\t\t\t<\/p>\n \t\t\t\t\t\t <\/p>\n \tRelated story \t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n \t\t\t\t\tCool Moms Are Finding Their Go-To Beach Bags at This Unexpected Place This Summer\u2014& They’re All Under $40\t\t<\/p>\n <\/span><\/p><\/div>\n \t\t<\/a><\/p>\n<\/article>\n \t \n\tBest Overall:<\/strong> Tanologist Daily Glow Hydrating Lotion<\/a>, $15 \n\tMany self-tanners are safe to use during pregnancy, but not all. Two factors will determine whether a self-tanner passes the pregnancy test: its packaging and the ingredients on the label. \u201cI do not recommend using any aerosol versions of self-tanners,\u201d says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Rachel Nazarian<\/a> to SheKnows. \u201cStick to the lotions, creams and drops. Aerosolized versions can leave droplets of these ingredients in the air that are irritating and potentially toxic to lung tissue.\u201d<\/p>\n \n\tIt\u2019s important to read the ingredients on the label. The active ingredient in most sunless tanning products that enhances the pigment by dying the surface layer of the skin is dihydroxyacetone, or DHA, which, thankfully, is minimally toxic. \u201cThe concentration of this active ingredient ranges depending on the product,\u201d says Nazarian. \u201cTypically, this ingredient can range from between 1 to 15 percent in self tanners, and thankfully studies have been done that have shown that systemic absorption of this ingredient is minimal. It stains the top layers of skin cells, and doesn\u2019t have significant penetration into deeper layers of skin or [the bloodstream].\u201d<\/p>\n \n\t\u201cWhile there are no studies to prove the safety of DHA in pregnancy, DHA has been used in cosmetics since the 1960s with no reported problems,\u201d confirms Dr.\u00a0Kelly\u00a0Culwell<\/a>, MD, Board Certified OB\/GYN, also known as \u2018Dr.\u00a0Lady\u00a0Doctor.\u2019 \u201cWhen used topically (on the skin), minimal DHA is absorbed and likely even less (if any) could make it through the placenta.\u201d Of course, it\u2019s totally up to you how safe you want to play it: If you\u2019re still uncomfy with the idea of using products with DHA, skip it.<\/p>\n \n\tSo what should you avoid in a pregnancy-safe self-tanner? It\u2019s okay if the product contains DHA, but it is smart to look for plant-based or organic products, because those should have fewer chemical additives \u2014 you should always try to avoid chemicals<\/a> including parabens, phthalates, and formaldehyde during pregnancy to cut back on your risk of birth defects or preterm birth. Just make sure the label says \u201cparaben-free\u201d or \u201cpregnancy-safe\u201d before you buy a self-tanner. And the shorter the list of ingredients, the better!<\/p>\n \n\t\u201cOther ingredients to avoid in pregnancy include formaldehyde and oxybenzone, which either don\u2019t have enough information to prove that they\u2019re safe, or have some evidence to suggest they are harmful during pregnancy (hormone disrupters),\u201d says Dr. Nazarian.<\/p>\n \n\tTaking all of that into consideration, you\u2019re left with plenty of options for sunless tanners that are pregnancy-safe: Some lather on like a lotion, while others can be applied in a thicker foam or drops on the skin. Remember to exfoliate and moisturize before using any self-tanner to ensure even coverage.<\/p>\n \n\tCheck out our top picks below. Happy bronzing!<\/p>\n \n\tOur mission at SheKnows is to empower and inspire women, and we only feature products we think you\u2019ll love as much as we do. CVS is a SheKnows sponsor, however, all products in this article were independently selected by our editors. