20 Best Pregnancy Safe Self Tanners (Ranked)

We’ve all used a tanning lotion at least once to try it out. Some women use it regularly without problems until they become pregnant.

That’s usually when they start looking for pregnancy safe self tanners as they don’t want to accidentally harm their baby.

Thankfully, there are various pregnancy safe self tanners containing little to no chemicals.

However, experts are usually divided on this topic because there haven’t been any concrete studies that prove whether or not pregnant women can use these products.

It is, however, generally considered that ingredients from natural and organic products won’t cause any damage if they’re for external use only.

Before you try any of these products, consult your doctor first. Just as you would pick a special pregnancy shampoo, creams, and lotions, the same thing should be applied to the tanner.

Here’s a list of the best self-tanners for pregnant ladies – I’m more than sure you’ll find a perfect product for this summer.

For all of you busy moms, here’s a quick list of our top picks!

The Best Pregnancy Safe Self Tanners Ranked

1. L’Oreal Sublime Bronze Self-Tanning Gelee

L’Oreal has been one of the leading companies in the cosmetic industry for decades and it still holds a high reputation for its skincare products.

Therefore, it’s no surprise that their bronzing self-tanner is one of the most popular products for summer, even for pregnant women!

Sublime Bronze Gelee is free from:

• Common allergens

• Gluten

• Coconut

• Paraben

• Common preservatives

• Lanolin

• Nickel

However, it’s not free from irritants and fragrances and it does contain oil, which provides additional care to the skin.

The main advantage of this product is that it doesn’t leave streaks and it’s easy to apply.

What I love about it is the color. You’ll get a nice natural bronze tan without any orangey spots and the skin feels nice and smooth after application.

However, it doesn’t dry very fast, so I would be cautious after applying it until it feels smooth.

The fragrance isn’t great, but it’s not the worst self-tanner smell either.

If you’re looking for an all-natural product, however, you should probably skip this one.

Still, all things considered, it’s one of the best self-tanners on the market.

2. St. Tropez Self-Tan Express Mousse

There are many products that contain chemicals unsuitable for pregnant women or people with sensitive skin.

Let’s be real, there’s no product on the market that’s 100% natural and highly functional.

St. Tropez self-tan mousse does contain chemicals, but it’s safe for all women.

This product is free from:

• Parabens

• Phthalates

• Sulfates

It contains dihydroxyacetone (DHA), but it’s naturally derived, which makes it safer to use.

With this product, you’ll get a natural tan without any streaks or greasiness on your skin.

I love this product because it’s lightweight and absorbs quickly, so you don’t have to be worried about leaving any stains behind.

But, it doesn’t last long – you’ll get two to three hours of color at most.

The short life span does, however, prove that most of the ingredients are naturally derived!

If you’re looking for a pregnancy-safe self-tanner with a 100% vegan formula, this is the one I’d strongly recommend!

3. Tan Towel Self Tan Towelette

Towelettes can be a huge hit or miss – I have felt both on my skin!

The main issue with towelettes generally is that they can leave lots of streaks and uneven color.

However, these towelettes have been a true discovery for me. This is a real hit, for sure, because they’re easy to use and leave no stains!

Another great thing about this product is the color. It’s neither too dark nor is it orange.

The main purpose of this product is to add a bit of a tint to the natural color, instead of completely changing it.

And don’t worry about the mess, because there isn’t any! Lotions and gels might leave traces in your bathroom after you use them, but that won’t happen with these towelettes.

You can use moisturizers before or after the application, it won’t affect the self-tanning product!

The smell is lovely, especially when considering the strong smell of other products, especially for a pregnant lady!

4. Bondi Sands Self Tanning Foam

Bondi Sands is another product with stellar reviews that you should take a look at.

Even though the product has to stay on for at least one hour before washing it off, its quality is undeniable.

It has a nice coconut smell, great color, and doesn’t leave any streaks (if you leave it on for an hour).

The main issue with this product is that it’s a bit sticky until it dries and will stain your clothes if you do the whole body at once.

The foam contains aloe vera, which will make your skin soft and hydrated.

However, it’s not long-lasting, so I wouldn’t bet on it lasting you the entire vacation.

5. Coco & Eve Sunny Honey Self-Tanning Lotion

This self-tanning set contains everything you need: a lotion, mitt, and a kabuki brush for easy application!

Many women search for products that provide a natural tan rather than the orange one commonly associated with self-tanners and I must admit that used to be a real challenge.

