Mother’s Day 2025: Hormones, Blood Flow, And The ‘Glow’—Dermatologist Explains Pregnancy Skin Changes (Image Credits: iStock)
You’ve probably heard people say that pregnant women glow—and if you’ve ever seen it, you know what they mean. It’s that soft, radiant, almost magical brightness on the face that many expecting mothers seem to carry. But what really causes this pregnancy glow? Is it just happiness, or is there actual science behind it?
Turns out, there’s both emotion and biology at play. “Pregnancy is a beautiful time. Emotionally, you’re preparing to welcome a tiny little person into your world. And as a woman and a dermatologist, I truly believe all women glow—especially during pregnancy!” says Dr Reshma T. Vishnani, Consultant Dermatologist, Trichologist, and Aesthetic Dermatologist at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai.
Dr Vishnani explains that this glow becomes more noticeable around the 12th week of pregnancy, and there are a few key reasons behind it.
One major factor is the hormonal changes. Pregnancy leads to an increase in hormones like estrogen and progesterone, which stimulate the skin’s oil glands. This results in more sebum (natural oil) production, making the skin appear hydrated, dewy, and radiant.
Then there’s the matter of increased blood circulation. “A pregnant woman’s blood volume increases by up to 50 per cent to support both her and the growing baby,” says Dr Vishnani. This improved blood flow and vasodilation (widening of blood vessels) make the skin—especially on the face—look flushed and warm, adding to the glow.
The hormonal boost also improves skin cell turnover and enhances hydration, making the skin smoother and fresher. Some women also notice that their hair becomes thicker and nails grow faster, which are added bonuses of these hormonal changes.
But it’s not all roses for everyone.
While some women enjoy glowing, clear skin, others may face the opposite. “For women with acne-prone skin, the increased oil production can lead to breakouts,” warns Dr. Vishnani. Other common skin issues during pregnancy include melasma (dark patches), stretch marks, and increased skin sensitivity.
Apart from the visible skin changes, pregnancy triggers a series of incredible changes inside the body. Organs shift to make room for the growing baby, ligaments become more flexible, and the metabolism speeds up. Hormones affect everything—from your mood to your sense of smell.
In short, pregnancy is a time of many emotional and physical changes, and the glow is just one visible sign of everything that’s happening inside the body.
So, if you or someone you know is glowing during pregnancy, now you know why! And if there are a few breakouts or dark patches along the way—that’s completely normal too.
“Pregnancy brings out the natural beauty in many women,” adds Dr Vishnani. “But even the changes that feel a bit difficult are part of the incredible journey of bringing a new life into the world.”
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