Contrary to popular belief, self-tans do not enter your bloodstream. “They only penetrate the very top layers of your epidermis, which naturally shed over seven to 10 days,” says Evans. “However, when you are in your first three months of pregnancy, we recommend consulting with your doctor.”
According to Evans, “Most doctors say it’s fine if you regularly use a self-tanner,” though if you’re new to it, it’s best to avoid. “Patch-testing self-tanners is also important while pregnant—even if you have used a product tons of times, your skin can change, and we want to avoid any allergic reaction.”
Dr. Camp agrees. “While dihydroxyacetone (DHA), the chemical in self-tanners that interacts with skin proteins to bronze the skin, may have limited systemic absorption when applied topically, there remains concern about its use in spray or aerosolized products because of the risk of inhalation,” he explains. “Always check with your ob-gyn prior to the use of skin care products with ingredients of concern, or skip it altogether to be safe.”