Can You Use Sunbeds When Pregnant?

Jan 28, 2025

By MEGATAN Jewellery Quarter

Curious about using sunbeds during pregnancy?

It’s a hot topic (pun intended), and while the answer isn’t a hard “no,” it does come with some very important considerations.

Let’s walk through what you need to know to make an informed choice.

Sunbeds and Pregnancy: What to Keep in Mind

1. Your Skin Changes During Pregnancy

Thanks to the hormonal rollercoaster of pregnancy, your skin may become extra sensitive. This means you’re more prone to UV damage, which can increase the risk of long-term issues like skin cancer. While the idea of maintaining that glow is tempting, it’s worth understanding how your body responds to UV exposure during this unique time.

To keep your skin healthy, protective measures—like limiting session times and ensuring you use proper skin care—are essential.

🔗 Learn more about how to tan evenly in a sunbed.

2. Overheating Is a Real Concern

Pregnancy already comes with its fair share of temperature fluctuations, and sunbed sessions can raise your body temperature even more.

Overheating has been linked to adverse pregnancy outcomes, especially in the first trimester, so it’s critical to keep sessions short and your environment well-ventilated.

Taking breaks, staying hydrated, and listening to your body are smart moves to ensure a safe experience.

🔗 For post-session tips, check out our guide to staying hydrated and caring for your skin.

3. The Folic Acid Factor

Did you know UV light can impact folic acid levels in the body?

Folic acid is crucial for your baby’s neural tube development—we’re talking brain and spinal cord here.

While this doesn’t mean you need to avoid sunbeds entirely, it’s a good reason to take proper precautions, like supplementing with folic acid daily and keeping exposure minimal.

🔗 Learn more about proper precautions when tanning.

Can Sunbeds Be Used Safely During Pregnancy?

Yes, with caution.

If you choose to use a sunbed, it’s all about moderation and smart tanning practices.

Keep sessions short to avoid overheating.
Use protective clothing and eyewear to safeguard sensitive areas.
Always check with your healthcare provider to ensure it’s safe for your unique situation.

Safer Alternatives for That Pregnancy Glow

If you’d prefer to play it extra safe, there are plenty of options to keep you looking radiant:

Self-tanning lotions offer an effortless glow without UV exposure.
Spray tans, applied in a well-ventilated space, are a quick and effective option.

🔗 Not sure where to start? Here’s our guide to preparing for a spray tan.

The Bottom Line

While using a sunbed during pregnancy isn’t off-limits, it does require extra care.

Prioritise your health (and your baby’s!) by keeping sessions short, staying hydrated, and choosing alternatives when needed.

When in doubt, chat with your doctor, they’re there to guide you through your pregnancy journey.

🔗 For tips on getting a safe, sun-kissed glow, explore our tanning basics.

Here's the revised version in UK English:

Important Safety Notice

This article is for informational purposes only and should not replace medical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. While sunbeds can be used safely under certain circumstances, pregnancy brings unique health considerations that may require additional precautions.

Health Risks and Liability Disclaimer

Excessive UV exposure from sunbeds is associated with potential risks, including but not limited to skin damage, increased sensitivity, overheating, and depletion of folic acid levels. Prolonged or improper use of sunbeds may contribute to long-term health concerns.

If you are pregnant, consult your doctor, midwife, or healthcare professional before using a sunbed. They can provide personalised advice based on your medical history and the stage of your pregnancy.

By choosing to use a sunbed, you assume full responsibility for any health impacts, and it is strongly advised to take all possible precautions.

Our Commitment to Safety

We strongly encourage the use of protective eyewear, limiting session times, and adhering to safe tanning practices. If you have any questions about how to tan responsibly, please consult with our trained staff or refer to our detailed guides:\ 🔗 Essential Tips for Safe Tanning

1. Are sunbeds safe to use during pregnancy?

Sunbed use during pregnancy is not strictly prohibited, but it does come with potential risks.

Pregnant women may experience increased skin sensitivity due to hormonal changes, which can heighten the risk of skin damage or harmful UV radiation effects.

Additionally, the heat generated during sessions could raise your body temperature, potentially leading to heat exhaustion or heat stroke, especially in the first trimester. Always consult your healthcare provider before using a sunbed during pregnancy.

2. Does UV radiation affect my developing baby?

Although UV radiation does not penetrate deeply enough to reach the fetus directly, it can still impact fetal development indirectly. For instance, prolonged exposure to UV light may deplete folic acid levels, an essential nutrient for preventing neural tube defects like spina bifida in the developing baby. Protecting your well-being with precautionary measures—such as limiting session times and staying hydrated—is key.

3. Can sunbed use increase my risk of developing skin cancer?

Yes, using a sunbed or tanning bed can increase the risk of skin cancer, including melanoma, due to exposure to UV rays. Studies suggest that prolonged UV exposure damages skin cells and accelerates ageing. While many women turn to sunbeds for their natural beauty and a sun-kissed glow, it’s important to prioritise healthy skin by considering safer alternatives like spray tans or broad-spectrum sunscreen.

4. What alternatives to sunbeds are safe during pregnancy?

If you’re looking to maintain a natural glow without the risks of UV exposure, consider alternatives like self-tanning lotions or spray tans. Both options are safe for pregnant individuals when applied correctly in a well-ventilated space. These alternatives avoid the risks associated with tanning booths and UV light, allowing you to achieve a radiant look while prioritising your baby’s well-being.

5. How does increased skin sensitivity during pregnancy affect tanning?

Pregnancy hormones can lead to increased skin sensitivity, making expectant mothers more prone to skin conditions like dark spots or burns during sunbed use or sun exposure. To reduce the risk of skin damage, ensure you use broad-spectrum sunscreen, limit exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, and follow a patient information leaflet provided by tanning salons.

6. Can tanning beds impact vitamin D levels during pregnancy?

Tanning beds do emit UVB rays, which help the body produce vitamin D, but the risks of UV radiation often outweigh the potential benefits. Expectant mothers can safely maintain their vitamin D levels through dietary sources, supplements (with guidance from a healthcare provider), and moderate, natural sun exposure while using protective clothing to avoid heat exhaustion.

7. What are the main safety precautions for using a sunbed while pregnant?

If you decide to use a sunbed during pregnancy, take these precautionary measures:

Limit session times to avoid overheating.
Use protective eyewear and avoid exposing sensitive areas.
Stay hydrated to prevent heat exhaustion.
Consult your healthcare provider to discuss any theoretical concerns related to your unique situation.

By following these steps, you can balance your desire for a tan with your commitment to your growing baby’s health.

Here’s a list of resources for your team to provide further reading on sunbed safety during pregnancy. These links cover tanning best practices, safe alternatives, and precautions to ensure both client safety and salon compliance.