Pregnancy glow: what’s really happening with your skin

Have you ever noticed that special radiance many pregnant women seem to have? That luminous, dewy appearance isn’t just your imagination—it’s a real physiological phenomenon often called the “pregnancy glow.” But what exactly causes this coveted complexion change, and is it the same for everyone?

The science behind the glow

When you’re pregnant, your body undergoes remarkable transformations, many of which directly affect your skin. The pregnancy glow is primarily the result of two major physiological changes:

Increased blood circulation

During pregnancy, your body works overtime to support both you and your growing baby. Your basal metabolic rate increases by approximately 20% during pregnancy, according to research from the Global Library of Women’s Medicine. Even more dramatically, your blood volume expands by 30-40% above non-pregnant levels, beginning at 6-8 weeks of gestation and reaching its peak between weeks 28-34 of pregnancy.

This substantial increase in circulation brings more blood to your skin’s surface, creating that characteristic flushed, radiant appearance. The enhanced blood flow delivers more oxygen and nutrients to your skin cells, giving you that healthy, vibrant look that many associate with pregnancy.

Hormonal influences on skin

Pregnancy hormones don’t just affect your mood and appetite—they transform your skin too. Progesterone and estrogen levels rise significantly during pregnancy, with progesterone acting to hyperpolarize cell membranes and affect smooth muscle in the vascular system, contributing to decreased peripheral resistance.

According to research published in the PMC, pregnancy typically increases the activity of both eccrine and sebaceous glands while decreasing apocrine gland activity. This means your skin may produce more oil and sweat during pregnancy. The combination of elevated sebum production and increased blood volume creates the perfect conditions for that coveted pregnancy glow.

When to expect the glow

While the Cleveland Clinic reports that pregnancy glow typically appears during the second trimester, it can actually happen at any point throughout your pregnancy. Some women notice changes in their skin almost immediately, while others may experience the glow later or not at all.

As Dr. Catherine Caponero from Cleveland Clinic notes, “There are people who ‘glow’ who truly love being pregnant, but not everyone enjoys pregnancy.” Your experience is uniquely yours, and your skin’s response to pregnancy can vary widely from others. Factors like your baseline skin type, hormonal balance, and overall health can all influence whether and how you experience the pregnancy glow.

Common skin changes beyond the glow

While the pregnancy glow gets all the attention, many women experience other skin changes that aren’t quite as celebrated. Understanding these changes can help you navigate your pregnancy skincare journey with confidence.

Acne and oiliness

That increased sebaceous gland activity we mentioned earlier can be a double-edged sword. For some women, the extra oil production results in that dewy glow, but for others, it might trigger breakouts or exacerbate existing acne.

Research shows that the effects of enhanced sebaceous activity on acne vulgaris during pregnancy are variable, with studies reporting both improvement and worsening of acne. Some women who struggled with acne before pregnancy find that their skin clears up, while others experience breakouts for the first time. If you’re experiencing pregnancy-related breakouts, know that you’re not alone—and there are safe ways to manage them.

Pigmentation changes

Many pregnant women notice darkening of certain areas of skin, including the nipples, areolas, and the linea nigra (a dark line that may appear down the middle of your belly). Melasma—sometimes called the “mask of pregnancy”—can also appear as darker patches on the face, particularly on the cheeks, upper lip, and forehead.

These changes occur because pregnancy hormones can stimulate melanin production, the pigment responsible for skin color. While these pigmentation changes can be concerning, they’re typically temporary and often fade after delivery, though some may persist longer.

Skin sensitivity and dryness

Despite increased oil production in some areas, you might experience dryness or sensitivity in others. Your skin’s barrier function can change during pregnancy, making it more reactive to products you’ve used for years without issue.

This heightened sensitivity is yet another way your body adapts during pregnancy. The hormonal fluctuations that cause other skin changes can also alter how your skin responds to environmental factors, skincare products, and even clothing textures.

Safe skincare during pregnancy

With all these skin changes happening, you might be wondering how to adapt your skincare routine. Here are some general guidelines:

Focus on gentle cleansing

Use mild, fragrance-free cleansers that won’t strip your skin of its natural oils. Cleansing twice daily helps manage increased oil production without over-drying. Look for products labeled as gentle or suitable for sensitive skin, as these are less likely to irritate your already changing skin.

Remember that overwashing can actually stimulate more oil production, so finding the right balance is key. Lukewarm water is also gentler on your skin than hot water, which can strip away protective oils.

Moisturize appropriately

Even if your skin feels oilier, don’t skip moisturizer. Choose non-comedogenic formulas that won’t clog pores but will support your skin’s barrier function. For areas that feel dry or tight, you might need a richer formula, while oilier zones might benefit from a lightweight, oil-free gel moisturizer.

Hydration is particularly important as your skin stretches to accommodate your growing baby. While moisturizers won’t prevent stretch marks (which are largely determined by genetics and the speed of weight gain), they can help alleviate the itchiness that often accompanies skin stretching.

Sun protection is non-negotiable

Pregnancy can make your skin more sun-sensitive and prone to pigmentation issues. Wear a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen daily and seek shade when possible. This is especially important if you’re experiencing melasma, as sun exposure can worsen this condition.

Physical (mineral) sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are often recommended during pregnancy as they sit on the skin’s surface rather than being absorbed. They also tend to be less irritating for sensitive skin.

Be ingredient-conscious

Some skincare ingredients should be avoided during pregnancy. Work with your healthcare provider to determine which products in your current routine are pregnancy-safe and which should be temporarily shelved. While your provider is the best source of personalized advice, many recommend caution with potent active ingredients and a focus on gentle, supportive skincare during this time.

Embracing your changing skin

Whether you’re experiencing the fabled pregnancy glow or dealing with less glamorous skin changes, remember that these transformations are temporary. Your skin, like the rest of your body, is adapting to support the incredible journey of creating new life.

Try to approach these changes with curiosity rather than frustration. Document your skin’s journey if that helps you process the changes, and remember that perfect skin isn’t a prerequisite for a healthy pregnancy. Focus on supporting your skin’s health rather than achieving a specific aesthetic result.

For more comprehensive support during your pregnancy journey, explore our specialized Pregnancy Course at Beginning.com Academy, where we offer evidence-based resources to help you navigate every aspect of this transformative time.

The pregnancy glow may be fleeting, but the knowledge and self-care practices you develop during this time can benefit your skin—and overall well-being—for years to come.