Pregnancy Forum - Tanning
Medical questions     Health forums     MarketPlace    

Tanning

New Topic  Reply  Ask A Doctor - Offline
Medical Questions-> Health Forums -> Pregnancy -> Tanning
Medical Questions
Author Message
colleenk

New User, Becoming EHEALTHy
Joined: 08 Sep 2006
Posts: 11
Tanning
Posted: 09-08-06 20:06pm

Sorry for my ignorance, but I love to tan. I am 11 weeks pregnant and I have a major event next week im trying to get tan for. I havent read anything bad about tanning, but still wonder. Does anyone know the answer?
|
~*~Jillian~*~

Extremely EHEALTHy
Joined: 01 Feb 2005
Posts: 1759
Location: Tennessee, USA

Posted: 09-08-06 20:11pm

I dont know if there is a right answer for this..But as far as my doctor ..She said no..If you are so worried about tanning ..Why not go get a spray tan..Its only like 30-40 bucks and it stays on for like a week..Its totally worth it and you wont have to put your baby at risk..
|
colleenk

New User, Becoming EHEALTHy
Joined: 08 Sep 2006
Posts: 11

Posted: 09-08-06 20:20pm

I thought about it, but to me they look very fake. Sorry if anyone does it. I have to be in alot of pictures and I really dont want to try something new (and maybe orange). I limit my time in the bed, just wish I knew for sure I guess.
|
AyaMiyaki

Especially EHEALTHy
Joined: 01 Jun 2006
Posts: 8321
Location: Floating on a cloud, United States
Thanks: 180
Thanked:14

Posted: 09-08-06 20:24pm

I personally wouldn't risk it if I were you. The first trimester is the most important as far as development goes, and I would put my baby ahead of my tan. Contact your doctor before tanning again, please.
|
colleenk

New User, Becoming EHEALTHy
Joined: 08 Sep 2006
Posts: 11

Posted: 09-08-06 20:25pm

Indeed. My baby is the most important thing.
|
HcoBrunette06

Especially EHEALTHy
Joined: 06 Dec 2005
Posts: 8005
Location: Missouri, United States
Thanks: 2
Thanked:1

Posted: 09-08-06 20:30pm

Yeah I heard it wasn't good too but I found this link, not sure what to think after reading these answers lol they go back and forth.

Http://www.Pregnancy-info.Net/qa/answers- tanning_while_pregnant/
|
colleenk

New User, Becoming EHEALTHy
Joined: 08 Sep 2006
Posts: 11

Posted: 09-08-06 20:39pm

Thank you for that link. Your right, it does go back and forth alot, but at least I have alot more opinions. I really do hate sounding so vain, but it's true, I do feel slimmer with a tan and im a little self-concious right now because ive put on a few pounds. Its my first baby so I really dont know exactly what to do. Thanx again.
|
HcoBrunette06

Especially EHEALTHy
Joined: 06 Dec 2005
Posts: 8005
Location: Missouri, United States
Thanks: 2
Thanked:1

Posted: 09-08-06 20:41pm

Here I found something else lol its on a website called tanning facts

tanning facts




don't find your question covered below? Just go to our tanning questions page to submit a question to rick mattoon, director of the american tanning institute. Rick will do his best to answer all questions. He will try to return an answer within 72 hours.



Is indoor tanning regulated?

I heard that tanning happens in phases. What are they?

Why does indoor tanning offer more control?

What is a drug-induced photosensitive reaction?

Which medications are most likely to cause photosensitivity?

If a tan and a sunburn are different, just what is a sunburn?

Why won't my tanning salon allow me to tan as long as I want?

Why does my salon always verify I am using tanning eywear?

What would happen if I didn't use eyewear?

Can I tan while I am pregnant?


Is indoor tanning regulated?
Yes. No matter what state, county or town you may tan in, your indoor tanning facility is subject to the far-reaching effects of the food and drug administration (fda), the federal trade commission, and in most cases, state or local regulatory authorities. At the highest level of regulations, the fda is directed by law to maintain inspection and testing procedures and to publicize standards that will reduce unnecessary overexposure to tanning equipment and other medical and electronic devices.
Back to top


