The 15 Best Expert-Approved Pregnancy-Safe Self-Tanners To Buy In 2024
Enhance your pregnancy glow and get a bronzed look by applying some safe, at-home tanners.
Dr. Anna H. ChaconMD, FAAD
Dr. Anna Chacon is a board-certified dermatologist specializing in medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology with over 9 years of experience. She enjoys practicing all aspects of dermatology and is licensed to practice in 49 states. She i... more
oyendrila kanjilalMA, Certified Skin Care Coach
Experience: 2 yearsOyendrila holds a master's degree in English Literature from the University Of Calcutta, West Bengal, and is a certified skin care coach. As a beauty and lifestyle writer with two years of experience,... more
shiboli chakrabortiMA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach
Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor,... more
Image: StyleCraze Design Team
Pregnancy skin is delicate. It needs good care, and staying long hours in the Sun for getting a tanned glow is not advisable. What you need instead is the best pregnancy-safe self-tanner. These self-tanners include DHA that helps to mimic artificial tan. It helps to tan your skin without having to stay in the Sun for hours. It is considered a safer technique as pregnant women will not be exposed to UVA and UVB rays or will not have to go to the salon and lay down uncomfortably on a tanning bed.
These sunless tanners, or self-tanners are infused with natural ingredients that are safe and gentle on your skin. Such toxin-free products may be safe for the mothers-to-be. In this article, we have compiled a list of the 15 best pregnancy-friendly self-tanners. Check them out below!
Note: DHA (Dihydroxyacetone) is the main ingredient in many self-tanning products that are safe to use during pregnancy, according to The College Of Family Physicians Of Canada. DHA combines with the skin’s outermost layer of amino acids and creates a beautiful tan. Systematic level interaction will be minimal on topical application (1).
Medical experts say it is ideal to avoid using self-tanner during the first trimester.
It is advisable to consult a doctor before using a self-tanner during pregnancy.
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Vita Liberata Advanced Organics Fabulous Self-Tanning Gradual Lotion $30.0 ON AMAZON Read More › $30.0 ON AMAZON - 10
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In This Article
15 Best Pregnancy-Safe Self-Tanners
.St. Tropez Self Tan Express Advanced Bronzing Mousse
The St. Tropez Self Tan Express is a pregnancy-approved self-tanner that offers a range of benefits. This is a streak-free, mood-boosting, non-sticky, and quick-drying advanced bronzing mousse. It gives a healthy-looking tan that lasts for 2 to 3 hours. This 100% vegan-formula is made with glycerin and organic aloe vera leaf extract that nourish and hydrate the skin. This mousse leaves no self-tan smell. This pregnancy-safe self-tanner offers a natural glow and imparts a bronze- or olive-toned complexion. Check out this product review video to learn about the tester’s experience with it.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Non-greasy
- Quick-absorbing
- Ultra-hydrating
- 100% vegan formula
- Streak-free
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Phthalate-free
- 100% naturally derived dihydroxyacetone (DHA)
Cons
- Fades soon
- Imparts a light color
Pro TipAvoid taking showers in hot water as it can make the tan fade faster. Instead, take a cold bath or with lukewarm water.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 2,185 reviews, this product has become a fan favorite among users.
Best For First-Time Tanners: Bondi Sands Self Tanning Foam
The Bondi Sands Self Tanning Foam is a lightweight tanner that offers light to medium complexion lasting for six hours and is one of the most hydrating self-tanners for pregnancy. It is enriched with aloe vera and infused with the strong scent of coconuts, which leaves your skin feeling hydrated and refreshed. This lightweight self-tanning foam will give a sun-kissed glow with an olive complexion. Take a look at this video link to get more information on the product and the tester’s experience with it.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Non-streaky
- Gives a darker glow
- Hydrating formula
- Refreshing
- Easy to apply
Cons
- Not suitable for skin that is too sensitive
- Not a long-lasting tan
- Fragrance could be too intense
"I love the foamy texture of this tanner. It glides smoothly on my skin and looks even. I use a small amount of product, and it is enough for my upper body. It takes time to develop the tan, but once it does, the effect lasts for weeks. It has a nice coconut fragrance that lifts my mood."