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale.<\/em><\/p>\n \t\t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t<\/a>\n\t<\/div> \n\t\t\t\t\t\tBest oVERALL\n\t<\/p>\n \t\t\t\t\tTanologist Daily Glow Hydrating Lotion\t\t<\/p>\n<\/h3>\n \n\t\tIf you\u2019re pregnant and looking for a sun-kissed glow without spending hours in the sun, the Tanologist Daily Glow Hydrating Lotion<\/a> is a popular option worth considering. The gradual self-tanning moisturizer is designed to build a natural-looking tan over time while simultaneously hydrating the skin, making it an easy addition to an everyday body-care routine. <\/p>\n Unlike some self-tanners that can feel drying or leave behind streaks, this formula is infused with moisturizing ingredients to help keep skin feeling soft and smooth. It contains hydrating ingredients such as glycerin and skin-conditioning squalane, while remaining free from mineral oil, parabens, and other ingredients experts recommend avoiding during pregnancy.<\/p>\n Product type: <\/strong>Lotion Pros: \t\t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t<\/a>\n\t<\/div> \n\t\t\t\t\t\tBest Runner Up\n\t<\/p>\n \t\t\t\t\tIsle of Paradise Self-Tanning Drops\t\t<\/p>\n<\/h3>\n \n\t\tIf the thought of applying a traditional self-tanner feels intimidating, the Isle of Paradise Self-Tanning Drops<\/a> offer a more customizable approach. Designed to be mixed directly into your favorite moisturizer, serum, or body lotion, the drops let you control the depth of your glow by simply adjusting the number of drops you use. The result is a natural-looking tan that develops gradually and can be tailored to your desired level of color. Beyond the tanning benefits, the formula is infused with skin-loving ingredients such as avocado, chia seed, and coconut oils to nourish and hydrate the skin.<\/p>\n Product type: <\/strong>Drops Pros:<\/strong> \t\t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t<\/a>\n\t<\/div> \n\t\t\t\t\t\tMost Popular\n\t<\/p>\n \t\t\t\t\tLux Unfiltered\u00a0N\u00b032 Hydrating Gradual Self Tanning Lotion\t\t<\/p>\n<\/h3>\n \n\t\tLux Unfiltered<\/a> was co-founded by Sivan Ayla<\/a>, a mother of two. The self-tanner produces the most natural and bronze tan I\u2019ve ever used! I love that it\u2019s so simple to use, whether you\u2019re pregnant or not. If you are an expecting mama, always check with your doctor before introducing new products, but the formula is gentle and not packed with harmful ingredients. Instead, there is shea butter, avocado oil, and squalane to hydrate and support the skin\u2019s moisture barrier. The gradual self-tanner also includes a light scene that\u2019s floral and earthy. It boasts notes of rose water, palmarosa, cedar, and fresh vanilla.<\/p>\n Product type:\u00a0<\/strong>Lotion Pros:<\/strong> \t\t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t<\/a>\n\t<\/div> \n\t\t\t\t\t\tBest Foam\n\t<\/p>\n \t\t\t\t\tb.tan Love At First Tan\t\t<\/p>\n<\/h3>\n \n\t\tAmazon\u2019s number-one best-selling self-tanner is this 100 percent vegan formulation, cutely called Love at First Tan<\/a>. It\u2019s suitable for all skin types and develops into a medium-to-dark tan with no orange tones. It\u2019s even cruelty-free. For best results, let this tanner soak in for four hours or more. \u201d\u00a0I started using it when I was\u00a0pregnant\u00a0and never stopped. It spreads easily. Color develops right away and it looks like a real tan. I get a lot of compliments with this brand,\u201d wrote a fan.