HEDI - Sunbathing and Sun Protection

Sunshine does many people good. The heat helps the body relax. Sunlight can improve your mood, and some people find that a tan complexion may improve their well-being. You can still enjoy the sun during pregnancy. However, you should be especially careful to protect your skin. It may be more sensitive to sunlight than you are used to. For example, you may experience slight pigmentation or sunburn. This is due to the pregnancy hormones, and also to the fact that the skin on your stomach and breasts will stretch more and more from week to week. To avoid unpleasant surprises, you should use sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF) and wear long, airy clothes. If you stay outdoors for a long time, you should relax in the shade from time to time. Another reason to be careful is that direct sunlight and heat can lead to circulation problems, especially during pregnancy.

Self-tanning products

Whether or not the use of self-tanning creams or sprays is problematic is a matter of controversy. Officially, the majority of these products are considered harmless. Nevertheless, many doctors advise against the use of self-tanners. Most contain dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a substance used as a tanning agent. It decomposes over time and can gradually release the chemical substance formaldehyde. This is suspected to cause cancer. Many self-tanning products also contain fragrances that can cause allergies.

Solaria and tanning salons

Many doctors advise against visiting the tanning salon or solarium during pregnancy. There is currently no evidence that the very intense UV radiation from a sunbed or tanning bed harms the fetus. What is certain, however, is that the radiation will increase the supply of folic acid in the body. This vitamin is important for the development of a healthy fetus, especially in the first twelve weeks of pregnancy. If you want to go to a solarium or use a self-tanner during pregnancy, you should discuss this with your midwife or doctor. You should make your decision about tanning with the medical professionals who will take care of you during pregnancy.

Sunbathing and Sun Protection

Self-tanning products

Solaria and tanning salons

Your location is missing!