It is common for pregnant moms to get compliments about how they're glowing and looking more beautiful while carrying a baby to term. Pregnancy glow is an actual occurrence and it's not just because moms are thrilled with joy to be having a baby. Science has an explanation as to what's really going on.
Pregnancy glow is a phase many pregnant moms welcome with open arms. It's when they appear to have brighter, rosier, shinier and fuller face that seems to highlight their facial features even better. There's no effort to use soap, makeup and other beauty products to achieve this pregnancy glow, as it happens naturally. It's because the physiology of the body changes during pregnancy.
Pregnancy Glow Is Due To Increased Blood And Oil Production
Blood volume increases when a woman is pregnant to ensure the health of the placenta. But as this is happening, the body also levels off blood distribution and it's the facial skin that benefits from this the most, per Hello Giggles.
Another reason for why pregnancy glow appears is due to the increase in hormones that being pregnant also triggers. This increase then affects oil glands production. With more oil, the skin becomes shinier. With more blood, the skin becomes brighter and blushed, per Good Housekeeping.
Pregnant and Beautiful: The pregnancy glow is real! https://t.co/I9znGteHLx pic.twitter.com/ovX6NDLrKG
— stylishzin (@stylishziin) May 25, 2016
Pregnancy Glow Has An Opposite Effect In Some Moms
But there is a downside to these physiological changes as instead of a pregnancy glow, some pregnant moms could develop more acne and skin irritation. Depending on a mom's skin type, they could develop a full blown acne outbreak just like a teenager. But this should dissipate as soon as the baby arrives.
Experts advise that pregnant moms should still continue taking care of their skin's health by keeping with their skin care regimen. While obstetricians commonly watch out for blood pressure, glucose and iron levels, weight gain and the baby's growth, they won't be particular about skin occurrences.
Apart from acne, pregnant women have to also watch out for varicose veins, stretch marks and a rare skin condition linked to pregnancy called melasma. If they find unusual skin developments during pregnancy, they should seek out a dermatologist, and not an OBGYN, as soon as possible.
