Can I use self-tanning products during pregnancy? | Self tanner

Can I use self-tanning products during pregnancy?

Self-tanners are considered safe for the foetus, but experts still advise against using tanning creams in the critical first three months. The skin of pregnant women changes due to the increase in hormones, the nipples become darker and pigmentation spots can develop. This can be further intensified by the use of self-tanning creams.

In addition, the typical smell of tanning creams can make morning sickness worse. After the first trimester, there is generally nothing to be said against using self-tanning products. However, care should be taken to ensure that self-tanning creams do not contain any psoralen substances that accelerate tanning, as these are suspected of being carcinogenic. Breastfeeding mothers should also avoid their breasts and nipples when tanning artificially, as traces of self-tanning cream could otherwise be swallowed by the baby.

What is the best way to remove self-tanning products?

Self-tanning creams and lotions stain particularly intensely in areas with thicker calluses. This often leads to unwanted and unsightly dark spots on hands, knees or feet. Normally the artificial tan disappears by itself after a few days due to the natural desquamation of the outermost skin layer.

In general, self-tanning agents cannot be removed completely immediately, as the brown pigments are embedded in the cells of the cornea, but there are several ways to lighten dark spots and help the natural flaking of the skin. Body peelings or a homemade mixture of coarse sea salt and olive oil remove the tanned callus, causing excessively dark spots to disappear. A special peeling glove can also be used for this purpose.

The affected areas can also be rubbed with whitening toothpaste or a sliced lemon, the skin is gently lightened by the fruit acid contained in the citrus fruit. Frequent showers or a hot foam bath soften the skin, which accelerates the fading of the artificially tanned skin. Annoying orange stains caused by tanning accidents can also be softened and partially removed by wetting a absorbent cotton pad with nail polish remover and rubbing it over the affected areas.

The acetone contained in the nail polish remover dissolves the self-tanning agent. Acetone should be used sparingly, however, as it is very aggressive and can lead to skin irritation and dehydration.