Pregnancy Glow: Fact or Fiction

*You have probably heard of the term ‘pregnancy glow’, or maybe even been told you have it. It’s true that due to numerous biological reasons, some pregnant women can experience what is known as a ‘pregnancy glow’, but it is by no means universal. Below we will break down some of the key causes of ‘pregnancy glow’ as well as its unanticipated side-effects.*

## What causes the pregnancy glow?

### Hormones

As with almost all bodily changes during this time, your fluctuating hormones play a major role. Increased oestrogen causes the blood vessels to dilate, and progesterone increases oil production [1]. The results of this can brighten your skin and make you appear flushed giving you that glow.

### Increased Blood Flow

Your blood flow will increase by around 45% to help support you and your growing baby [2]. Due to this and the hormonal factors, your blood vessels dilate which can give your skin a reddish tinge and also make it appear fuller and brighter.

### Increased Oil Production

Due to an increase in blood volume and the hormone progesterone, your body is producing more oil and sebum. This can cause a luminous glow to the skin.

However, as you are producing more oil, there can be downsides for some women who may experience breakouts and acne [3]. Keeping acne-affected skin clean and oil-free can help. However, certain acne and skin care products should be avoided whilst pregnant:

- Prescription anti-acne drugs such as isotretinoin and tretinoin can cause birth defects and should never be used during pregnancy.

- Avoid using abrasive scrubs or exfoliates as they can irritate sensitive skin.

Generally, most over-the-counter acne cleansers and treatments are safe to use during pregnancy, but you should always check with your doctor first. The good news though, is that this acne will usually go away shortly after delivery.

### Heat Rash

Due to hormonal fluctuations in progesterone and the increased blood flow and additional weight of carrying your baby your body temperature is likely to raise [4]. This may cause hot flushes or heat rashes which can add redness to your cheeks, making you appear glowing and giving a radiant look.

### How long does Pregnancy Glow Last?

Pregnancy glow is more likely to occur during the second trimester, however there is no set timeframe [5]. The appearance of such radiant and glowing skin however is only temporary and goes away shortly after giving birth.

### Do All Women Experience Pregnancy Glow?

Unfortunately, no. Not every woman will experience the pregnancy glow. In fact, the same hormonal and bodily changes that may have caused pregnancy glow in one woman may be causing acne and blemishes or ‘pregnancy mask’ in another, where the skin has brown and grey pigmentation to the face.

> Although pregnancy glow is not a myth, it is not a universal result of pregnancy. The same bodily responses which are causing flushed and radiant skin for one woman, may cause acne breakouts and ‘pregnancy mask’ for others. Every woman experiences pregnancy uniquely, and this is the same for the side effects.