The idea of a beaming face matching the growing bump is rooted in our minds, and for some, it’s a reality. Others suffer through some rough times with morning sickness and other issues that dull the glow. 

Let’s talk about how you can get and keep the glow, and how pregnancy is going to change your skincare routine.

The science of a pregnancy glow and more

Have you noticed that some people just look better when they’re pregnant? You can’t quite put your finger on it, but there’s something different. 

It’s true, the changes in blood volume, estrogen, and progesterone all give your skin and body a little boost, which makes you look better, healthier, and usually gives you a glow. Here’s how:

♦ More blood to the skin makes your face look “filled out” and radiant.

♦ Increased cell turnover helps provide a fresh look.

♦ Psoriasis and eczema clear up for many sufferers, which is due to the immunosuppression effects of pregnancy.

♦ Hair growth tends to be halted in the anagen stage, which is the active stage. This means less fallout, so it looks full and lush.

♦ Many women boast of awesome pregnancy nails. This is due to estrogen and better overall nutrition.

♦ Let’s not forget the happiness quotient. Many women are thrilled to be expecting, and happiness alone can cause you to beam and look incredible.

The truth of the matter is that some women experience all of these wonderful benefits during pregnancy, and others don’t or only experience a few. It’s all related to genetics and your health during and before pregnancy. 

How to get and maintain a pregnancy glow

The pregnancy glow is temporary, even those blessed with the best skin of their lives during pregnancy are going to lose it once they give birth. If you want that glow back or if you never had it but still want it, these tips can help.

♦ Hydrate from the inside and outside. A dewy look comes from plump, moisturized skin cells. Adding moisture through drinking water and using a high-quality moisturizer goes a long way in the right direction.

♦ Exfoliating your skin prompts a similar cell turnover to that of a pregnant woman, and it will keep you looking fresh and youthful.

♦ Change your diet. Don’t start eating for two when you’re not pregnant, that’s not going to help anyone. But do avoid all the junk food you would run away from if you were pregnant. Think fresh fruits and veggies, lean meats, and no alcohol or junk.

♦ Supplements can help you fill in gaps in your diet where you lack certain nutrients. Look for a great multivitamin to boost your health.

♦ Less is more. Pregnant women and new moms simply don’t have the time for that much effort, and it shows in the best way. Less makeup looks fresh, youthful, and natural.

Skincare routine for a new mom

You’ve had the baby, and suddenly you look and feel drained. Let’s be honest, you’re exhausted and moisturizing, exfoliating, and relaxing with a homemade face mask are the last things on your mind. 

All of that is true, but you still want a mommy and baby photo session that makes you look like a celeb. So how do you realistically manage a skincare routine with a brand new baby?

♦ Don’t give up on your skin. It’s important to remember that your skin is an organ with important functions. It’s not vanity; your body needs a skincare routine.

♦ Moisture and hydration are still essential to healthy skin. Try to create a routine of drinking water when nursing your baby and moisturizing at night and morning.

♦ A gentle cleanser will help you keep your skin clean, no matter how much or little makeup you’re wearing.

♦ Sunscreen should have been a top priority before, and it needs to remain high on your health regimen. The good news is, while you’re slathering your little one up with sunscreen, you’ll be reminded to use it yourself.

♦ You’ll be happy to know that if you’re following a breastfeeding diet, you’ll be doing your baby and your skin some good. You’re still nourishing baby, so put your diet at the top of your priority list.

♦ Meditation and peaceful time helps everyone’s sanity. Getting a minute to yourself may seem impossible, but everyone will benefit if you do. Learn some quick meditation tricks to help you de-stress throughout the day. Less stress also means healthier skin.

To put it simply

Even if the glow is gone, or it was never there in the first place, putting your skincare at the top of your priority list will help you look your best with a refreshing, youthful radiance. 

There are scientific reasons why people glow during pregnancy, but it quickly disappears after pregnancy. If you want to have a glow permanently, it’s crucial that you nourish and moisturize your skin regularly. 

Protecting your skin from the sun and other elements is also a vital step. New moms will find they hardly have any time to do the things they need to do, but skipping self-care is not the answer. You deserve to put your health and peace of mind at the top of your priority list.