Protecting yourself from the sun’s bright rays is especially important during pregnancy, when your skin tends to be more sensitive than usual. Of course, the best form of sun protection is prevention, so whenever possible, try to stay inside or in the shade between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. when the sun is at its strongest. And whenever you're outside, be sure to take some precautions, including applying sunscreen. Here's some advice about choosing the best sunscreen when you’re pregnant.

What kind of sunscreen is safe during pregnancy?

Look for lotions that offer protection against UVA and UVB rays (called broad-spectrum sunscreen) and a sun protection factor (SPF) ideally of 30 or higher. Products in which the active ingredient is zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide — also called mineral or physical sunscreens — are a good choice for pregnant women, as they're hypoallergenic and sit on the skin instead of being absorbed by it. Choose those labeled as water-resistant, even if you don't plan on taking a dip.

It's important to remember, though, not to worry too much about individual sunscreen ingredients, despite what you may have heard or read. If you're unsure about whether a particular sunscreen is safe during pregnancy, check the label and talk to your doctor.

Another tip: Don’t use sunscreen made with insect repellent, since it's less effective. If you need repellent, buy it separately and apply it after you put on sunscreen. Keep in mind that you may need to reapply sunscreen more often, since bug spray may lower the effectiveness of sun block.

Why is using sunscreen especially important when I'm pregnant?

Not only will sunscreen protect you from skin cancer, but it will also shield your skin from discoloration and other pregnancy-related conditions that can be exacerbated by sun exposure.

Since your skin tends to be more sensitive when you're pregnant, melasma and other kinds of hyperpigmentation — blotches, patches, dots or lines that can vary in color from reddish-purple to brown, blue or gray — are more of a possibility and can become more pronounced when you're exposed to the sun.

More on Your Skin During Pregnancy

Sun safety tips for pregnant women

If you're planning to be outside a lot during your pregnancy, protect yourself from the sun by taking the following steps:

  • Try to stay inside during peak sun hours, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., as much as possible.
  • Stay in a shaded area whenever possible when you're outside, especially when the sun is at its hottest. 
  • Apply sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before you go outside. Reapply every two hours.
  • Use about 1 ounce (that's about a shot glass worth) and thoroughly spread over all exposed skin.
  • Apply lip balm or lipstick with an SPF of 30 or higher on your lips.
  • Try to cover as much skin as possible and choose light clothing in cotton or another breathable fabric, preferably in a tight weave (hold it up to the sun; the less light that passes through, the better).
  • Don’t forget a hat and sunglasses (ideally with 99 percent UV protection).
Remember, you definitely don't have to stay inside just because you’re pregnant. By all means, get out there and have fun! Just be sure to make sun protection a priority.