<\/a><\/p>\n Product type: <\/strong>Foam Pros:<\/strong> \t\t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t<\/a>\n\t<\/div> \n\t\t\t\t\t\tBest Mousse\n\t<\/p>\n \t\t\t\t\tJergens Natural Glow Instant Sun Sunless Tanning Moisturizer + Bronzer\t\t<\/p>\n<\/h3>\n \n\t\tThis Jergens self-tanner<\/a> is infused with all-natural emollients like vitamin E and coconut oil to nourish your skin as it bronzes it. And instead of smelling like chemicals, it smells like the beach. \u201cFav tanning lotion ever. Goes on like lotion, smells good, has a beautiful dark color and stays for a couple days,\u201d one shopper wrote.<\/p>\n Product type: <\/strong>Mousse Pros:<\/strong> \t\t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t<\/a>\n\t<\/div> \n\t\t\t\t\t\tBest Body Lotion\n\t<\/p>\n \t\t\t\t\tAlba Botanica Sunless Tanner\t\t<\/p>\n<\/h3>\n \n\t\tThis self-tanner<\/a> is \u201cpowered by botanicals,\u201d so you know it\u2019s pregnancy-safe. As you\u2019d expect, it has no parabens, phthalates, or synthetic fragrances \u2014 just plant-derived ingredients designed to infuse your skin with moisture and hydration while making you look like you baked in the sun. Apply this one for three hours for the best results. One shopper called it \u201cthe best self-tanner I have EVER used, including when I got professional spray tans.\u201d<\/p>\n Product type:<\/strong> Lotion Pros: \t\t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t<\/a>\n\t<\/div> \n\t\t\t\t\t\tBest for a Dark Tan\n\t<\/p>\n \t\t\t\t\tBeauty By Earth Self Tanner Lotion \t\t<\/p>\n<\/h3>\n \n\t\tBeauty By Earth<\/a> notes right on the packaging that this self-tanner is pregnancy safe, vegan, and suitable for sensitive skin. It is also great for getting even coverage for stretch marks, if there are any that you choose to cover up, and is made with plant-based ingredients, so you don\u2019t have to worry. <\/p>\n Product type:<\/strong> Lotion Pros:<\/strong> \t\t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t<\/a>\n\t<\/div> \n\t\t\t\t\t\tBest Serum\n\t<\/p>\n \t\t\t\t\tWhind Marrakech Sun Instant Glow Tanning Water\t\t<\/p>\n<\/h3>\n \n\t\tLike the idea of tanning drops better to get a more gradual tan? Whind\u2019s \u201ctinting water\u201d<\/a> contains hyaluronic acid to hydrate the skin while you get that glow. It\u2019s made from erythrulose, a plant-based DHA alternative that produces color on the skin by reacting to skin proteins. Note: You may need to apply a few layers to match or deepen your skin tone. <\/p>\n Product type: <\/strong>Serum Pros:<\/strong> \t\t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t<\/a>\n\t<\/div> \n\t\t\t\t\t\tBest Face Moisturizer\n\t<\/p>\n \t\t\t\t\tCoola Organic Sunless Tan Anti-Aging Daily Moisturizer\t\t<\/p>\n<\/h3>\n \n\t\tIf you like products that do double duty, this is the one for you. A daily moisturizer and sunless tanner in one, Coola Organic\u2019s self-tanner<\/a> has built-in anti-aging properties. It\u2019s completely clean and organic, and even uses DHA derived from beets. <\/p>\n Key ingredients: Pros: \t\t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t<\/a>\n\t<\/div> \n\t\t\t\t\t\tBest Towelette\n\t<\/p>\n \t\t\t\t\tTan Towel Self Tan Towelette\t\t<\/p>\n<\/h3>\n <\/p>\n \t$25 <\/p>\n \t$29 <\/p>\n \t14% off <\/p>\n \t$30 <\/p>\n \t$35 <\/p>\n \t14% off \n\t\tTan Towel self-tan towelettes<\/a> let you self-tan on the go. Each individually wrapped wipe is infused with paraben-free, dye-free liquid that takes two to four hours to show up and lasts a full week. Best of all, Tan Towel exfoliates, moisturizes, and tans your skin all at once, so pop one or two of these in your purse, and no one will know you spent all day under your umbrella at the beach!