Sunburn During Pregnancy: How to Treat and Avoid
Pregnancy is a time of transformation—physically, emotionally, and even in how your skin reacts to the sun. Many expectant mothers find that their skin is more sensitive to UV rays, making sunburn not only uncomfortable but potentially harmful. Understanding the implications of prenatal sunburn and adopting effective sun safety measures is crucial for the health of both mother and unborn baby.
What is Prenatal Sunburn?
Prenatal sunburn refers to sunburn experienced during pregnancy. Due to hormonal changes, pregnant women may notice skin changes, including heightened sensitivity to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This increased sensitivity can lead to a higher risk of sunburn, even with limited sun exposure. Additionally, excessive sun exposure can exacerbate conditions like melasma, commonly known as the “mask of pregnancy,” characterized by dark patches on the skin.
Beyond skin damage, severe sunburn can elevate body temperature, leading to potential complications such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Elevated body temperatures during pregnancy have been associated with risks to the developing fetus, including neural tube defects. Therefore, a pregnant woman must prioritize sun protection.
Best Pregnancy-Safe Sunscreen Products
Since excessive sun exposure can lead to skin damage and potential health risks during pregnancy, using the right sunscreen is one of the most effective ways to protect both you and your unborn baby. However, not all sunscreen products are created equal—some contain chemicals that may not be safe during pregnancy. Choosing a mineral-based sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide ensures broad-spectrum protection against harmful UV rays while minimizing potential risks. These ingredients create a physical barrier on the skin, reflecting UV radiation instead of absorbing it.
For more detailed information on sunscreen safety during pregnancy, you can use our pregnancy-safe ingredient checker to scan the ingredient list of your beauty product.
Here are some highly-rated pregnancy-safe sunscreen products available on Amazon:
- Kora Organics Sun Drops SPF 30 ($56)- A lightweight, organic sunscreen serum packed with antioxidants like noni extract and sea buckthorn to nourish and protect sensitive skin.
- Sun Bum Mineral SPF 30 Face Sunscreen with Vitamin E ($20,49)- A gentle, reef-safe formula that provides broad-spectrum protection while keeping skin hydrated with vitamin E.
- EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen SPF 46 Oil Free ($44)- Dermatologist-recommended for sensitive and acne-prone skin, this sunscreen is lightweight, non-comedogenic, and enriched with niacinamide to calm redness.
- Drunk Elephand Tinted Daily Moisturizer SPF 30 ($36)- A 2-in-1 tinted moisturizer and mineral sunscreen that evens out skin tone while providing sun protection with zinc oxide.
- Thinkkids Body Sunscreen SPF 50+ ($16.45)- Formulated for delicate skin, this high-SPF mineral sunscreen is water-resistant and free from harsh chemicals, making it ideal for expecting moms and little ones alike.
- Badger Body Sunscreen SPF 50 Water Resistant ($16.99)- A simple, organic formula with only a handful of ingredients, offering high SPF protection and water resistance for extended outdoor activities.
It’s important to avoid chemical sunscreen ingredients such as oxybenzone, avobenzone, and octinoxate during pregnancy. These chemicals have been shown to penetrate the skin and may potentially affect hormone levels, and increase the risk of birth defects. For more information on the specific ingredients to avoid you can read our previous blogpost on Chemical Sunscreen Pregnancy.
Taking Precautions During Pregnancy to Avoid Sunburn
Preventing sunburn during pregnancy involves a combination of lifestyle adjustments and protective measures. Here are some essential sun safety tips for expectant mothers:
1. Avoid Peak Sun Hours
The sun’s rays are most intense between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Limiting direct sunlight and outdoor activities during these peak hours can significantly reduce the risk of sunburn. If you need to be outside, seek shade whenever possible.
2. Wear Protective Clothing
Clothing serves as the first line of defense against harmful UV rays. Opt for long sleeves, long pants, and a wide-brimmed hat to shield your skin. Fabrics with a tight weave offer better protection. Some brands also offer clothing with built-in UV protection, which can be beneficial for added safety.
3. Use Pregnancy-Safe Sunscreen
Selecting the right sunscreen is vital. Mineral-based (physical) sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are often recommended during pregnancy, as they sit on the skin’s surface and reflect UV rays. These ingredients are generally recognized as safe for both mother and baby. Conversely, some chemical sunscreens contain ingredients like oxybenzone, which may pose potential risks during pregnancy. It’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider to choose a suitable sunscreen.
