Is Tanning beds and sunlamps safe during pregnancy?
Not recommended for anyone, and pregnancy skin burns and darkens more easily. Sunless tanning lotion is the usual swap.
What the sources say
FDA says there is no such thing as a safe tan and that tanning greatly increases skin cancer risk and can damage eyes. NHS notes advice that people should not use sunbeds or sunlamps. An NHS GP page adds that pregnant skin is more sensitive and prone to burning and dark patches (chloasma), prolonged UV can cause overheating, and some studies suggest UV may break down folic acid; there's no clear evidence on direct effects on the baby. See the cosmetics entry for sunless tanners (DHA).
Also listed as
indoor tanning, sunbed, sunbeds, sunlamp, tanning bed, tanning beds, tanning booth, tanning salon, uv tanning
Sources
- FDA: The Risks of Tanning
- NHS: Sunscreen and sun safety
- NHS: Are sunbeds safe to use during pregnancy? (Collingwood Surgery, NHS)
Last reviewed . This is general information, not medical advice. Ask your doctor or midwife about your own situation.