The truth about "pregnancy glow"

In short: The pregnancy glow is real for some women. Extra blood flow makes the skin look rosier, and more oil gives it a dewy look. But the same oil can cause acne, and many women get dark patches or a dark line on the belly instead. Not glowing is completely normal. Keep skincare simple, use sunscreen, and check with your doctor before using any acne or pigment treatment while pregnant.

When you think of pregnancy, you often hear about the famous "pregnancy glow." That radiant skin, that magical sparkle in the eyes, is almost treated like a guaranteed perk of growing a little human. But here is the truth: not everyone feels (or looks) like they are glowing. And that is completely normal.

Let us talk about what is going on beneath the surface.

Where the "glow" comes from

Biologically, pregnancy causes major hormonal shifts. Estrogen and progesterone levels surge, and your blood volume increases by almost 40-50%. This extra blood flow can make your skin appear rosier and more luminous. At the same time, pregnancy hormones cause your oil glands to produce more sebum (natural oils). For some women, this adds a beautiful, dewy effect to the skin, the so-called "glow."

More blood = more skin radiance More oil = dewier complexion

But here is the flip side: This very increase in oil production can also lead to breakouts, even if you have never had acne before.

Why do some women break out instead?

For many, pregnancy feels more like a flashback to teenage acne rather than a supermodel moment. Why? Because the same oil that gives others a dewy glow can clog pores and trigger hormonal acne.

Common pregnancy skin issues include:

• Cystic acne (deep, painful pimples, often around the chin and jawline)
• Increased blackheads and whiteheads
• Overall oiliness

Some women may even experience worse breakouts during the first and second trimesters, when hormone levels are skyrocketing.

What about skin darkening and pigmentation?

Another very real (and very common) phenomenon: hyperpigmentation.

During pregnancy, the body produces more melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color. This is largely influenced by a hormone called melanocyte-stimulating hormone, which ramps up during pregnancy.

Result?

• Melasma: Dark, blotchy patches, often on the cheeks, forehead, or upper lip (sometimes called the "mask of pregnancy")
• Linea nigra: A dark line that may appear vertically across the belly
• Darkening of scars, freckles, moles, nipples, and even the genital area

Pigmentation changes like these are very common in pregnancy.

And no, this does not feel like a "glow." It can be frustrating, emotional, and affect self-esteem, and that is okay to acknowledge.

Some days, you just don’t feel radiant, and that’s normal

Beyond skin changes, pregnancy brings:

• Morning sickness
• Exhaustion
• Body aches
• Emotional ups and downs
• Swelling

Some days, you might feel anything but radiant. You might feel bloated, tired, cranky, or anxious. This does not mean you are doing anything wrong; it simply means your body is working overtime to build a new life.

Tips if you are struggling with skin changes

If pregnancy has left your skin feeling less-than-glowy, here are some gentle tips:

• Keep it simple: Use mild, fragrance-free cleansers and moisturizers.
• Sun protection: Always use sunscreen to help prevent further pigmentation (even indoors).
• Hydrate: Drink plenty of water to support circulation and skin health.
• Be mindful with treatments: Not all acne or pigmentation treatments are safe in pregnancy. Always check with your healthcare provider before starting anything new.
• Be kind to yourself: Your body is doing hard, miraculous work; it deserves compassion, not criticism.

Pregnancy glow is real, for some. For others, it's breakouts, pigmentation, and feeling exhausted in sweatpants. Both experiences are valid. Both are normal.

Questions women ask

What causes the pregnancy glow?

During pregnancy your blood volume rises and hormones change. The extra blood flow can make your face look flushed and bright, and your oil glands make more oil, which gives skin a dewy shine. That combination is the glow people talk about.

Do all pregnant women glow?

No. Many women get breakouts, oily skin or dark patches instead, and some just feel tired and swollen. This does not mean anything is wrong with you or your baby. Your body is simply working hard.

Why do I have acne or dark patches in pregnancy?

The extra oil that causes a glow in some women can clog pores and cause pimples, often on the chin and jaw. Pregnancy hormones also boost skin pigment, causing melasma on the cheeks and forehead, a dark line on the belly, and darker nipples and moles.

How can I care for my skin during pregnancy?

Use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser and moisturiser, wear sunscreen every day to stop pigmentation getting darker, and drink enough water. Not every skin treatment is safe in pregnancy, so check with your doctor before starting anything new.

Which skin changes in pregnancy need a doctor?

See your doctor if a mole changes shape, size or colour, or you get a rash or painful acne. Call the same day if you have intense itching, especially on the palms and soles. Go to hospital straight away if you have sudden swelling of the face and hands with headache or blurred vision.