Can I Get a Spray Tan While Pregnant?

Spray tan in pregnancy? Doc says not worth the risk due to lack of data.

—Christine

There is no data, as your doctor notes. To slightly flesh that out: there is an active ingredient in spray tanning (dihydroxyacetone) that interacts with the amino acids in your skin to produce the “tan” effect. (Side note: Until researching this question, I thought spray tanning was like paint, which I now realize is insane but goes to show you that one should do research.)

Data on absorption of these products suggest that there is minimal concern about absorption through the skin. In using a spray-tanning booth, though, there is the possibility of inhaling the spray, which could increase the exposure. Is this dangerous? We do not know!

This is an example where, in the absence of good, reliable evidence, doctors tend to err on the side of caution. Self-tanning tends to be in the realm of the “not strictly necessary,” so the standard of safety is higher.

If you find you are feeling that this does feel closer to necessary, a self-spray tan while wearing a mask is an option, or a cream self-tanner.