Is it safe to get a spray tan while breastfeeding?

Is It Safe to Get a Spray Tan While Breastfeeding?
As many new mothers seek ways to feel rejuvenated and confident, the question of whether it is safe to get a spray tan while breastfeeding has become increasingly relevant. With the popularity of spray tanning on the rise, understanding the implications for breastfeeding mothers is essential.
The Science Behind Spray Tans
The primary active ingredient in most spray tans is dihydroxyacetone (DHA). This chemical works by reacting with the amino acids in the skin’s outer layer, resulting in a bronzed appearance. While DHA is approved by the FDA for external use, concerns arise regarding its safety for breastfeeding mothers and their infants. Experts suggest that while DHA is generally considered safe when applied topically, there is a risk if the chemical is ingested by the baby through breastfeeding shortly after the mother has been sprayed.
Recommendations for Safety
To minimize any potential risks, experts recommend that breastfeeding mothers take certain precautions. One key piece of advice is to wait to breastfeed until after the color guide has been washed off. This practice not only prevents the baby from ingesting any residual product but also avoids the embarrassment of a potentially orange-tinted infant.
Additionally, it is advisable for mothers to avoid spraying the breast area entirely or to cover the nipples and areola during the tanning process. This precaution helps to prevent any direct contact between the tanning solution and the baby’s skin, which could lead to irritation or allergic reactions.
Expert Opinions
Dr. Samantha Bunting, a cosmetic dermatologist, emphasizes that while the risk of significant harm is low, it is always better to err on the side of caution. She advises mothers to ensure that they are in a well-ventilated area during the spray tanning process and to follow all safety guidelines provided by the tanning salon.
Moreover, some experts suggest that the concentration of DHA in spray tans is higher than in self-tanning products, which could pose a greater risk. Therefore, for those who are particularly concerned, opting for self-tanning lotions with lower DHA concentrations might be a safer alternative.
Conclusion
In summary, while getting a spray tan while breastfeeding is not outright dangerous, it does require careful consideration and adherence to safety practices. By waiting to breastfeed after the tanning session and avoiding contact with the breast area, mothers can enjoy the benefits of a sun-kissed glow without compromising their baby’s safety. As always, consulting with a healthcare provider for personalized advice is recommended.

Can you use sunless tanners while breastfeeding?

The FDA (Food & Drug Administration) deems spray tanning and self tanning as safe for external application during pregnancy and breastfeeding. I am a pro spray artist and personally ask my clients to get a physician approval before treatment, and only after the first trimester. I hope this helps!

Can I wear fake tan when breastfeeding?

DHA is the active ingredient in self-tanner and has been proven safe for external use as it absorbs into the skin and does not enter the blood stream, therefore posing no risk to the well-being of your baby.

Does spray tanning affect breastfeeding?

Although there’s currently no research to indicate spray tanning while breastfeeding is going to do any harm to the baby, the immune system of newborns is significantly more susceptible to allergens than the average adult, so it’s optimal to choose an allergen-free, organic spray tan solution.

Is spray tan bad for baby?

These products are basically dyes that stay on the surface of your skin and won’t harm your developing baby. Dihydroxyacetone (DHA), the active ingredient that makes your skin darker, often comes from plant sources like sugar beets or sugar cane and was approved by the FDA in the 1970s.

Can you tan if you are breastfeeding?

It’s fine it doesn’t affect the baby it doesn’t affect your milk supply. Nothing. Now there are inherent risks with using tanning salons that if you spoke with your dermatologist.

Can you fake tan while breastfeeding NHS?

It’s fine to have dental treatments, local anaesthetics, injections (including MMR, tetanus and flu injections) and most operations. You can also dye, perm or straighten your hair, use fake tan and wear false nails.

Is getting a spray tan safe while pregnant?

While there haven’t been studies on the impact of dihydroxyacetone on unborn babies, a negligible amount is absorbed into your system when you use it on your skin, so experts say it’s okay to use while pregnant.

Can I hold my baby after a spray tan?

You do however need to take care when applying fake tan (or indeed any cosmetics) when your baby is close, and you need to ensure the fake tan is dry or has been rinsed off before having skin-to-skin contact to avoid accidentally ‘tanning’ your baby.

How long after a tattoo can I breastfeed?

Generally, it is thought that ink molecules are too large to pass into breast milk after receiving a tattoo. However, tattoo ink can take months and even years to break down in the body, so there’s just no way of knowing right now if you can safely nurse after getting a tattoo.

What cosmetic procedures are safe during breastfeeding?

Patients who are lactating
(2013) summarized that most cosmetic procedures such as botulinum toxin A, chemical peeling, and lasers are safe to use during lactation since there is low concern for significant systemic absorption of any of the agents used in these procedures.