Pro TipAvoid body washes with chemical exfoliators and active ingredients like salicylic acid or glycolic acid that can exfoliate the top layers of the skin and fade the tan.
Best Natural Self Tanner: Beauty By Earth Self Tanner
The Beauty By Earth Self Tanner is infused with all the natural ingredients that give a healthy tan without exposing your skin to the harsh UVA and UVB rays. This non-streaking formula is infused with aloe vera leaf juice, shea butter, dihydroxyacetone (DHA), organic coconut oil, glycerin, Japanese green tea leaf extract, organic pomegranate, hazelnut, cranberry fruit extract, along with an elixir blend of jojoba and argan oils.
The emollient formula with Japanese green tea leaf extract hydrates and nourishes the skin. The DHA in the tanner is a safe, non-toxic sugar ingredient that interacts with the top protein layer of the skin for a natural tan look. The elixir blend of oils protects the skin from environmental aggressors. This video offers a more detailed explanation of this long-lasting self-tanner along with the tester’s experience with it.
Pros
- 100% vegan formula
- Covers blemishes and imperfections
- Masks early signs of aging
- Non-streaking
- Non-toxic
Cons
- Not a soothing smell
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Almost 7,869 happy users have mentioned the value and quality of this product.
| St. Tropez Self Tan Express Advanced Bronzing Mousse | Bondi Sands Self Tanning Foam | Beauty By Earth Self Tanner | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | All | - | All, Combination, Sensitive, Dry, Normal |
| Dimensions | 2.1 x 2.4 x 2.1 inches | 1.77 x 1.77 x 8.54 inches | 2 x 2 x 7 inches |
| Weight | 9 Ounces | 9.88 Ounces | 8 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 2,185 | 28,063 | 7,869 |
| Price | $46 | $24 | $34.99 |
Affordable: Jergens Natural Glow Instant Sun Body Mousse
If you’re looking for an even application self-tanner for pregnancy that provides a sun-drenched tan in just 60 seconds, the Jergens Natural Glow Instant Sun Body Mousse is an ideal choice. This lightweight, airy mousse gets absorbed in the upper layer of the skin super-quickly and leaves a moisturized, natural tan look. The color develops instantly into a natural bronze, and will continue even after several hours until it merges with your natural skin tone. This lightweight formula is buildable and can be applied again the next day.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Dermatologist-tested
- Airy mousse
- Gets quickly absorbed
- Blends with the natural skin tone
- Available in light and deep bronze varieties
- Flawless, streak-free tan
- Infused with tropical fruity fragrance
- Easy to apply
- Affordable
Cons
- Consistency could be too thin
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received over 3,405 rave reviews on Amazon, proving it is a mass favorite.
Skinerals Californium Self Tanner Mousse
The Skinerals Californium Self Tanner Mousse transforms pale, dull-looking skin into gorgeous skin that glows naturally without any botches. This airy, lightweight mousse is made with a natural blend of skin-soothing, healing, and moisturizing aloe vera and glycerin. It also contains safe coloring ingredients namely DHA and erythrulose. The mousse also has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-aging superfruits (Indian gooseberry, acai berry, fig extract, Goji berry extract, green and white tea extracts) to masks blemishes, wrinkles, and dark spots. These ingredients also protect the skin from UVA and UVB damage. The vitamins A, C, and E rebuild the skin barrier. This lightweight, non-greasy, and fast-absorbing mousse leaves you with a pleasant feeling.
Pros
- Pure natural blend
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Aerosol-free
- 100% vegan
- Non-greasy formula
- Quick to dry
- Pleasant smell
- Imparts a natural look
- Fast-absorbing
- Lasts 4 to 7 days with one application
Cons
- Expensive
- Leaves a little streak
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has received 4,152 reviews from customers on Amazon, indicating its popularity and reliability.
