a dark sun-kissed complexion, this should be your go-to lotion.
Natural oils from Sweet Almond, Coconut, Grapeseed, Rice Bran, and much more would make your skin look tanned and healthy too. This lotion can also hide stretch marks, especially with your growing tummy.
You can have brown skin with zero tans, thanks to the Just Nutritive Sunless Tanning Lotion! This lotion is made for all skin types. Plus, it has no artificial color or fragrances that can be harmful to you and your baby,
Other Features:
- Net Weight: 226 mL
- Nutritive ingredients
- No fillers
- 100% vegan
Pros:
- Vegan friendly
- Cruelty free
- 100% natural ingredients
Cons:
- Might leave streaks
Click here for more information about this self-tanner.
Versa Spa Bronzing Mist
Best Self Tanner Safe for Pregnancy for perfect tan
You don’t have to go to a tanning spa, just to get that dewy stunning bronze skin! You can have it all by using the Versa Spa Bronzing Mist. This mist has an ultra-micro mist that sprays evenly on your skin. It dries out quickly, too, for you to get that gorgeous natural-looking tan.
It has a Trade-mark blend of Eco-Cert DHA, and Erythrulose offer a highly-pigmented, pro-quality color tab. In addition to that, it has some brown marine algae that support your skin structure, detoxification, and hydration.
No pungent odors that can make your pregnant-self dizzy would worry you because this mist provides an odorless tanning session. It also doesn’t clog pores, so your face would love this so much too!
Other Features:
- Net Weight: 170 mL
- Non-comedogenic
- Vegan
Pros:
- Eco Cert DHA
- No fragrance
- Non-comedogenic
Cons:
No value for money
Click here for more information about this tanner.
Which is the best Pregnancy-safe self-tanner?
My team and I rated 10+ products on the basis of application, breathability and coverage, toxicity, odor and longevity of tan. We found Beauty By Earth Self Tanner to be the best self tanner safe for pregnancy.
Beauty By Earth Self Tanner is a lightweight, airy and non-greasy self tanner. It’s formulated with 100% organic ingredients like water, shea butter, organic aloe vera juice and various fruit extracts that helps lock in moisture, hydrates and supplies the skin. This self tanner is also vegan and cruelty free. It’s available on Amazon for sale.
Tips To Choose The Right Tanning Lotion when Pregnant
- Choose products that contain natural ingredients like water, glycerin, fruit extracts etc. These ingredients will nourish your skin and won’t harm the baby.
- Avoid products with harmful chemicals such as parabens, sulphates that might dry out your skin and cause breakouts. Go for 100% organic ingredients that are soothing on skin.
- Go for a self tanner that has natural DHA. Natural DHA gets absorbed in the upper layer of the skin and protects the lower skin layer.
- Avoid fragranced products during pregnancy as the skin becomes ultra-sensitive and fragrance might cause irritation.
- Go for a non-comedogenic tanner. It won’t cause you any breakouts and also won’t clog your pores.
How to apply a self tanning product for pregnancy
- The first step is to exfoliate. Exfoliate your skin wherever you want to apply the tanner and especially on the areas with thick skin like ankles, elbows and knees. Wait for your body to dry out.
- Grab a mitt and pour some of the lotion on it as you wouldn’t want your palms to turn orange. Apply the self tanner in circular motions. Avoid the stomach region as the fetus is in that area.
- Damp out the extra lotion from the skin and let it dry naturally.
- Shower after the lotion is completely dry.
Can you tan during pregnancy?
Yes, you can tan during pregnancy as long as you’re using safe and 100% organic ingredients that protects skin from UVA and UVB rays. Don’t go for chemical induced products like parabens, sulphate etc. However, there’s no study on how safe the self tanner is during pregnancy.
Pregnancy is a delicate time of life and hence it’s advisable to consult your gynaecologist before using any product. Go ahead with the self tanner if your doctor approves it.
Getting exposed to the sun during pregnancy helps in providing vitamin D which is good for the baby’s bone development, boosts immunity as well as fights depression. Too much sun exposure can also be harmful.
However, it’s not advisable to lay on tanning beds while being pregnant because excess and harmful UV rays may cause folic acid deficiency. This will in turn harm the growth of the baby.
During pregnancy, the skin of a woman is extra sensitive which is why it’s easy to get sunburnt easily and develop spots called chloasma. Chloasma is quite common in pregnancy.
Excess exposure to heat might also cause dehydration. Therefore it’s advisable to sunbathe but not excessively.
Best Pregnancy-Safe Self Tanners: FAQs
Is self tanner safe while pregnancy and breastfeeding?
It’s advisable to consult your gynaecologist before using a self tanner. According to the Cosmetic Toiletry and Perfumery Association (CTPA), self tanners are safe to use in any form.
Avoid using the tanner on the breast region where the baby is likely to be exposed to. Use a tanner with 100% natural DHA as it only seeps to the top layer of the skin and acts as a barrier for inner layers.
However there’s no 100% evidence that natural DHA is completely safe for a baby.
Which is the best fake tan when pregnant?
The best fake tan when pregnant is the one with 100% organic ingredients and no harmful chemicals. It should be composed of natural DHA. Some best fake tans are St Tropez Tan Express, Beauty By Earth Self Tanner, and Tanceuticals Self Tan Lotion.
Is Tanceuticals self tanner safe for pregnancy?
Yes, Tanceuticals is a safe self tanner. You can apply the self tanner at night and wake up with a gorgeous tan that doesn’t have streaks or washes off.
Is Coco and Eve self tanner safe for pregnancy?
Yes, Coco and Eve self tanner is safe for pregnancy. The ingredients used in the product are natural and no chemicals are involved that would harm the baby or the pregnant mother.
Also Read:
- Top Pregnancy Safe Nail Polish Remover
- Top Pregnancy Safe Eye Creams
- Best Cream to Prevent Stretch Marks During Pregnancy
- Best Beauty Face Masks During Pregnancy
- Do I Need Nipple Cream for Breastfeeding?