i heard that tanning happens in phases. What are they?
Tanning is the natural response of the skin to ultraviolet light exposure. There are two types of tanning which occur. The first is known as immediate pigment darkening which occurs during ultraviolet exposure and increases until exposure ends. It occurs in response to both uva and certain visible wavelengths. No melanin production is involved. This response depends on various factors including previous exposure and skin pigmentation type. Darker skin will produce a more pronounced effect. The second type is called delayed tanning. Delayed tanning occurs 48 -72 hours after exposure and increases for 7 - 10 days. Duration depends on various factors including repeat exposure and may last for several weeks or months. This result is due in part to an increase in the size of melanin containing cells (melanocytes) in the skin and the increase in melanosomes within these cells. Many studies show that this may serve to protect the skin from uva and uvb damage due to overexposure. Both of these bands will produce delayed tanning, however, much less uvb is required to produce the effect.
Back to top


why does indoor tanning offer more control?
Indoor tanners are at a great advantage by having access to the control that goes into the indoor tanning process. In addition to various state and local regulations in place, national guidelines set by the federal government enhance the controllable factors involved in indoor tanning. Since 1986, the performance standards for sunlamp products have been in place to cover many of the following aspects of indoor tanning: -timer control -protective eyewear -temperature control -electrical safety -protection from lamps -equipment access and support, and more.
Back to top


what is a drug-induced photosensitive reaction?
A drug-induced photosensitive reaction most commonly appears as an exaggerated sunburn. It occurs when a person takes certain medications or applies, either intentionally or unintentionally, offending substances to the skin and is exposed to ultraviolet radiation. A photosensitive reaction should be considered in people experiencing sunburn of greater severity than would normally be expected for them, or who develop rashes in areas exposed to the sun or tanning unit. The pharmacist is in a unique position to counsel tanning consumers on both prescription and non-prescription medications, herbal and other "natural" products and perhaps even cosmetics, shampoos and similar purchases that may make people sensitive to ultraviolet light.
Back to top


which medications are most likely to cause photosensitivity?
Many medications and some herbal and other "natural" products have been reported to cause photosensitive reactions. In addition to topically-applied medications, cosmetics, foods and other chemicals may also produce photosensitive reactions, as may agents unintentionally applied to the skin (by handling plants, exposure to airborne allergens or wearing certain types of jewelry or leather). Some ingredients in cosmetics, perfumes, colognes, after-shaves, soaps, deodorants, lotions, shampoos, hair sprays, hair dyes, contact lens solutions and even sunscreens may also cause reactions. As mentioned earlier, the pharmacist is in the best position to counsel tanning consumers on both prescription and non-prescription medications, herbal and other "natural" products and perhaps even cosmetics, shampoos and similar purchases that may make people sensitive to ultraviolet light.
Back to top


if a tan and a sunburn are different, just what is a sunburn?
Sunburns occur when the skin is exposed to excessive amounts of uv light. The severity can vary from mild pink with only minor discomfort to severe "lobster-red" burns that blister.Sunburn results when the amount of exposure to the sun or other ultraviolet light source exceeds the ability of the body's protective pigment, melanin, to protect the skin. A serious sunburn is as serious as a thermal burn, and may have the same systemic effects such as blistering, edema and fever.A sunburn is better prevented than treated. When outdoors for an extended amount of time, you should use a sunscreen.
Back to top


why won't my tanning salon allow me to tan as long as I want?
With the risks involved in individuals who overexpose themselves to uv light, it is the responsibility of the tanning salon owner and operator to eliminate the opportunity for consumers to sunburn while visiting an indoor tanning salon. It is also the responsibility of the tanning professional to make sure individuals who cannot biologically acquire a tan (skin type 1) do not tan indoors. The promotion of moderate, sensible and responsible exposure to ultraviolet light is the goal of a professional tanning salon.
Back to top


why does my salon always verify I am using tanning eywear?
Indoor tanning salon owners and operators are obligated to verify every client using tanning equipment is using federally compliant eyewear. It is there goal to educate customers about the fact that towels, scarves or eyelids do not adequately protect eyes from ultraviolet exposure. In addition to possible state laws, federal regulations (cfr 21 1040.20 (c)(4) require that tanners wear protective eyewear that block 99.9% of the uvb light and 99% of uva. It is the operator's responsibility that all tanning clients use federally compliant eyewear. Acceptable eyewear must state the product's compliance with federal regulations on the package.
Back to top


what would happen if I didn't use eyewear?
When proper eyewear is not used during the tanning process, the potential for eye injury is greatly increased. Some eye injuries and disorders include photokeratitis (cornea sunburn), cataracts, pterygium (abnormal tissue growth) and damage to the cornea.
Back to top