Sun Laboratories Ultra Dark Self Tanning Lotion
The Sun Laboratories Ultra Dark Self Tanning Lotion is an organic sugar-based formula that works super-fast. It imparts a natural, ultra-dark tan that lasts for several hours. It is formulated with a natural blend of ingredients that nourish, revitalize, restore, and enhance skin texture and elasticity. This quick self-tanner pairs well with your perfect pregnancy glow and protects the skin from environmental aggressors.
Pros
- Fast-absorbing formula
- Gives a dark tan
- Infused with natural ingredients
- Protects the skin
- Fast-drying
- Paraben-free
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- May leave streaks
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has garnered over 4,312 positive reviews on Amazon, and the number continues to grow.
Best Organic Self-Tanner: Miami Gorgeous LaPlaya Glow Self Tanning Mousse
The Miami Gorgeous LaPlaya Glow Self Tanning Mousse is a fast-absorbing formula that gives an instant bronze glow that lasts long without damaging the skin making it one of the best bronzing self-tanners for pregnancy. It is infused with a premium blend of argan oil, vitamins A, C, and D, coconut oil, olive oil, jojoba oil, Elderflower extract, and a radiant bronzing complex. The organic DHA in the mousse offers a smooth, safe, streak-free bronze tan. It smoothly gets absorbed on the outer protein layer of the skin and imparts a natural glow. The emollient blend of organic oils nourishes and rejuvenates the skin. The vitamin blend protects the skin from free radical damage. The sunless tanning lotion is perfectly safe for all skin types (including sensitive skin).
Pros
- Gives an instant bronze tan
- Paraben-free
- Gluten-free
- Cruelty-free
- Eco-certified DHA
- Nourishing and ultra-hydrating
- Safe for all skin types
- Infused with natural ingredients
Cons
- May leave a streak
- Unpleasant smell
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
There are more than 1,784 Amazon reviews attesting to the quality of the product and endorsing its value.
Golden Star Beauty Self Tanner Lotion
The Golden Start Beauty Self Tanner Lotion is a 100% streak-free, non-sticky, and formula. It gives a perfect, golden bronze tan. This self-tanning lotion is infused with certified organic oils and hyaluronic acid that offer a nourished and moisturized look. The invigorating blend of elixir oils (olive oil, argan oil, jojoba oil, coconut oil, and almond oil) nourishes, revitalizes, hydrates, and protects the skin from sun damage. The deeply-nourishing organic oils mask the signs of premature aging, and cover the blemishes, fine lines, and wrinkles. The hyaluronic acid deeply moisturizes the skin.
Pros
- No fake tan smell
- 100% streak-free
- Non-sticky
- Non-comedogenic
- Transfer-resistant
- Paraben-free
- Gluten-free
- 100% vegan
- Certified organic formula
- Improves skin tone
- Minimizes the appearance of fine lines
- Easy to use
Cons
- Not suitable for super-sensitive skin
"This formula spreads nicely on my skin without developing streaky lines. It lends my skin a beautiful golden brown tan. I like that it is devoid of any artificial scent. The product never clogs my pores and stains my clothes. The best part is that it absorbs nicely into my skin without making it sticky."
The Vita Liberata Advanced Organics Fabulous Self-Tanning Gradual Lotion is made with 100% natural certified organic botanicals. Its Odor Remove Technology ensures a no-smell, un-tinted lotion that transfers no tan on the clothes or bedding. It is infused with aloe vera, lychee extract, licorice, and raspberry extract that hydrate, nourish, and rejuvenate the skin. The antioxidant properties of lychee extract, aloe vera, and raspberry extract protect the skin from oxidative damage. They also mask blemishes and fine lines and leave you with a younger-looking appearance. The tanner offers daily skin hydration to combat dry skin and leave it feeling soft and supple.
Pros
- Zero smell
- No buildup on bed or clothes
- Natural organic ingredients
- Delivers 72 hours of hydration
- Suitable for all skin tones
- Gentle to sensitive skin
- Paraben-free
- Fragrance-free
- Alcohol-free
- Non-toxic
- Easy to apply
Cons
- None
Pro TipUse a moisturizer on your body regularly with along with hydrating lotions to keep your skin nourished and prevent any peeling.
Best Anti-Aging Small Batch Reserve Formula: Famous Dave’s Professional Self-Tanner
The Famous Dave’s Professional Self-Tanner is a paraben-free self-tanning formula with anti-aging and moisturizing properties. It is formulated with an FDA-certified organic blend of argan oil, hyaluronic acid, coenzyme Q10, aloe vera, sesame, and jojoba oil. This creamy-smooth dark tanning lotion moisturizes and nourishes the skin and leaves a silky smooth texture with a beautiful glow. The coenzyme Q10, sesame oil, and jojoba seed oil are rich in antioxidants that protect the skin from oxidative damage and environmental aggressors. Matrixyl 3000, a serum with hyaluronic acid, reduces the appearance of wrinkles. This creamy lotion evenly spreads on the entire body and gives you the most natural-looking tan.
Pros
- Formulated with organic ingredients
- Perfect for all skin types
- No orange coloration or streaking
- Paraben-free
- Anti-aging formula
- Easily blends with the body
- Easy to use
Cons
- Very light tanning effect
Perfect Sunless Tanning Lotion: L’Oreal Paris Sublime Bronze Self-Tanning Lotion
If you want to treat yourself with a natural bronze tan, the L’Oreal Paris Sublime Bronze Self-Tanning Lotion can be ideal for you. It is a streak-free tanning lotion formulated with vitamin E and gentle AHA (alpha-hydroxy acids). They leave the skin smooth and soft. The lotion gently moisturizes the skin with a perfect sunless tan.
Pros
- Moisturizes the skin
- Protects from sun damage
- Provides a streak-free color
- Easy to use
Cons
- Very light tan
- Leaves an orange tanning color
"This tanner offers good coverage. It glides smoothly on my skin and lends it a beautiful tan. The formula moisturizes my skin and boosts its natural melanin production. It never leaves residues on my skin. I like that the product never makes my skin look orange."
Eco Tan Invisible Tan Organic Face Body Tanning Lotion
The Eco Tan Invisible Tan Organic Face Body Tanning Lotion gives an instant glowing instant tan that lasts for 8 hours with a single application. It is best-suited to medium to dark skin tones and blends smoothly. It is infused with natural ingredients that deliver a beautiful, golden bronze glow. The invigorating blend of avocado, aloe vera, and macadamia oil with chamomile extract deeply nourishes and hydrates the skin.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Certified organic natural ingredients
- Smoothly blends into the skin tone
- Nourishes and hydrates the skin
- Suitable for face and body application
- No fake tan smell
Cons
- May stain clothes and towels
- Expensive
"I love how quickly the product develops a golden tan on my skin. The formula applies smoothly to my skin. It never itches my skin or irritates it. The product has a distinct but mild scent. I like that it never creates unflattering streaks on my skin."
Norvell Sunless Self-Tanner Mousse
The Norvell Sunless Self-Tanner Mousse is one of the best professional tanning mousses that can easily be applied at home. It is lightweight and easily blends with the skin tone for an instant incredible glow from head to toe. The sunless tanning product is formulated with natural organic botanical extracts that nourish, hydrate, and rejuvenate the skin. Its antioxidants delay aging signs, and fade blemishes and other imperfections. The vitamin C tightens the skin and improves skin elasticity. The premium-grade DHA develops a deeper, darker tan that lasts for 24 hours. The mousse leaves no tanning smell and is a good pregnancy-safe self-tanner. It is not tested on animals as well.
Pros
- Creamy rich professional tanning mousse
- Lightweight
- Easily blends with the skin
- Hydrates and nourishes the skin
- Tanning lasts longer
- No tanning smell
- Streak-free
- Gluten-free
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Anti-aging formula
- Protects the skin
- Soothing fragrance
Cons
- May dry the skin out
"This tanning mousse has a buildable formula that applies easily to my skin. The formula feels lightweight, and it never leaves residues behind. It lends my skin an even tan. My skin looks smooth and firm after I apply this product. It never irritates my skin."
Lavera Organic Self-Tanning Body Lotion
The Lavera Organic Self-Tanning Body Lotion is fast-absorbing. It contains macadamia nut, organic aloe vera, organic jojoba, and sunflower oil. Macadamia nut is rich in omega-7 fatty acids that help retain skin suppleness. It also contains vitamin E and squalene that protect the skin from oxidative damage. The organic oils of aloe vera, jojoba, and sunflower nourish and hydrate the skin. The lotion creates a safe, natural-looking tan.
Pros
- Fast-absorbing
- Hydrates and nourishes the skin
- Protects the skin from oxidative damage
- Streak-free
- Refreshing fragrance
- Easy to use
Cons
- Not suitable for very sensitive skin
- Strong fragrance
"This tanning lotion moisturizes my skin and leaves it feeling soft to the touch. It lends a gorgeous tan to my skin, which lasts for weeks. The formula is lightweight, and it never dries my skin or makes it look patchy. It glides smoothly on my skin without staining my clothes."
Coola Organic Sunless Tan Firming Lotion
The Coola Organic Sunless Tan Firming Lotion eases you into a healthy, golden glow while nourishing your skin. The streak-free, transfer-resistant tanning lotion builds a gradual, subtle tan over several days (thanks to its natural pina colada scent). The lotion has a buildable formula made with 99% organic ingredients that nourish the skin. The emollient shea butter and caffeine help skin look firmer and smoother. The lotion also contains brown algae that improves skin elasticity and hydrates the skin instantly. The pea extract increases microcirculation and encourages healthy skin cell growth.
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Dermatologist-tested
- Non-GMO
- Vegan
- Reef-riendly
- Gives a streak-free natural glow
- Antioxidant-rich
- Moisturizes and hydrates the skin
- Transfer-resistant
- Natural pina colada fragrance
- Firms and smoothens the skin
Cons
- None
These are the fifteen best pregnancy-safe self-tanners that you can buy online without exposing yourself to UV radiation. But, can you tan while pregnant? We have discussed the same in the following section.
Can You Tan During Pregnancy?
Applying a tanner with natural ingredients protects the skin from UVA and UVB rays, and prevents damage due to radiation.
However, there is no clear evidence stating the safety of using a self-tanner during pregnancy.
As pregnancy is a delicate phase of a woman’s life, it always is better to consult a gynecologist before using any topical lotion or cream.
If your gynecologist approves, you can go ahead and apply a self-tanning lotion. You can also check if it is gynaecologically-tested or doctor-recommended to avoid any undesirable side effects. Perform a patch test without fail as well. Ensure to choose a product with clinically-tested ingredients and a good number of positive reviews or reviewer’s experience. Also, do not forget to check people’s experience after using the product.
Here is the expert-recommended way of applying a self-tanning product if you’re not sure where to start.
The Best Way Of Applying A Self-Tanning Product
- Spend some time exfoliating your skin’s thick areas, including your ankles, knees, and elbows. Allow your skin to dry.
- Massage the tanning lotion in a circular motion onto the different areas of your body, like the torso, arms, and legs. Avoid applying to the stomach as you are carrying a fetus in your womb.
- You may use a damp towel to wipe away any extra lotion. Let the tanning lotion dry naturally.
- The products are only for external application, so it is advised to not use them in an uninformed manner.