However, there are many high-quality products nowadays that offer a great tan and contain no harmful chemicals which makes them completely safe even for pregnant women.

Coco & Eve lotion is one such product as it contains DHA which is naturally derived along with natural antioxidants such as papaya, banana, cocoa, and fig.

These antioxidants are women’s best friends, especially during pregnancy, as they have anti-cellulite properties.

There will be no streaky areas or any uneven spots because this product dries fast on the skin and has a non-sticky formula.

It may be on the more expensive side but can last for a long time, so it’s worth its price.

This lotion is vegan, free from toxins, and completely safe for humans and animals, as it’s cruelty-free!

6. Norvell Sunless Self Tanner Mousse

Say hello to professional tanning from the comfort of your own home!

Who says you can’t have a nice summer tan while you’re pregnant?

Norvell is a great product that adds a beautiful bronzing tan to the skin without leaving any uneven spots.

This sunless tanner is a great option for all future mamas who want to avoid tanning beds or long exposure to UV rays from the sun.

The self-tanning mousse is made from botanical ingredients that also hydrate the skin and make it perfectly smooth.

The manufacturer recommends that the skin be exfoliated before using this product for the best results.

It’s lightweight on the skin, blends very easily, has no strong smell, and is non-comedogenic.

It contains an anti-aging formula as well so it’s really worth the investment!

7. Vichy Capital Idéal Soleil Moisturizing Self Tanner Milk

Vichy is definitely one of the best brands when it comes to skincare.

Their products are recommended by various dermatologists all over the world and it’s no surprise!

It can be applied to the facial area and body. According to the brand, it leaves no streaks, which could be argued as it depends on the skin tone and the application process.

I personally haven’t had any problems with this product, but some future mamas have complained about streaks.

This product won’t make you super-tanned, but it will add that bronze glow to your skin.

8. Skinerals Self Tanning Sunless Bronzer

This bronzing mousse will give your skin that beautiful summery color with a natural glow without any harsh chemicals.

Of course, it’s impossible to make a product without any chemicals, but Skinerals does their best to keep their product as natural and organic as possible.

This product contains:

• Glycerin

• Aloe vera

• Erythrulose

• DHA

• Acai berry

• Goji berry

• Indian gooseberry

• White and green tea

• Fig

These ingredients work together to provide protection from UV rays (UVA and UVB).

The product also contains vitamins A, C, and E which regenerate the skin.

It’s free from aerosol, sulfates, and parabens and dries quickly.

This is one of the best pregnancy-safe tanners if you don’t mind the possibility of a bit of a streak.

Streaks can be avoided if you use a mitt and apply the product fast enough.

9. Jergens Natural Glow Bronze Mousse

This is one of the most affordable tanning products on the market but it’s not made of organic or all-natural ingredients, so keep this in mind.

The best things about this tanner include quick absorption (60 seconds only) and a natural tan look, without the orange color.

The skin will continue to darken for hours before you take a shower, so be careful about the waiting time.

Jergens bronzer is streak-free, but it does require exfoliation before the whole process of application.

This product is lightweight on the skin and doesn’t leave an unpleasant smell.

However, it can be a bit sticky until it completely dries out.

This color is suitable for all women with a fair to medium skin color.

The application of the bronzer is easier than might be expected, especially with a mitt, but it has to be done quickly to avoid any spots.

Overall, Jergens’ mousse can be categorized as a pregnancy safe self tanner that may not be 100% organic but is still very affordable and efficient.

10. Botanic Tree Sunless Tanning Lotion

This tanning lotion will nourish your skin in ways such that you’ll want to apply it daily!

The product contains natural ingredients such as:

• Shea butter

• Aloe vera

• Coconut oil

• Moringa oil

• Jojoba oil

• Apricot oil

• Kernel oil

• Passionfruit, etc.

As you can see from this list, the product is plant-based and skin care-oriented.

The brand states that this product is completely streak-free, which is a bit of a stretch, but it actually depends more on the skin type and natural skin color.

A sun-kissed tan should be available to all, including pregnant ladies, and this brand claims they use only the best ingredients, without any toxic chemicals or parabens.

The skin will look and feel beautiful after applying this product because of the rich formula containing ten fruit extracts and shea butter.

This product can be used as a face tanner as well.

It may not be the best pregnancy self-tanner, but it’s definitely one of the safest ones.