can I tan while I am pregnant?
Working with your doctor on this topic is a wise choice. Every pregnancy has it's own considerations so it is always suggested you get input from your doctor when considering tanning while pregnant. At this time there are no studies on the effects of tanning beds on the unborn child, so anything you hear is nothing but myths. Because the uv light used in tanning beds do not reach the child, your baby is not at risk. During the first trimester your doctor will most likely advise you not to do anything that will raise your body's temperature, such as hot tubs, saunas, and tanning beds. However, after the first trimester, it may be okay to have moderate sessions while using a tanning bed or booth. The most important thing to remember is to stay cool and drink plenty of fluids. Your skin during pregnancy is also sensitive to burning, so you should start with short sessions until your body is tanned.
|
Fairy Godmother

Supporter
Joined: 11 Oct 2003
Posts: 1486
Location: , Georgia USA
Thanks: 80
Thanked:110
Tanning Beds/human Microwave!
Posted: 09-08-06 21:02pm

For years I thought I had to have that "sunbronzed glow..........Lived in a damned tanning bed when I wasn't in the sun. Malignant melanoma put a fast stop to that. As for being pregnant and getting onto the bed (why not stick your head into a microwave and set the timer for about 4 minutes? Microwaves literally cook things from the inside out. Tanning beds virtually do the exact same thing. Too much controversary... I myself use jergens tanning lotion, and if applied correctly, evernly and then smoothed with regular lotion to endure even coverage, I have no orange spots or missed spots. You may need to reapply a couple of times but at least this won't hurt you or the baby. Wash hands very well after applying! Why are people so absorbed with the way they look? Its how you treat people on this earth that matters.........Not that you have that nice tan, or dress in the finest things,,,, you are blessed with an angel inside of you. Please reconsider, think of this miracle chile having to lie inside this device, only because you want to look good to impress someone. You do not ever have to impress anyone...If someone can not accept you for who you are, they aren't worth your time! God did not make junk.....You are just fine the way you are! :d
|
Sophie585

Experienced User , Rather EHEALTHy
Joined: 19 Jun 2006
Posts: 141
Location: Canada

Posted: 09-09-06 22:44pm

I used to tan before I got pregnant, but when I found out I was I decided to stop.... I'm 12 weeks along now. This is my first pregnancy too, and I just don't want to take unnecessary chances. And my boyfriend is pretty protective of me too....He watches what I eat (which was usually junk like fries and kraft dinner :p)...Now he comes with me to the grocery store and picks out healthier things...Which is kinda cute, but annoying at the same time because I love kd. And he doesn't smoke around me, and doesn't let anyone else either. Which I think is only right, since I can't smoke, and second hand smoke is just as bad. Whatever you decide to do, just make sure you feel ok with it, and you doctor approves it!!! <3
|
Cha-Cha

Experienced User , Rather EHEALTHy
Joined: 30 May 2006
Posts: 151

Posted: 09-09-06 23:16pm

I dont think it is a good idea to tan because of the uv rays.... I mean it can give you cancer and wrinkles early and make your face look like leathery.... I wouldnt even risk it. Ive done spray tans in the past and they have made me tan!

But, if you are stil going to, I would call your doctor and ask them what they think

but for the health of you I wouldnt tan just because its really bad for you and it will make you a lot older looking when you are only like 35... I mean its not worth it.

Xoxo
rachel
|
Cha-Cha

Experienced User , Rather EHEALTHy
Joined: 30 May 2006
Posts: 151

Posted: 09-09-06 23:19pm

Oh btw, im really light!!!! Im polish german and mediteranian... And uh.. I go out in the sun very little and I always where sun block because when im 45 I wanna look 35!!!!!

So think about the future!!
|
alanna

Experienced User , Rather EHEALTHy
Joined: 13 Feb 2006
Posts: 100
Location: Norfolk, VA USA

Posted: 09-09-06 23:28pm

Even though medically there isn't really any proof that tanning is bad during pregnancy, it is bad to do in general.

Skin cancer is sooo preventable, and tanning just ups your chances.

But you have to realize that it's not just you anymore, you have a whole other life to think about. Who cares if you are a little pale...As long as you are healthy.

But this all coming from someone who's dad had skin cancer. So i'm a bit picky about it.
|
Related Topics
This Forum This Category All Forums
Jump to:  
New Topic   Reply
Medical Questions -> Health Forums -> Pregnancy -> Tanning



We comply with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health
information:
verify here.