Sun-kissed Skin During Pregnancy

We all love it! If you're not feeling attractive during pregnancy, the look of sun-kissed skin may do wonders for your self-esteem. A tan can make appearances of unsightly blemishes seem fewer and give you a healthy looking glow. I am very big on a woman feeling good about herself during her pregnancy BUT not however at the cost of her baby. This article will give you more information on tanning in a bed, outdoors, or with lotions and the effects it can have on you and even your baby.

Tanning Beds: There is some controversy on the subject of tanning salons and their use during pregnancy. Many physicians recommend not using them and are against any activity that raises your body temperature. Lying in a tanning bed can raise your body temperature to a level that may be hazardous to your baby and is associated with spinal malformations, particularly during your first trimester. There has also been an ongoing observation about what may be a connection between neural tube defects and ultraviolet radiation.

As of now, no conclusive evidence shows that tanning beds are harmful to a developing fetus, but there's plenty of proof that they're dangerous to you. Whether you're with child or not, tanning beds definitely put you at risk for premature signs of aging and possible skin cancer. One study suggests that visiting a tanning booth ten times in a year can double your chances of developing melanoma — one of the most deadly types of cancer.

Although you are trying to look better you can actually make things worse. During pregnancy, levels of elaborates hormone are higher in the body, making your skin more prone to burning and chloasma - sometimes known as a pregnancy mask, those dark splotches that can appear on the face and occasionally the arms during pregnancy.

One good thing to know is many municipalities and other local governments have passed laws against tanning while you are with child. While you may or may not agree with them, you should be aware of them. Many tanning salons also will not take clients who are pregnant, for liability reasons.

Outdoors: Many of the concerns about outdoor tanning are the same as tanning beds. As tanning beds, exposure to the sun puts you at risk for premature aging and skin cancer. As skin is much more sensitive to heat during pregnancy, the sun can cause such unpleasant side effects as sun burn, hives, heat rash, and chloasma. Lying in the hot sun for hours can increases your risk of overheating and dehydration - neither of which are good for you or your baby.

Lotions: This may be the best option if you are pregnant. Avoiding UV rays will ensure healthier skin and less chance of skin cancer, burns, hives or chloasma. The only concern is whether the ingredient, dihydroxyacetone (DHA), is able to penetrate the skin. Studies do not confirm that it can, but some health care providers encourage women to wait until after the first trimester, just to play it safe.

There are so many different kinds of sunless tanning lotions, creams, and foams that have very good results. Many have minimal odor and provide immediate color. Even if you have used sunless tanners before, try a patch of skin first since your skin may be more sensitive during pregnancy.

Lastly, you should consult with your physician before tanning, whether it is in a tanning bed or in the sun. Your physician may be able to identify concerns that are specific to you pregnancy. Also, drink plenty of water, use a sunscreen with SPF 30 or more, and wear a hat and shades.