Most OB-GYNs consider an occasional spray tan acceptable during pregnancy because DHA, the active ingredient, does not penetrate beyond the outer layer of dead skin. The bigger concern is inhalation during the spray tan process, since it has not been studied enough in pregnancy. Because of that, many doctors recommend waiting until after the first trimester, taking precautions during the appointment, and checking with your OB-GYN first.
Key Takeaways
- The usual recommendation is to wait until after the first trimester because early pregnancy is when fetal development is most sensitive.
- Wearing a mask, nose filters, and using a well-ventilated room may help reduce unnecessary exposure during a spray tan appointment.
- Pregnancy can increase skin sensitivity, dryness, and irritation, so patch testing before the appointment may be helpful.
- Organic spray tans may contain fewer harsh additives, but most still use DHA, so the same inhalation precautions still apply.
- Self-tanning lotions, mousses, and bronzing makeup are popular alternatives for women who prefer to avoid spray tan booths during pregnancy.
Can You Get a Spray Tan While Pregnant?
Many doctors consider spray tanning low risk during pregnancy because DHA only affects the surface layer of the skin.
The main concern is inhalation during the appointment, especially in enclosed spray tan booths. Research on inhaling DHA during pregnancy is limited, which is why many OB-GYNs recommend waiting until after the first trimester and taking extra precautions during the session.
What’s Actually in a Spray Tan
The main ingredient in most spray tans is DHA, short for dihydroxyacetone. DHA reacts with dead skin cells on the surface of the skin to create a darker appearance that develops over several hours.
The FDA permits DHA (dihydroxyacetone) for external application to the skin in sunless tanning products. The primary concern with spray tanning is not topical skin exposure itself, but unintended exposure through inhalation or contact with the eyes, lips, or mucous membranes during the spraying process. The FDA specifically notes that DHA has not been approved for use in ways that may result in inhalation or exposure to these areas.
The Real Concern Is Inhalation, Not Absorption
The biggest concern with spray tanning during pregnancy is inhalation, not skin absorption. DHA stays on the outer layer of the skin, but the lungs absorb substances differently than the skin does.
During a spray tan session, small airborne particles can be breathed in through the nose or mouth, especially in enclosed booths with poor ventilation. There are limited pregnancy-specific studies on inhaling DHA, which is why many doctors and salons take a more cautious approach.
To reduce exposure, it would be best to use:
- Nose filters
- Mask
- Ear filters
At the moment, there is no strong evidence showing harm from occasional spray tanning during pregnancy, but there also are not enough long-term studies to make definitive claims. That uncertainty is why precautions matter.
Spray Tan in the First Trimester: Why Most Experts Say Wait
Many doctors recommend waiting until after the first trimester before getting a spray tan. Early pregnancy is an important stage of fetal development, so most precautionary advice tends to be more conservative during those first few months.
There’s also the comfort factor. Pregnancy can make you more sensitive to smells, heat, and enclosed spaces. Some women find that the scents feel stronger during the first trimester, especially if they are already dealing with nausea or morning sickness. Standing in an enclosed booth can also cause mild dizziness or discomfort.
Because of those factors, the best approach for most women will be to wait until the second trimester, when nausea and sensitivity often become more manageable.
Spray Tans in the Second and Third Trimester
For many pregnant women, the second trimester is often the most comfortable time to schedule appointments because nausea and smell sensitivity may improve.
Even then, comfort still matters. Standing for long periods, feeling overheated, or staying in an enclosed booth too long can become uncomfortable during pregnancy.
Some women also notice increased skin sensitivity because of hormonal changes, which can affect how the skin reacts to spray tan solution. A patch test may be helpful before the full appointment, especially if your skin has become more reactive, dry, or irritated during pregnancy.
During the third trimester, it’s still possible to get a spray tan, but sessions require more caution. Many women experience balance changes, dryness, and breathing discomfort during this trimester. This can make enclosed booths feel less comfortable than they normally would.
Precautions to Take Before, During, and After
If you decide to get a spray tan while pregnant, here are some precautions that may help reduce unnecessary exposure and make the appointment more comfortable.
Before Your Appointment
- Ask the salon about the ingredients used in the spray tan solution and how the room is ventilated.