<\/p>\n Product type: <\/strong>Towelette Pros:<\/strong> \t\t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t<\/a>\n\t<\/div> \n\t\t\t\t\t\tBest Skin-Tone Corrector\n\t<\/p>\n \t\t\t\t\tSt. Tropez Tan Tonic Glow Drops\t\t<\/p>\n<\/h3>\n \n\t\tIf you\u2019re looking for an exclusive face bronzer, then look to this potent\u00a0self-tanning serum<\/a> by St. Tropez. The vegan formula gently but powerfully tans your skin while nourishing ingredients keep your complexion hydrated and happy. It even contains niacinamide, which helps even your skin tone and your overall glow.<\/p>\n Product type: <\/strong>Serum![\"Cool](\"https:\/\/www.sheknows.com\/wp-content\/themes\/vip\/pmc-sheknows-2020\/assets\/public\/lazyload-fallback.gif\")
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\n<\/span><\/p>\n
\n<\/section>\n<\/p>\n\n\t\tBest (and Safest) Self Tanners for Pregnancy, at a Glance\t<\/h2>\n
Best Runner Up:<\/strong> Isle of Paradise Self-Tanning Drops<\/a>, $22 (originally $30)
Most Popular:<\/strong> Lux Unfiltered N\u00b032 Hydrating Gradual Self Tanning Lotion<\/a>, $38
Best Foam:<\/strong> b.tan Love at First Tan<\/a>, $12
Best Mousse: <\/strong>Jergens Natural Glow Instant Sun Sunless Tanning Moisturizer + Bronzer<\/a>, $12 (originally $13)
Best Body Lotion:<\/strong> Alba Botanica Sunless Tanner<\/a>, $17
Best for a Dark Tan:<\/strong> Beauty By Earth Self Tanner Tanning Lotion<\/a>, $36
Best Serum:<\/strong> Whind Marrakech Sun Instant Glow Tanning Water<\/a>, $35
Best Face Moisturizer:<\/strong> Coola Organic Sunless Tan Anti-Aging Daily Moisturizer<\/a>, $48
Best Towelette: <\/strong>Tan Towel Self Tan Towelette<\/a>, $30 (originally $35)<\/p>\n\n\t\tIs Self-Tanner Safe During Pregnancy?<\/span>\t<\/h2>\n
\n\t\tWhat Ingredients to Avoid in Self-Tanner When Pregnant, According to Experts\t<\/h2>\n
![\"15](\"https:\/\/www.sheknows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Tanologist-Daily-Glow-Hydrating-Lotion.png?w=1024\")
<\/p><\/div>\n\n
Key ingredients:<\/strong>
Hyaluronic acid
Squalane
Beta glucan
Fragrance: <\/strong>Soft summer scent<\/p>\n
<\/strong>Includes hydrating ingredients
Beginner-friendly
Doubles as a body lotion
Cons:
<\/strong>Results aren\u2019t instant
May not show up as quickly on deeper skin tones\t<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n![\"15](\"https:\/\/www.sheknows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Isle-of-Paradise-Self-Tanning-Drops.png?w=1024\")
<\/p><\/div>\n\n
Key ingredients:<\/strong>
Niacinamide
Hyaluronic acid
DHA
Fragrance: <\/strong>Yes<\/p>\n
Mixes into your existing moisturizer
Available in multiple shade levels (Light, Medium, Dark)
Customizable color
Cons:<\/strong>
Contains fragrance
Color can be inconsistent if not mixed thoroughly<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n![\"15](\"https:\/\/www.sheknows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Lux-Unfiltered-N%C2%B032-Hydrating-Gradual-Self-Tanning-Lotion.png?w=1024\")
<\/p><\/div>\n\n
Key ingredients:<\/strong>
Shea butter
Avocado oil
Squalane
Fragrance:\u00a0<\/strong>Rose water, palmarosa, cedar, and fresh vanilla<\/p>\n
Developed by a mom
Easy to apply
Natural finish
Vegan
Cons:<\/strong>
Lightly scented
Some say it\u2019s hard to remove<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n![\"15](\"https:\/\/www.sheknows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/b.tan-Love-At-First-Tan.png?w=1024\")
<\/p><\/div>\n\n
Key ingredients: <\/strong>Water
