Can You Get A Spray Tan While Breastfeeding?

Mar 26

Being a new mom doesn’t mean you have to say goodbye to your glow! If you’re wondering whether you can get a spray tan while breastfeeding, the answer is yes, you absolutely can—with a few precautions to keep both you and your baby safe.

Between adjusting to your little one’s feeding schedule and managing postpartum skin changes, there are a few things to consider before booking your tan. But don’t worry—I’m breaking it all down for you, so you can enjoy a bronzed, confident glow without stress!

Is It Safe to Get a Spray Tan While Breastfeeding?

Let’s start with the big question—will a spray tan affect your breast milk or harm your baby?

The main ingredient in spray tan solutions is Dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a sugar-derived compound that reacts with the outer layer of your skin to create that beautiful, sun-kissed look. According to the FDA, DHA is approved for external use and does not penetrate deep enough to enter your bloodstream—or your breast milk.

So, rest assured: your tan stays on your skin, not in your baby’s next meal!

However, since DHA isn’t meant to be ingested or inhaled, take a few extra safety measures:
✔️ Choose a well-ventilated space for your tan.
✔️ Use nose plugs and eye protection to avoid inhaling excess mist.
✔️ Opt for a mobile spray tan service (like aussie glows!) so you can tan in the comfort of your home with proper airflow.

What About Skin Absorption?

Some studies suggest that a small amount of DHA can be absorbed through the skin, but the levels are considered minimal and unlikely to cause harm. If you’re concerned, opt for spray tan formulas with natural and organic ingredients to reduce any potential risk of irritation.

Important: If you have any medical conditions or concerns, always check with your healthcare provider before using any new skincare products.

Check the Ingredients

As with anything you apply to your skin while nursing, it’s important to check the ingredients in your spray tan solution. While DHA (the active tanning ingredient) is considered safe for external use, you’ll want to be extra mindful of the other ingredients in your spray tan formula as well.

Look for all-natural, organic and hypoallergenic ingredients to reduce the risk of skin reactions or irritation. A high-quality spray tan solution should be free from harsh chemicals, parabens, and synthetic fragrances, which could potentially irritate sensitive postpartum skin. You also want to avoid excessive alcohols that may dry our or irritate your skin more than usual.

Postpartum Skin & Spray Tan Perfection

Your skin is not the same after having a baby—hormones are shifting, and that can affect how your tan develops. Some common changes include:
🔹 Increased skin sensitivity
🔹 Uneven absorption (hello, random dark patches!)
🔹 Dryness or oiliness in new areas

To get the best results, let your spray tan artist know you’re breastfeeding so they can customize your tan:
✔️ Use a pH-balancing prep spray to even out your skin.
✔️ Apply barrier cream to dry areas to prevent uneven development.
✔️ Focus on blending and hydration to ensure a smooth, long-lasting glow.Practical Tips: Timing Your Tan Like a Pro

Now that we know spray tans are safe, let’s talk about the logistics—because, let’s be real, having a baby means your schedule revolves around feeding, sleeping, and diaper changes.

Since most spray tans require a few hours of development time before rinsing, the last thing you want is your baby’s cute little face turning bronze during a feed. 😳

Here’s how to time your tan perfectly:
✔️ Feed your baby right before your appointment so you have a chunk of time before the next feeding.
✔️ Use a rapid tan solution that lets you rinse off in 1-4 hours instead of waiting 8+ hours.
✔️ Book a mobile spray tan so you don’t have to rush to a salon—you can tan at home, feed your baby, and shower on your schedule.
✔️ No washing! Since you can’t get wet while your tan is developing, that means no washing bottles, dishes, or laundry—time to relax and stay dry!

Preventing Tan Transfer to Your Baby

While DHA itself is safe, the bronzer in your spray tan (the temporary color guide) can transfer to your baby during skin-to-skin contact. The best way to avoid this?

🌸 Use nipple covers! – Super cute flower or heart-shaped covers create a barrier so the spray tan doesn’t develop on or around the nipple. Breast pads work too!
🧼 Wipe before feeding – If you didn’t use a cover, simply wipe the area with a damp cloth before nursing.
👕 Think about what you put on after your tan – Throw on a loose, long sleeve, high-neck shirt so your baby doesn’t press against your skin before you rinse.

Glow with Confidence

Spray tanning while breastfeeding is totally safe and doable—it just takes a little planning. By choosing the right timing, ingredients, and protective measures, you can enjoy a flawless tan without any worry.

If you're looking for a luxury mobile spray tan service in Dallas, aussie glows makes it easy to fit a glow-up into your busy mom life.

Book a session, and let’s get you glowing! ✨👶🏽💛

Book Now