11. Clarins Golden Glow Booster

This booster is a unique self tanning product because it mixes with other products, such as moisturizers or creams for optimal results.

Natural DHA is an active ingredient that’s often used in the cosmetic industry, especially for fake tan products like this one.

Clarins claims to use almost 100% organic ingredients and some basic chemicals that are completely safe.

The tan color is beautiful as there are no orange spots and it spreads evenly.

However, some think this product is a bit too pricey, especially because it has to be mixed with another product, which is considered to be an additional expense.

This product should not be used directly from the bottle to avoid any unwanted reactions.

12. Vita Liberata Self Tanning Lotion

I’d say this product is actually quite underrated.

This organic lotion is made of natural ingredients or certified botanicals.

It protects sensitive skin, moisturizes it, and leaves a beautiful tone on the skin.

Vita Liberata lotion includes:

• Aloe vera

• Licorice

• Raspberry extract

• Lychee extract

It also contains ingredients that ensure the tanner doesn’t leave a smell and prevents color transfer on clothes or furniture.

The skin is rejuvenated and hydrated after this treatment, especially sensitive skin like a pregnant lady’s!

There’s no need to use any hydrating product after this tanning lotion as it might leave dark spots or streak in combination with other lotions or moisturizers.

This lotion is one of the best pregnancy safe self tanners out there. It’s great for the skin and leaves a beautiful tan.

13. Beauty By Earth Self Tanner Lotion

This lotion has been one of my personal favorites for a long time and all because of the natural and organic ingredients that leave a beautiful pigment on your skin.

The Beauty By Earth tanning lotion contains only natural ingredients, such as:

• Aloe vera

• Shea butter

• Jojoba oil

• Argan oil

• Coconut oil

Unfortunately, many women can’t get a nice tan under the sun and usually end up with sunburn, which is not recommended for anyone, let alone a pregnant woman.

However, with self tanning lotions such as this one, pregnant ladies and those with sensitive skin are able to enjoy a beautiful summer glow on their skins as well!

The brand states that this product is meant for pale skin without leaving traces of orange on the skin!

It’s easy to apply and lasts for a long time which is why it’s one of my favorites, too!

14. Coola Sunless Tanning Lotion

Nothing says summer better than an ice-cold Piña Colada near the ocean or pool!

Although pregnant ladies might have to wait on these two things, they can still enjoy this natural tan lotion.

This product may be a bit more on the expensive side, but it’s definitely worth it. Instead of harsh chemicals, it contains:

• Water

• Shea Butter

• Lavender extract

• Pea extract

• Safflower seed

• Brown algae

All of these ingredients serve to nourish your skin and give it a beautiful tan.

The product is streak-free, vegan, transfer-resistant, and non-GMO.

Prepare for the application by exfoliating and removing everything that might cause blotches or uneven sections.

Coola is the perfect, healthy choice for all pregnant ladies who are afraid of using any chemicals on their bodies.

15. Dave’s Dark Sunless Tan Lotion

Famous Dave’s has been popular for a long time among sunless tanning fans.

The brand has completed the collection of ingredients with the anti-aging formula that contains coenzyme Q10.

These ingredients protect the skin, hydrate it, and add moisture, making it much more than just a regular tan lotion.

During pregnancy, many women notice their skin dries out much faster, so they avoid self-tanning products out of fear it might cause additional problems.

No need to fear with this product though as it contains ingredients that will hydrate your skin deeply.

It will definitely become one of your favorite skincare products this summer!

16. Eco Tan Invisible Tan Cream

The brand states this product doesn’t have any artificial ingredients, including toxic chemicals or synthetic compounds.

The product is very popular among all genders and generations, and with good reason.

However, I’d still say it might be a bit too dark for very pale skin, but it also depends on the final expectations you have.

The manufacturer strongly recommends exfoliation at least 24 hours before applying the tanning lotion.

This product has also won a bunch of awards so it’s safe to say it deserves a spot on this list of pregnancy safe self tanners.

17. Miami Gorgeous Self Tanning Mousse

Miami Gorgeous mousse is quite a popular tanning lotion even among pregnant women.

According to the brand, this product contains a bunch of vitamins and other nourishing ingredients, such as:

• Argan oil

• Elderflower extract

• Vitamin A, C, D

• Olive oil

• Coconut oil

• Jojoba oil

The mousse is completely lightweight on the skin and doesn’t leave any blotches or orange spots.