Fragrance: <\/strong>None<\/p>\n
Vegan
Cruelty-free
No fake tan smell
Doesn\u2019t streak
Produces a dark tan
Cons:<\/strong>
Some say it fades quickly
Some did not feel the tan was dark enough
Some say it has a weird smell\t<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n![\"15](\"https:\/\/www.sheknows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Jergens-Natural-Glow-Instant-Sun-Sunless-Tanning-Moisturizer-Bronzer.png?w=1024\")
<\/p><\/div>\n\n
Key ingredients: <\/strong>
Water
Vitamin E
Coconut oil
DHA
Fragrance:<\/strong> Coconut<\/p>\n
Paraben-free
Cruelty-free
No streaking
Not sticky
Cons:<\/strong>
Some say it has too much of an orange hue
Some don\u2019t like the smell\t<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n![\"15](\"https:\/\/www.sheknows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Alba-Botanica-Sunless-Tanner.png?w=1024\")
<\/p><\/div>\n\n
Key ingredients:<\/strong>
Shea butter
Sweet almond oil
Safflower oil
DHA
Fragrance:<\/strong> Tropical<\/p>\n
<\/strong>Plant-based
Paraben-, sulfate- and phthalate-free
Synthetic fragrance-free
Cruelty-free
Dye-free
Cons<\/strong>:
Some say they didn\u2019t tan deeply enough
Some say it doesn\u2019t last long enough<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n![\"15](\"https:\/\/www.sheknows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Beauty-By-Earth-Self-Tanner-Lotion-.png?w=1024\")
<\/p><\/div>\n\n
Key ingredients:<\/strong>
DHA
Shea butter
Witch Hazel
Coconut oil
Aloe
Fragrance: <\/strong>Coconut<\/p>\n
Vegan
Hydrating and moisturizing
Gentle on sensitive skin
Pleasant smell
No orange tone
Cons:<\/strong>
Some say the smell is too strong
Some say it\u2019s too dark for fair skin<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n![\"15](\"https:\/\/www.sheknows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Whind-Marrakech-Sun-Instant-Glow-Tanning-Water.png?w=1024\")
<\/p><\/div>\n\n
Key ingredients:<\/strong>
Erythrulose (alternative to DHA)
Hyaluronic Acid
Glycerin
Fragrance:<\/strong> Sweet<\/p>\n
Lightweight
Buildable
Vegan
Cruelty-free
Cons:<\/strong>
Pricey
Some say the glow doesn\u2019t last long<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n![\"15](\"https:\/\/www.sheknows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Coola-Organic-Sunless-Tan-Anti-Aging-Daily-Moisturizer.png?w=1024\")
<\/p><\/div>\n\n
<\/strong>DHA
Hyaluronic Acid
Squalane
Aloe Vera
Green Tea Extract
Fragrance: <\/strong>Pina colada<\/p>\n
<\/strong>Vegan and clean
Cruelty-free
Reef-safe
Deeply moisturizing
Multi-tasking
Anti-aging
Sustainable packaging
Cons:
<\/strong>Pricey
Some say it made them break out
Some did not like the smell\t<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n![\"15](\"https:\/\/www.sheknows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Tan-Towel-Self-Tan-Towelette.png?w=1024\")
<\/p><\/div>\n\n
\n<\/span><\/p>\n
\n<\/span><\/p>\n
\n<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n
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\n<\/span><\/p>\n
\n<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n
Key ingredients:
<\/strong>Water
DHA
Aloe Vera
Pro-Vitamin B5
Pentavitin
Fragrance:<\/strong> Citrus<\/p>\n
Paraben-free
Dye-free
Streak-free
Fast-acting
Portable
Moisturizes and exfoliates
Cons:<\/strong>
Some don\u2019t like the smell
Some find towelettes hard to apply
Some say it does streak<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n![\"15](\"https:\/\/www.sheknows.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/St.-Tropez-Tan-Tonic-Glow-Drops.png?w=1024\")
<\/p><\/div>\n\n
Key ingredients: