Becoming a mum changes everything, your routine, your priorities, your sleep… and sometimes, your selfcare. If you’ve been missing that post holiday glow or simply want to feel a little more you again, a spray tan can make a world of difference.

But if you’re breastfeeding, you might be wondering: is it safe? when’s the best time to tan? and how on earth do you fit it in between feeds?

At Mobile Beauty Co., we work with hundreds of Melbourne mums every year and we’ve become experts at helping you look (and feel) amazing while caring for your little one. Here’s everything you need to know about getting the best, safest and most convenient spray tan while breastfeeding.

Is a Spray Tan Safe While Breastfeeding?

Yes, when done properly, spray tans are generally considered safe while breastfeeding. Our tanning solutions are vegan, cruelty-free, and have a natural DHA base. The DHA works by reacting with only the top layer of skin to create a natural bronzed tone.

That said, your skin can be more sensitive postpartum. We always recommend doing a patch test first, and if you have any concerns, a quick chat with your GP or maternal health nurse never hurts.

For peace of mind, we also make sure your tanning area is well ventilated we usually advise setting up the tan tent in an area like a large living area, a garage or even outside if weather permits!

Another tip is to avoid spray tan directly on to the nipples if you are breast feeding. Even though its safe (once washed off) for your baby to feed we think it’s always better to be extra safe! A great tip is to get a maternity pad, cut it in half and place each half, round side up, over your nipples and the area surrounding. This works well because the tan line wont be high enough to be seen in different outfits however it still protect your little one.

Timing Your Tan Around Feeding

One of the perks of booking a mobile spray tan is that we come to you — meaning you don’t need to juggle car seats, nappy bags, or public change rooms.

Most of our breastfeeding clients like to book their tan:

  • Right after a feed, when youve got a window before needing to feed again (both for breast feeding and bottle feeding to avoid having to prepare and wash bottles and any chance of getting your spray tan wet).
  • When you’ve just put bub down for a nap (just take note the tan machine can be loud so as long as this wont interrupt nap time).
  • In the evening once bub has gone down, we are open until 8pm every weeknight.
  • Whenever you have a partner or support person around who can hold on to bub for 15-20 mins, this is all the time it takes from when your therapist arrives to when they leave!

Tips for the Best Tan (Without the Mess)

A few little tweaks make all the difference:

  • Exfoliate in the days leading up to your tan to remove dry skin and any old product.
  • Avoid heavy moisturisers or deodorant the day of your appointment.
  • Shave or wax the day before your appointment. If you need to shave after your tan it will remove some of the product but if you absolutely have to we recommend using a shaving cream as well as a brand new razor, the sharper the razor, the less tan it will remove.
  • Wear a loose, dark breastfeeding friendly top so you can stay comfy after your tan. Even better you can just hang out in your dressing gown/ robe as you’re already at home!
  • Once your tan is applied (before you have your shower) make sure that any area that will be touching your little ones skin is covered as there will be transfer.

If you’re worried about baby’s skin touching freshly tanned areas, pop on a light robe or long sleeve pjs until your first rinse. This wont affect your tan but will stop transfer.

Aftercare Tips for Breastfeeding Mums

After your tan develops, you can shower as normal (just remember no body wash or moisturiser for your initial shower) just remember to:

  • Moisturise daily to keep your tan glowing longer.
  • Avoid long, hot showers (they can fade your tan faster). Hot water dries your skin and dry skin means your tan could throw more of an “orange” tone as well as coming off faster.
  • Pat dry with your towel after a shower rather than rubbing.
  • When feeding, if your baby tends to rest on your chest or arms, keep a soft cloth or wrap between your skin and theirs for the first 24 hours.

With gentle care, your tan can last up to ten days.

Why Melbourne Mums Love Mobile Beauty Co.

Between feeds, naps and the never ending washing pile, we know the idea of “me time” can feel impossible. That’s why our mobile beauty team brings the salon to your home, all across Melbourne.

Whether you’re after a natural glow before family photos, a confidence boost before an event, or you simply want to feel your best again day to day we make it easy, flexible and mum friendly.

We also offer lash extensions, lash lifts, brow services, facials and massage all designed for low maintenance beauty that helps you wake up looking and feeling ready for the day ahead (even after those 2am feeds).

Ready to Book Your Mum Friendly Spray Tan?

If you’re breastfeeding and want a safe, convenient way to get your glow back book your mobile spray tan with Mobile Beauty Co. today. We’ll bring everything to you, so all you need to do is relax and enjoy a little self care at home.

Serving Melbourne mums in Melbourne’s Northern, Eastern, Bayside and Peninsula areas.

Book your mobile spray tan now →