Ultimate Guide: Med Spa Treatments During Pregnancy & IVF

Pregnancy and IVF are powerful journeys—filled with excitement, change, and the need for extra care. Your skin is no exception. But with shifting hormones and heightened sensitivity, how do you know what’s safe? This guide helps you navigate skincare and med spa treatments during pregnancy and IVF—with confidence and care.

Understanding Skin Changes During Pregnancy & IVF

Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy and IVF can lead to various skin changes, including:

• Acne Breakouts: Increased oil production may cause breakouts, even for those who usually have clear skin. The surge of hormones can result in several side effects, like mood swings, breast tenderness, hot flashes, headaches, greasy hair, and water retention. Acne is especially common during IVF due to the surge of synthetic hormones.
• Hyperpigmentation: Known as melasma or the “mask of pregnancy,” dark patches can appear on the face. Factors like hormonal shifts, skin type, and product use can affect duration. Pigmentation may fade after pregnancy, or persist longer in some cases.
• Increased Sensitivity: Hormonal changes can affect the skin’s barrier, leading to irritation, redness, and breakouts. Gentle, soothing products help manage these fluctuations.

At Renew Medical Spa, we offer customized skincare regimens to help manage these concerns safely and effectively.

Safe Skincare Ingredients & Products

Not all skincare ingredients are pregnancy-safe. Here’s a breakdown of what to look for and what to avoid:

Safe Ingredients:

• ✔ Hyaluronic Acid – Provides deep hydration and a plumping effect.
• ✔ Vitamin C – Helps brighten skin and fade hyperpigmentation.
• ✔ Niacinamide – Soothes inflammation and strengthens the skin barrier.
• ✔ Zinc Oxide & Titanium Dioxide – Safe mineral-based sunscreens for UV protection.
• ✔ Shea Butter & Coconut Oil – Natural moisturizers that support hydration and stretch marks.

Ingredients to Avoid:

• ❌ Retinoids (Retinol, Retin-A, Tretinoin) – Can harm fetal development.
• ❌ Salicylic Acid (in high concentrations) – Some forms are unsafe during pregnancy.
• ❌ Hydroquinone – May have systemic absorption risks.
• ❌ Certain Essential Oils – Such as rosemary and clary sage, which may induce contractions.

Pregnancy & IVF-Safe Med Spa Treatments

Our pregnancy-safe facials and skincare consultations at Renew Medical Spa ensure you use the right products for your changing skin. You don’t have to skip med spa treatments completely!

Safe Med Spa Treatments:

• Hydrafacials & Oxygen Facials: Gentle hydration and cleansing treatments that boost skin glow and assist with lymphatic drainage.
• LED Light Therapy (Red Light): Helps with inflammation and skin repair.
• Prenatal Massages: Relieves stress and promotes circulation.
• Manicures & Pedicures: Safe when free of harsh chemicals.
• Dermaplaning: Noninvasive way to remove dead skin and boost radiance.
• Gentle Microdermabrasion: Light exfoliation using crystals or a diamond-tipped wand for a smoother complexion.

Treatments to Avoid:

• Laser Treatments: Can trigger sensitivity and hyperpigmentation.
• Botox & Fillers: Not recommended during pregnancy.
• Microneedling: May cause irritation and requires numbing agents not advised during pregnancy.
• Coolsculpting: Not recommended due to lack of fetal safety studies and changes in fat distribution during pregnancy.

The Great Chemical Peel Debate

While opinions vary, Renew Medical Spa takes a cautious approach and does not perform chemical peels during IVF or pregnancy. Always consult your fertility specialist before considering treatments that involve active ingredients or chemicals.

Take a Break from Steaming, Soaking, or Sweating

Babies can’t regulate their temperature in the womb, so it’s essential to keep your core body temperature safe:

• DO: Enjoy warm baths or hot tub soaks, but keep the water below 101°F.
• DON’T: Use saunas, hot tubs, or mud baths that cause overheating.

Essential Skincare Tips During Pregnancy & IVF

• Hydrate & Moisturize: Helps prevent stretch marks and dryness.
• Use Sunscreen Daily: Protects against hyperpigmentation. Choose SPF 30+ professional-grade options.
• Opt for Fragrance-Free Products: Reduces risk of irritation.
• Consult with a Dermatologist: Always confirm treatment plans with a professional.
• Prioritize Self-Care: Stress affects skin health—choose relaxing, safe treatments.

Final Thoughts

Caring for your skin during pregnancy and IVF doesn’t have to be confusing or overwhelming. With the right support and products, you can maintain your glow while honoring your body’s journey with these pregnancy safe med spa treatments.Let us help you feel confident and cared for every step of the way.Book a consultation today—and always let your provider know where you are in your journey, even during routine treatments. We’re here to support you.**As always, please note that all treatment considerations should be discussed with your fertility specialist to ensure safe practices and guidelines as every pregnancy journey is different.

Sources

• RRC: Spa Treatments While Trying to Conceive
• Cyprus American IVF: Pregnancy Pigmentation
• Sozo Clinic: IVF Acne Treatment
• IP Acupuncture: Skincare & Fertility
• RealSelf: Chemical Peel During Pregnancy
• Skinician: Skincare While Trying to Conceive