Can You Use a Tanning Bed While Pregnant?

Pregnancy is a time of many changes—your body, your emotions, and even your skin can all shift in ways you might not expect. Many pregnant women find themselves wanting to embrace a little self-care, searching for ways to feel confident and radiant during this exciting time. For some, the idea of a sun-kissed glow seems like a simple pick-me-up, especially when dealing with pregnancy-related skin changes like acne, dark patches, or uneven tone. It’s no wonder many pregnant women find themselves asking, “Is it safe to use a tanning bed while pregnant?”
 
The desire for a healthy glow is perfectly natural, but it’s essential to prioritize your safety and that of your growing baby. There are both safe and unsafe ways to achieve a bronzed look during pregnancy, and understanding the risks associated with tanning beds is a critical first step. In this guide, we’ll explore the potential dangers of tanning beds for expectant moms and share pregnancy-safe alternatives for achieving that coveted glow. Let’s dive into how you can look and feel your best without compromising your well-being.
 

Using a Tanning Bed While Pregnant

While it’s unlikely that tanning will harm your growing baby, that doesn’t mean it’s completely risk-free. The dangers of sun exposure and tanning beds apply to everyone, regardless of pregnancy. Self-tanners and bronzers can be safer options when used correctly.
 
Tanning beds come with the same dangers as the sun. They emit cancer-causing ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Whether you tan outside or inside, the ultraviolet (UV) radiation is the same, but in a tanning bed, it’s more concentrated. Just a heads-up: we’re not medical professionals, so this isn’t medical advice. If you have any questions or concerns, it’s always best to check with your doctor.
 

The Risks of Using a Tanning Bed While Pregnant

Using a tanning bed during pregnancy poses several risks that might surprise you. For starters, lying in a tanning bed can raise your body temperature to potentially unsafe levels for your baby, especially during the first trimester. An elevated body temperature above 102°F—common in tanning beds, hot tubs, and saunas—can increase the risk of birth defects.
 
There’s another concern as your pregnancy progresses, particularly after 20 weeks. The size and position of your uterus can make lying on your back for extended periods problematic. This position can restrict blood flow to your heart, which in turn limits blood flow to your baby. If this happens, you might feel lightheaded—a clear sign to change position.
 
Lastly, tanning has an added downside for pregnant women: UV exposure, whether from tanning beds or the sun, can increase the likelihood of melasma developing. These dark patches often appear on the face or arms during pregnancy and can be challenging to manage.
Considering these risks, skipping the tanning bed during pregnancy is a safer choice for you and your baby.
 

A Source of Vitamin D?

Did you know that tanning beds aren’t the vitamin D boosters some people think they are? Despite the common belief, the American Academy of Dermatology confirms that tanning beds don’t significantly help your body make vitamin D. Why? The bulbs in tanning beds primarily emit UVA light, but your body relies on UVB light to produce vitamin D.
 
For a safer and healthier approach, board-certified dermatologists recommend getting vitamin D from your diet. You can find it naturally in foods like fatty fish and egg yolks or through fortified options such as milk, orange juice, and cereals.
 
Caring for yourself during pregnancy is essential for your baby’s health and well-being. Prioritize prenatal care, nourish your body with the right foods, stay active with regular exercise, and avoid smoking and alcohol. These simple, practical steps can greatly boost your chances of a healthy pregnancy.
 

Blocking Folic Acid?

There’s another concern about UV exposure during pregnancy. UV rays can break down folic acid. Folic acid is an important building block your baby needs to grow a healthy nervous system. 
 
Studies have shown that the UV rays that indoor tanning beds put off can break down folic acid. Your baby is the most vulnerable to the negative effects of UV radiation in your first trimester and at the beginning of the second. This time is when your baby’s brain lays the building blocks for brain development.
 

Using Self-tanner While Pregnant

Self-tanning lotions, creams, and foams are safe to use during pregnancy so that you can enjoy a sun-kissed glow without worry. These products work as surface dyes that don’t penetrate deeply into the skin or harm your developing baby.
 
The active ingredient, dihydroxyacetone (DHA), is often derived from natural sources like sugar beets or sugar cane and has been FDA-approved since the 1970s. Although there haven’t been specific studies on DHA’s effects on unborn babies, the amount absorbed through the skin is minimal. Experts agree it’s safe for use during pregnancy.
 
Sticking with a foam or cream self-tanner is safer than getting a spray tan. With spray tans, you risk inhaling the chemicals in the spray, which would cause them to reach your baby.
 
Thanks to significant improvements in self-tanners, you can achieve a natural, streak-free look without any concern about ending up with an overly orange hue. It’s a simple way to maintain your glow while keeping your peace of mind!
  

Lifetime Adoption Has Answers if You Have Other Questions

Can you use a tanning bed while pregnant? It’s best to use a pregnancy-safe self-tanning lotion to get that sun-kissed look you’re craving. Tanning beds aren’t safe—pregnant or not—and skipping the base tan altogether is even better. Embrace your natural pregnancy glow—it’s the safest choice!
 
Facing an unexpected pregnancy can bring up many emotions, including fear and uncertainty. You may find yourself asking, “Is adoption the right choice for me?” It’s important to know you’re not alone—many others have walked this path before you, and support is available every step of the way.
 
You have access to resources, guidance, and information to help you navigate this challenging time. Understanding your options and staying informed can empower you to make the decision that feels right for you. Remember, you don’t have to face this journey alone.
  
Lifetime Adoption has been helping women considering adoption since 1986. Our staff is available to help you any time, day or night, to provide information about adoption and the services we provide. Call or text Lifetime Adoption at 1-800-923-6784 to learn more.
 

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Editor’s Note: This article was originally published on May 19, 2017, and has since been updated.