- Do a patch test beforehand, especially if your skin has become more sensitive during pregnancy.
- Avoid spray tanning over broken, irritated, or freshly shaved skin.
- Stay hydrated and exfoliate gently before the appointment.
Check out this guide on how to prepare for a spray tan.
During the Appointment
- Wear nose and ear filters, and a mask.
- Use eye protection and lip balm to reduce exposure to sensitive areas.
- Try to avoid inhaling the spray mist directly.
- Wear loose clothing after the session to avoid rubbing or irritation.
If you worry that wearing a mask or nose filters during the appointment could leave lighter areas around the face. If needed, these areas can usually be blended later with a small amount of self-tanner applied carefully at home.
That tradeoff is worth it for many clients who want to reduce inhalation during the appointment. A slightly uneven area is usually much easier to manage than feeling uncomfortable about breathing in spray mist.
After Your Appointment
- Wait the recommended rinse time before showering.
- Keep the skin moisturized to help the tan develop and fade more evenly.
- Wash your hands thoroughly after the appointment.
- Monitor your skin for any signs of irritation, redness, or allergic reaction.
Organic and DHA-Alternative Spray Tans
Some salons offer organic spray tans made with more naturally derived ingredients and fewer harsh additives. These formulas are often free from parabens, sulfates, synthetic dyes, and heavy fragrances, which may appeal to pregnant clients trying to limit unnecessary chemical exposure.
In many organic spray tans, the main tanning ingredient, DHA, is still used. The difference is that the DHA may be plant-based and sourced from ingredients like sugar beets or sugar cane instead of synthetic sources.
Organic formulas also tend to use lighter ingredient blends with more skin-conditioning ingredients and fewer preservatives. That said, “organic” does not automatically mean risk-free during pregnancy.
Most organic spray tans still rely on DHA to create color, so the same precautions around inhalation still apply. It’s a good idea to review the ingredient list carefully and ask the salon questions if you have concerns about fragrances, preservatives, or other added ingredients.
Here you can learn more about organic spray tans and what makes them different.
Safer Alternatives If You’d Rather Skip the Booth
If you still want a glow during pregnancy but would rather avoid spray tanning booths, there are a few lower-exposure options to consider. In fact, the American Pregnancy Association has discussed these alternatives as some of the more practical choices.
Self-Tanning Lotions and Mousses
Self-tanning lotions and mousses are applied directly to the skin by hand, so there’s no aerosol mist involved. That reduces the concern around inhalation. These products still often use DHA to develop color, but they allow for more controlled application in a well-ventilated space at home.
Because pregnancy can make skin more sensitive, it’s still smart to do a patch test first and review the ingredient list carefully.
If you are looking for a self-tanning lotion, we recommend:
Bronzing Makeup
Bronzing makeup offers a more temporary option that washes off at the end of the day. Products like bronzing drops, body makeup, or tinted moisturizers can add warmth and color without using DHA at all.
For pregnant women who only want a glow for an event, photos, or a night out, bronzing makeup may feel like a low-commitment option.
When to Talk to Your OB-GYN
It’s always a good idea to check with your OB-GYN before getting a spray tan during pregnancy, but the conversation becomes more important if you have a high-risk pregnancy or specific medical concerns.
That includes women carrying multiples, anyone with a history of preterm labor, pregnancy complications, asthma or breathing issues, or skin conditions that may react more strongly to cosmetic products during pregnancy.
Your doctor can help you decide whether spray tanning feels reasonable for your situation and whether extra precautions make sense.
FAQ
What’s the Best Spray Tan for Pregnancy?
The best option during pregnancy usually includes lower-DHA options or alternatives that minimize the risk of internal exposure, such as self-tanners. If you decide to use a spray tan booth, make sure the area is well-ventilated and wear a mask or nose filters during the session. A patch test can also help reduce the risk of skin irritation, especially since pregnancy can make the skin more sensitive. Some women also prefer organic spray tan formulas because they often contain fewer harsh additives and fragrances.
Where Can I Get a Spray Tan Near Me During Pregnancy?
If you’re looking for a salon that takes pregnancy precautions seriously, SunsUp Tan & Wellness Spa, with locations in the Portland and Vancouver metro area, is an option to consider. Organic spray tan solutions are also available.
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