4. Stay Hydrated
Sun exposure can lead to fluid loss through sweating, increasing the risk of dehydration. Pregnant women are particularly susceptible to dehydration, which can have adverse effects on both mother and fetus. It is advisable to drink plenty of water throughout the day as this helps maintain optimal hydration levels.
5. Avoid Tanning Beds
Tanning beds emit concentrated UV radiation, which can increase the risk of skin damage and skin cancer. Additionally, the elevated temperatures in tanning beds can raise body temperature, posing potential risks during pregnancy. It’s best to avoid tanning beds entirely during this period.
Protecting your skin from UV exposure during pregnancy is essential for maintaining overall health and preventing complications. While some sun exposure is beneficial for vitamin D production, excessive UV exposure can increase the risk of sunburn and other skin conditions. Taking preventive measures, such as wearing protective clothing, using pregnancy-safe sunscreen, and staying hydrated, is a good idea to minimize risks. Additionally, if you have a medical condition that affects your skin’s sensitivity to the sun, consult your healthcare provider for personalized sun safety recommendations. By prioritizing sun protection, you can enjoy a healthy pregnancy while keeping your skin safe.
How to Treat Prenatal Sunburn
Even with the best sun safety precautions, expectant mothers can still experience mild sunburn or, in more serious cases, severe sunburn. Since pregnant women are more vulnerable to UV radiation due to hormonal changes, it’s important to treat sun damage carefully to avoid potential risks to both the mother and developing fetus.
1. Cool the Skin to Reduce Inflammation
Immediately after noticing a sunburn, lower your body temperature by taking a cool shower or applying cool water compresses to the affected area. A lukewarm bath with oatmeal can also soothe skin changes caused by excessive sun exposure. Avoid using hot water, as it can worsen irritation and dryness.
2. Hydrate to Replenish Fluid Loss
UV exposure can lead to fluid loss, increasing the risk of heat exhaustion or heat stroke—both of which are dangerous during pregnancy. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help regulate body temperature and prevent dehydration. If you experience high fevers or dizziness, seek medical attention immediately.
3. Moisturize with Pregnancy-Safe Skin Products
After cooling the skin, apply aloe vera or a pregnancy-safe lotion containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to protect the affected area. Avoid skin products with harsh ingredients like retinoids or salicylic acid, as these can be harmful to the unborn baby. Petroleum-based products should also be avoided, as they trap heat and can make the risk of sunburn worse.
4. Protect the Skin from Further Damage
While healing, minimize further UV exposure by staying out of direct sunlight, especially during peak hours (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.). If you need to go outside, wear protective clothing such as long sleeves, lightweight fabrics, and a wide-brimmed hat to shield your skin from harmful UV rays. Using sunscreen products with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide is also a good idea to prevent premature aging and dark patches associated with the mask of pregnancy.
5. Know When to Seek Medical Advice
If you develop serious sunburn with symptoms like blisters, sun poisoning, chills, nausea, or persistent pain, contact your healthcare provider. Severe sunburn can weaken the immune system, increase the risk of birth defects, and, in rare cases, affect fetal development. Getting medical advice early can help manage symptoms and ensure the safety of both the pregnant woman and the developing fetus.
By prioritizing sun protection and knowing how to properly treat sunburn, expectant mothers can enjoy the sun safely while minimizing the risks of sun damage and UV exposure during pregnancy. If you’re unsure about which sunscreen products are safest for you, use the Little Bean App to scan ingredients and make an informed choice.
Conclusion: Final Thoughts on Sun Safety During Pregnancy
Protecting your skin from the sun’s rays during pregnancy is more than avoiding short-term discomfort—but rather ensuring long-term health for both you and your unborn baby. By prioritizing sun safety through protective clothing, hydration, and pregnancy-safe sunscreen, expectant mothers can minimize the risk of sunburn, premature aging, and other skin changes.
While moderate sun exposure is beneficial for vitamin D production, excessive UV exposure can lead to serious sunburn, fluid loss, and potential complications. If sunburn does occur, acting quickly with cooling treatments, hydration, and gentle skincare can help speed up healing. And if symptoms become severe, seeking medical attention is always a good idea.
By taking proactive steps and making informed choices about sunscreen products and sun exposure, pregnant women can enjoy the sunshine safely and confidently throughout their journey to motherhood.