Dr. Anna Chacon, certified dermatologist, says, “Apply a self-tanner at least ten to fifteen minutes before putting on your clothes. Exfoliate the skin a few days before using the tanner for the best effects.”
There are too many self-tanners on the market. The following section can help you make a wise buying decision.
Tips To Choose The Right Tanning Lotion
- Go for a product that contains natural ingredients that nourish, moisture, and hydrate your skin.
- Select a lotion containing DHA-formula-based tanning ingredients. FDA has suggested the application of DHA externally. It gets absorbed into the outer layer of the skin and protects the inner layer.
- During pregnancy, the skin becomes super-sensitive. Avoid products with strong fragrances or harsh chemicals. Even some fresh scents may irritate the skin.
- Just like any other cosmetic product, choose a non-comedogenic tanning lotion that won’t clog your pores or cause acne breakouts.
- Pick a self-tanning lotion that is free from parabens, sulfates, and made with 100% organic ingredients.
- It is advisable to use the safest self tanner available only after a gynecologist consultation to ensure if it is pregnancy-safe or not.
Infographic: A Guide To Pregnancy-Safe Self-Tanners
If you wish to have a tan during pregnancy, choose self-tanning products for pregnancy devoid of harmful ingredients. Knowing what to look for in the product is better than putting your baby at risk.
Check out the infographic below to understand what to consider while purchasing a self-tanner during pregnancy. Take a closer look at the ingredients you must avoid while choosing the tanning product. Keep scrolling! Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Pregnancy can cause several changes to your body and skin due to hormonal changes. When exposed to UV rays, the delicate pregnancy skin can suffer irritation and redness. During those days, if you wish to have a tan, you can try self-tanning products that are gentle on the skin and protect it from the harmful effects of the sun. The St. Tropez Self Tan Express Advanced Bronzing Mousse offers a non-sticky and streak-free tan, while the Norvell Sunless Self-Tanner Mousse offers a dark and deep tan that lasts for 24 hours. But if you are looking for something for medium and dark skin tones, try the Eco Tan Invisible Tan Organic Face Body Tanning Lotion. The products on our list are infused with vegan ingredients that smooth your skin. Many of them are non-greasy and paraben-free. Some of them can also be used like a daily moisturizer. However, some products may have intense fragrances, and not all products suit every skin type. So, read the reviews well and consult your doctor to be extra safe before picking up a product.
Why Trust Stylecraze?
The author of this article, Oyendrila Kanjilal, is a certified skin care coach. She knows what is good for the skin and finds products that suit every skin type. She has deep interest in reviewing and learning about new products. Here, she has prepared this list of the best pregnancy-approved self-tanners for her readers. She has browsed through several online forums to check user feedback and researched the ingredients before shortlisting the top products for the list. These are made with natural ingredients that are safe and gentle on your skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is DHA in self-tanners safe during pregnancy?
Yes. DHA self-tanners do not get absorbed into the body and your baby is not exposed to it.Therefore, these products are safe during pregnancy.
Can we put a pregnancy-safe self-tanner on the face?
Yes. You can put a pregnancy-safe self-tanner on the face. It does not harm the baby as it does not get absorbed into the body.
How do I get self-tanner off my hands?
Exfoliation and using lemon juice go a long way in helping you remove self-tanner off your hands.
What are some good pregnancy-friendly self-tanners that don’t make you look orange?
The Bondi Sands Self-Tanning Foam is known to give a perfectly bronzed tan without making you look orange.
Consult your doctor before picking a product from this list. Go for products that have natural ingredients. We are sure you will have a good experience!
References
Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Read our editorial policy to learn more.
- Bozzo, Pina, Angela Chua-Gocheco, and Adrienne Einarson. “Safety of skin care products during pregnancy.” Canadian Family Physician 57.6 (2011): 665-667.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3114665/ - Pregnancy and Tanning. (2019, October 31). Retrieved June 17, 2021.
https://americanpregnancy.org/is-it-safe/tanning-during-pregnancy/
