Pregnancy brings many changes, like swollen feet and an increased need to use the bathroom. One change many women don’t see coming? Increased sensitivity to the sun. If you feel like you’re burning more easily during pregnancy, you’re not imagining it. Hormonal changes can make your skin more prone to UV damage, meaning a short time in the sun can lead to a painful burn. Here is what you need to know about having a sunburn during pregnancy.
At Tanner Clinic, our OB-GYN and Dermatology teams are here to help support you through each stage, especially during the summer months when you are more prone to sunburns.
Why are pregnant women more sensitive to the sun?
Your body undergoes dramatic hormonal changes during pregnancy. Increased levels of estrogen and melanin-stimulating hormones can:
Make your skin more prone to burns and irritation
Lead to melasma, also known as the “mask of pregnancy”
Heighten your risk of hyperpigmentation when skin is exposed to sunlight
These changes affect any area of your skin and are at risk if the sun touches the area.
Why Sunburns Are Riskier During Pregnancy
A sunburn might seem like just a short-term nuisance, but during pregnancy, it can pose a greater risk and take longer to heal. Some of the risks include:
Overheating: Pregnant women are more vulnerable to heat-related complications, and a sunburn raises your core temperature.
Dehydration: Burned skin draws moisture from the body, which can make it harder to stay hydrated.
Skin damage and irritation: Sunburn increases skin sensitivity and discomfort, which is already a common pregnancy side effect – making it event more uncomfortable for pregnant women.
In some cases, severe sunburns that lead to fever, nausea, or chills should be evaluated by your doctor. Severe sunburns can include welts or blisters on the skin, fatigue, rashes, swelling, and intense headaches.
What to do if you get a sunburn while pregnant
if you accidentally spend too much time in the sun, AND GET A SUNBURN during pregnancy, THERE ARE SAFE AND SOOTHING TREATMENTS AVAILABLE.
Cool compresses
Aloe Vera or fragrance-free moisturizers
Plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration
Cool (not cold) baths with oatmeal or baking soda
Avoid topical treatments with lidocaine or other numbing agents unless cleared by your doctor. You will also want to avoid using corticosteroids, like cortisone, since they will delay the skin’s healing process.
If you have any concerns or questions about what else is safe to use to treat a sunburn at home, such as over-the-counter pain relief medications, call your doctor.
Pregnancy-Safe Tips for Preventing Sunburn
The best defense is a good offense. Protect your skin with these dermatologist recommendations (great advice for those pregnant or not):
– Wear pregnancy-safe sunscreen: Look for mineral-based SPF 30+ products with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide
– Reapply often: Sunscreen should be reapplied every 2 hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating.
– Dress to protect: Lightweight long-sleeve shirts, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses help your skin. Many outdoor recreation shirts have a built in “UPF” that is shown to be more effective at protecting your skin than sunscreen. You should still wear sunscreen, alongside this added layer of protection.
– Avoid peak sun hours: Stay indoors or in the shade from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., when UV rays are strongest. If you live in Utah, the higher elevation is also a risk factor for UV exposure. Be sure to take extra precaution when venturing outside.
– Stay hydrated: Bring water with you wherever you go to help your body regulate heat. Especially in hotter months, be sure to drink plenty of water and replenish electrolytes if you are spending time outside sweating.
When to Call Tanner Clinic
If your sunburn blisters, leads to a fever, or covers a large area, contact your OB-GYN or Dermatologist. Prolonged overheating or dehydration can affect both you and your baby. Our providers are here to help you manage your sunburn and help heal your skin safely.
Our OB-GYN providers at Tanner Clinic are here to guide you through all aspects of pregnancy, including unexpected skin concerns. If you’re dealing with melasma, acne, rashes, or recurring sunburns, our Dermatology team offers safe, effective solutions tailored for your specific skin care needs. These two teams often work in the same building as each other and can consult quickly to ensure you are receiving the best care.