The journey through IVF can be both physically and emotionally demanding, and skin changes are a common side effect that many don’t anticipate. Dryness and sensitivity often become heightened during treatment, leaving patients searching for safe and effective ways to care for their skin.
In Episode 22 of our Expert Insights Series, Consultant Dermatologist Advisor, Professor Caitriona Ryan, shares her guidance on these changes during IVF and how to manage them with confidence.
Why Does Skin Sensitivity & Dryness Happen During IVF?
Professionals say that the most important thing to keep in mind during IVF is restoring and protecting your skin barrier by keeping your routine gentle and supportive. IVF medications and hormonal changes can disrupt the skin’s natural balance, leading to increased dryness, irritation, and sensitivity. Elevated estrogen and progesterone levels, along with other fertility drugs, can alter oil production and hydration, making the skin feel tight, flaky, or more prone to redness.
Because the skin barrier acts as your first line of defense, once it becomes compromised, irritants can penetrate more easily while vital moisture escapes. This is why a focus on barrier repair with hydrating, soothing, and non-irritating skincare is essential for maintaining comfort and resilience during treatment.
What Products/Ingredients Can Help?
Experts recommend gentle products and ingredients that can help the integrity of the skin barrier such as:
- Ceramides
- Hyaluronic Acid
- Niacinamide
- Ectoin
Professionals specifically recommend the SKN TO SKN Go & Glow Daily Moisturiser with Mineral SPF 30 and the Sleep Cheat Night Cream. Together, these products provide round-the-clock hydration, keeping your skin protected during the day and deeply nourished at night, so there’s never a moment when your skin isn’t cared for.
What Is The Skin Barrier & Why Is It So Important?
Your skin barrier is the outermost layer of your skin, often called the stratum corneum. Think of it as your skin’s natural shield: a protective wall made up of skin cells (like bricks) held together by lipids.
Its role is crucial: it keeps moisture in, blocks out irritants, pollutants, and bacteria, and helps maintain balance so your skin feels healthy and resilient.
When the skin barrier becomes weakened, which can happen during IVF treatment due to hormonal changes and medication, moisture escapes more easily and your skin may feel dry, tight, or sensitive. Supporting and repairing this barrier with gentle, hydrating products is the key to restoring comfort and strength.
Final Thoughts...
Going through IVF is a uniquely challenging journey, and it’s natural for your skin to reflect some of the changes happening within your body. By focusing on gentle, barrier-supportive care and choosing ingredients that hydrate, calm, and protect, you can help your skin stay resilient and comfortable throughout treatment. If you notice any persistent changes in your skin, it’s always best to reach out to your GP or dermatologist for advice and support.
Written by Professor Caitriona Ryan, Consultant Dermatologist