In this article:
What Is Pregnancy Glow, Scientifically Speaking?
The term “pregnancy glow” refers to visible skin changes during pregnancy, typically brighter, smoother, and slightly flushed skin. While it sounds romanticised, this glow often has a physiological basis. It’s a result of increased blood flow, hormonal shifts, and subtle inflammation responses in the skin.- Increased vascularity: Your body produces up to 50% more blood during pregnancy to support your growing baby. This enhanced circulation gives your skin a slightly flushed, warm tone, especially across the cheeks.
- Sebaceous gland activity: Pregnancy hormones, especially oestrogen and progesterone, ramp up oil production. For some, this leads to a balanced, plump, moisturised appearance. For others, it crosses into greasiness or acne.
- Water retention and plumpness: Higher levels of oestrogen increase fluid retention in your skin cells, giving your face a fuller, smoother look.
- Mild vasodilation: Blood vessels expand slightly, which can make your skin appear warmer and more vibrant, particularly in areas with dense capillaries like the face and chest.
Why It Matters: The Upsides and Downsides
The glow may be a confidence booster, but it doesn’t come without its caveats. Here's how it shows up in real life.- You may feel more attractive or visible: For many, the glow brings compliments and a sense of wellness. A healthy flush is often perceived as a sign of vitality.
- You may also feel oilier or sweatier: The same oil that plumps your skin can clog pores or exaggerate shine. This is especially true in hot climates or humid regions of India.
- You might break out more easily: Increased sebum can mix with dead skin cells and trigger breakouts. The glow and acne can appear together.
- Your glow may not last: For some, the glow is strongest in the second trimester and fades as hormonal changes continue or sleep quality declines.
Can It Be Diagnosed or Measured?
Not exactly. There’s no clinical test for the glow—it’s a visible, subjective experience. Some people notice it themselves, others hear about it from others. Unlike conditions like pregnancy, acne or melasma, the glow isn’t monitored or recorded by doctors.That said, dermatologists may attribute the dewy appearance to:
- Increased perfusion in capillaries
- Higher oil production (sebum)
- Reduction in fine lines due to water retention
The absence of glow doesn’t indicate a problem. If your skin feels dry or irritated instead, it may just reflect your skin’s baseline sensitivity or local environmental factors.
What to Do If You Don’t “Glow”
There’s no need to feel worried if your skin doesn’t match the pregnancy glow narrative. In fact, many people experience:- Dryness or flakiness due to winter weather or dehydration
- Pigmentation changes like melasma or linea nigra
- Acne, especially around the jawline or chin
- Itchiness or rashes from stretching skin or allergic reactions
These are normal. If your skin doesn’t glow, it doesn’t reflect anything about your pregnancy health or foetal development. And you’re not doing anything wrong.
What can help:
- Staying hydrated (especially in India’s dry summer seasons)
- Using a gentle, fragrance-free moisturiser twice a day
- Cleansing with a mild soap or pH-balanced face wash
- Avoiding over-exfoliation or harsh scrubs
- Consulting a dermatologist if skin changes become painful, persistent, or concerning
Cultural Perception vs. Physical Reality
In Indian families, a glowing face during pregnancy is often seen as a good omen or proof that the baby is healthy. These beliefs are not backed by science.Still, it’s important to recognise the pressure that comes from this narrative. Not glowing may lead some to feel like their pregnancy is abnormal or less joyous. That emotional weight deserves to be addressed. Every body reacts differently to pregnancy, and glow is just one of many possible experiences, not a measure of how well you’re doing.
Pregnancy glow is real, but it’s not universal. If you have it, enjoy it. If you don’t, that’s okay too. Whether you’re breaking out, flushed, or glowing from within, these shifts are all part of your body adapting to pregnancy. What matters most is how you feel and care for yourself, not how others say you look.
FAQs on What Causes the Pregnancy Glow?
- Does every pregnant woman get the glow?
No. Some do, some don’t. And for some, it’s a mix of glow and breakouts. - When does pregnancy glow usually start?
Most people notice it in the second trimester, when blood volume and hormone levels peak. - Can I enhance the glow safely?
Yes, by staying hydrated, eating nutrient-rich food, getting sleep, and using gentle, pregnancy-safe skincare.
