Optimising Skin Health When Trying to Conceive: A Dermatologist’s Guide

When you’re planning to conceive, there’s a lot on your mind—from diet and lifestyle to managing stress and preparing your body for the changes ahead. But one area that often gets overlooked in this journey is your skin health. As a dermatologist, I frequently meet women who are trying to conceive, whether naturally or through assisted reproductive technologies like IVF, and they’re often unsure about which skincare products are safe to use or how to handle the skin changes that come with fluctuating hormone levels. Let’s explore how to optimise your skin health when trying to conceive, what to watch out for in your skincare routine, and why consulting a dermatologist might be a wise move during this time.

Understanding Hormonal Changes and Skin Impact

Hormones have a significant impact on skin health, and this becomes even more pronounced when you’re trying to conceive. The body undergoes various hormonal shifts even before pregnancy begins, which can lead to skin concerns such as acne, dryness, sensitivity, and pigmentation changes.

When you stop hormonal contraception in preparation for pregnancy, your skin may react to the sudden shift in hormones. Research shows that oestrogen and progesterone levels, which help regulate the menstrual cycle and are key in pregnancy, can influence the skin’s oil production, hydration levels, and overall texture. Additionally, if you’re undergoing IVF or preparing for embryo transfer, the high doses of hormones involved can cause further changes. These hormones can stimulate oil glands, leading to an increase in acne, or exacerbate conditions like melasma (dark patches on the skin) due to increased melanin production.

Common Skin Concerns When Trying to Conceive

As you navigate the journey to conception, whether naturally or through IVF, you might notice changes in your skin. Here are some common skin concerns during this time:

• Oily skin, acne, and breakouts: Hormonal fluctuations often lead to increased sebum (oil) production, which can clog pores and cause acne. This can be particularly pronounced after stopping birth control or during fertility treatments when hormone levels are artificially manipulated.
• Increased sensitivity and redness: Hormonal changes can make the skin more sensitive and prone to redness, dryness, or irritation. This is especially true if you have a history of sensitive skin or conditions like rosacea or eczema.
• Pigmentation changes: An increase in melanocyte-stimulating hormones can cause dark patches or melasma in pregnancy. This can also be seen in women undergoing IVF due to the high levels of hormones used in the process.
• Dryness and dehydration: Hormonal shifts can also affect the skin’s ability to retain moisture, leading to dryness or flakiness. Keeping the skin well-hydrated and maintaining a strong skin barrier is essential during this time.

Navigating Skincare Confusion: What’s Safe When Trying to Conceive?

When you’re trying to conceive, whether naturally or through IVF, you might find yourself wondering which skincare products are safe to use. The skincare landscape can be confusing, with countless products on the market and mixed messages about what is safe during conception and pregnancy. Here’s a guide to help you navigate this tricky terrain:

• Avoid certain ingredients: Some skincare ingredients are best avoided during conception and pregnancy due to potential risks to the developing baby. Retinoids (often found in anti-ageing products), high concentrations of salicylic acid, and other exfoliating acids can fall into this category. 
• Emphasise hydration and skin barrier support: Ingredients that support hydration and the skin barrier are your best friends. Look for products containing hyaluronic acid to retain moisture, ceramides to strengthen the skin’s barrier, and niacinamide to soothe irritation and reduce sensitivity.
• Choose Safe Sun Protection: Protecting your skin from UV damage is always important, but it becomes even more crucial when trying to conceive, especially if you’re prone to pigmentation changes. Opt for high factor broad-spectrum sunscreen with blue light protection to reduce the risk of pigmentation.
• Consider mild active ingredients: Consider azelaic acid, which is both effective in managing acne and pigmentation and safe for use when trying to conceive. It is an anti-inflammatory rather than an exfoliating acid and can also help with redness.

Preventative Acne Treatments: The Role of Laser

For women prone to acne, especially those who experience breakouts after stopping hormonal contraception or undergoing fertility treatments, taking preventative measures can be highly beneficial. One innovative treatment to consider is a drug-free, non-invasive laser therapy that targets sebaceous glands to reduce oil production and prevent acne.

It offers a preventative approach without the need for systemic medications, which may be restricted when trying to conceive or during pregnancy. By reducing oil production, the laser  can help maintain clearer skin during a time when treatment options are more limited due to safety concerns. It’s a great option to discuss with your consultant dermatologist, particularly if you’re seeking ways to manage acne without relying on potentially harmful medications.

Adapting Skincare During IVF and Embryo Transfer

If you’re undergoing IVF or preparing for an embryo transfer, your skin is likely to undergo additional changes due to the high levels of hormones administered during treatment. These hormones can exacerbate acne, increase pigmentation issues like melasma, and make your skin more sensitive or reactive.

In such cases, a tailored skincare routine that addresses these specific concerns is essential. Working with a dermatologist can help you develop a plan that suits your skin’s needs while being mindful of the changes brought on by fertility treatments. They can recommend safe, effective products and treatments, such as laser treatment, to help manage skin concerns during this time.

Supporting Skin Health Through Lifestyle

Optimising skin health isn’t just about topical skincare—it’s also about making healthy lifestyle choices that support your body from within. Here are a few tips to help support your skin health while trying to conceive:

• Nutrition: Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants supports both your overall health and your skin. Focus on foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon and flaxseeds, which help maintain the skin barrier, and plenty of fruits and vegetables for antioxidants.
• Manage stress: Stress can trigger skin issues, particularly during the emotionally taxing process of trying to conceive. Incorporating stress management techniques like yoga, meditation, or mindfulness can help keep your skin (and mind) calm.
• Prioritise sleep: Quality sleep is essential for skin repair and overall health. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night to support your skin’s natural healing processes and maintain a healthy complexion.
• Stay active: Regular exercise boosts circulation, delivering oxygen and nutrients to your skin cells, promoting a healthy glow. It’s also an excellent way to manage stress, further benefiting your skin health.

When to Seek Professional Advice

If you’re trying to conceive and have concerns about your skin, whether it’s dealing with acne, pigmentation, or sensitivity, seeing a consultant dermatologist can provide valuable insights. A professional can help you create a tailored skincare routine, recommend safe treatments like  laser for acne prevention, and offer guidance on managing skin changes related to hormonal shifts or fertility treatments.

With the right approach, you can feel confident that you’re caring for your skin as you prepare for the exciting journey ahead.

Final Thoughts

Preparing for conception, whether naturally or through IVF, involves a lot of planning and care. While you’re focusing on nourishing your body and mind, don’t forget to consider the impact on your skin. By understanding hormonal changes, navigating skincare product safety, considering preventative treatments like AviClear laser, and maintaining healthy lifestyle habits, you can optimise your skin health and prepare for the changes pregnancy may bring.

Taking the time to care for your skin now will not only help you feel good about your appearance but will also ensure that your skin is resilient and healthy throughout your conception journey and beyond. If you have questions or specific skin concerns, don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance. A dermatologist can help you navigate this complex time with confidence, knowing that you are making the best choices for both your skin and your future baby.

Inspiring skin confidence with Hertility and Self London