Gradual tan moisturisers- Safe to use?

[Princesspowersparkle]

Hello
Is it safe to use those gradual tan moisturisers like the Johnsons holiday skin etc? I have my parents silver anniversary party next week and my legs and arms are scary white! As there is no chance of a quick sun holiday before then I was thinking about these creams but are the OK to use?
Cheers my dears! X

[incy]

I did actually ask my midwife about this last pregnancy and (after saying I was the first person ever to ask her this) she said couldn't see a problem....

Did use last pregnancy and no ill effects...

A couple of the pregnancy books recommend using self tans as a way of boosting confidence (such as the melanie Sykes, blooming beautiful one).

I know some people may express concern re chemicals but I use moisturisers anyway (which also have various chemicals in).

I think tanning booths and sun beds are considered a no no.

[PurpleLostPrincess]

I've always been a fan of the Johnsons Holiday Skin and thought the very same question to myself this morning when I saw an advert on the TV...

I came to the conclusion that if its made by Johnsons of all companies, I would have thought it would be safe. I'll be using mine soon ready for the summer!

Keen to hear if anybody knows otherwise though...

[incy]

Here is what NHS direct say -

Is it safe to use fake tan during pregnancy? Fake tanning lotions and sprays are a popular and safer alternative to spending time in the sun to get a tan.
The active ingredient in fake tan is Dihydroxyacetone (DHA). It is a non-toxic substance that reacts with cells in the outermost layer of the skin and produces a brown pigment (colour) called melanoidin. The outer skin cells are already dead, and are shed as the skin constantly renews itself. This is why fake tan needs to be regularly re-applied to maintain the colour. The DHA doesn't go beyond the outer layer of skin and therefore isn't absorbed into the body.
Although there are no known dangers of using tanning lotions, they can sometimes cause an allergic reaction. For this reason, it's advisable not to use fake tan during pregnancy, as changes in hormone levels can make the skin more sensitive than normal. If you do use fake tan, always test the product on a small area of skin first to see if you have a reaction.
Although some fake tans contain sun protection, the SPF (sun protection factor) is usually very low. Increased skin sensitivity when pregnant can mean you're more likely to burn, so use a high protection cream (minimum 15) and stay out of the sun as much as possible.
Tanning pills are banned in the UK and should not be used by anyone, including pregnant women. They contain large quantities of beta-carotene or canthaxanthin, which are commonly used as food colourings and can be toxic to an unborn baby. Other side effects may include hepatitis and damage to the retina, the light sensitive tissue at the back of the eye.