The product dries quickly, which means it’s not very sticky, but application should be completed as quickly as possible for the best results.

A vegan, gluten-free, paraben-free, and eco-certified DHA product can’t be bad for sure.

18. Fake Bake Flawless Self-Tanning Spray

This set will become your best friend when it comes to self tanning, especially if you are expecting a baby. Lots of pregnant women say it’s quite a challenge to apply most tanners, especially lotions or mousses.

However, this set contains a Fake Bake Tanning spray and a tanning mitt, which will make the application process easier and less messy.

The brand states that this product absorbs a lot faster than other products because there’s no moisturizer inside.

According to the manufacturer, the product is streak-free, but there have been some complaints about streaks.

However, this usually happens to people with paler complexions when they choose tanners with darker undertones.

This set is very easy to use and will be a really nice gift for a mom-to-be or even a stay-at-home mama.

19. ​Sun Laboratories Self Tanning Lotion

Unfortunately, not all products can make it to the top 10 list of pregnancy safe self tanners, even though most of these products deserve to be in such high places.

Natural tanners are mostly underrated, however, they’re slowly but surely taking over the market.

Such is the case with this brand, which has also made a healthier version of a sunless tanner which contains vitamin C and E, along with aloe vera, almond oil, and coconut.

It takes around three hours to get the best results which is a perfect sun-kissed tan for this summer.

Just because you’re pregnant doesn’t mean you can’t have a great tan!

20. Golden Star Beauty Sunless Lotion

The last, but certainly not the least, is the Golden Star Beauty tan lotion!

I’d even say this one is the most underrated of them all.

This lotion contains some of the most luxurious organic oils and other nourishing ingredients, such as:

• Olive oil

• Jojoba oil

• Avocado oil

• Coconut oil

• Argan oil

• Hyaluronic acid

• Aloe vera

This product is here to make you look like the best tanned pregnant lady with healthy skin this summer.

There are no strange smells to this product and it works great with all skin types.

However, this product will not make a huge difference for those who already have a darker complexion.

This product is best for all people who are trying out sunless tanners for the first time, including pregnant ladies.

Are Tanning Lotions Safe During Pregnancy?

Before you make any tanning lotion purchase, talk to your doctor about your options. They can give you the most relevant information that will keep you and your baby safe.

In theory, yes, there are pregnancy safe self tanners but your doctor might tell you to wait until you’re past the first trimester.

According to Sandra Johnson M.D., the ingredients in such products are generally safe and since you apply them to the outside layer of the skin, they can’t harm your baby.

Self tanners contain DHA which is absorbed by the skin. It’s actually a sugar that causes a beautiful bronzing glow on the surface of the skin.

As there’s no evidence that the baby absorbs any DHA through the mother’s skin, these products are generally considered to be safe.

The FDA has only approved DHA for external use but you should also keep in mind that the FDA doesn’t regulate cosmetic products.

But there’s a massive difference between lotion/mousse/gel/towelettes and a spray tan.

Spray tanning is not recommended during pregnancy.

Most of the ingredients are okay for external use, but when the product is sprayed, a woman can inhale particles that might cause some serious health problems.

Why Do Pregnant Women Use Tanning Lotions?

Truth to be told, we all love looking good and tanned during summer, and pregnant ladies are no exception.

Even though too much sun exposure may be harmful to everyone (skin cancer is the number one reason), pregnant women are even more susceptible to the negative consequences.

Overexposure to the sun may cause serious problems during pregnancy, even if you wear sunscreen.

Therefore, pregnant ladies choose tanners as one of the safest ways to get a nice summer body color and it’s much better than getting a sunburn or going tanning.

Wrapping Up

I hope you’ve found at least two options for a perfect pregnant summer body!

The products in this list are ranked by popularity, even though some are truly underrated.

Most of the products are organic or contain naturally derived ingredients and provide users with healthier replacements for traditional products that are full of questionable chemicals.

If your doctor tells you that it’s safe to use tanning products, feel free to go on Amazon and get yourself a nice natural tanner and a mitt to make application easier.

Enjoy this summer and the peaceful walks by the ocean, because next year you’ll have to carry diaper bags and a stroller to the beach!

References:

• U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2020, August 24). “Sunless Tanners & Bronzers”. FDA website.

• Johnson, Sandra, M.D., FAAD. (2017). “Is it safe to use self-tanning lotions or tanning beds during pregnancy?” Baby Center website.

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