Louise 
The Second Trimester Glow – Myth or Reality?
You’ve made it through the rollercoaster of the first trimester (farewell, nausea 👋), and now you’re officially in your second trimester—the so-called “honeymoon phase” of pregnancy. This is often the time when many experience the second trimester glow, feeling energised and at ease.
People may start saying things like: “You’re glowing!” or “Pregnancy suits you!” But is the “second trimester glow” really a thing—or just something people say when they don’t know what else to comment on?
Let’s break it down and examine the second trimester glow closely.
What Is the Pregnancy Glow?
The famous “pregnancy glow” usually refers to a combination of:
Clearer, brighter, more radiant skin
Rosy cheeks
Shiny hair
That je ne sais quoi (aka you look different but I can’t put my finger on it)
But while some pregnant people genuinely feel and look amazing during the second trimester, for others, it’s… not quite so glamorous.
Why It Can Be Real
There are some biological reasons why you might actually be glowing right now:
1. Increased Blood Flow
Your blood volume increases by up to 50% during pregnancy—and by the second trimester, that boost is in full effect. This can give your skin a naturally flushed, rosy look (like you’ve just had a brisk walk… even if you’ve just walked to the fridge).
2. Hormonal Shifts
Oestrogen and progesterone levels are higher, which can sometimes lead to brighter, clearer skin and fuller hair. Some people notice their complexion improves and their hair becomes thicker and shinier during this second trimester glow.
3. Oil Production
Your sebaceous (oil) glands can become more active, giving skin a dewy appearance. For some, that’s a radiant glow. For others, it’s pregnancy acne. (We’ll get to that.)
Why It’s Not a Reality for Everyone
As with most pregnancy experiences, the glow isn’t universal. In fact, many second-trimester symptoms might feel decidedly un-glowy:
1. Pregnancy Acne
Around 1 in 2 pregnant people in the UK experience skin breakouts during pregnancy—especially in the second trimester. That extra oil production we mentioned? It can clog pores and lead to spots instead of a glow.
2. Pigmentation Changes
Melasma (aka “the mask of pregnancy”) is a condition where darker patches develop on your face, especially around the cheeks, forehead and upper lip. It’s totally harmless, but it might not feel very glowy.
3. Sweating and Heat Flashes
More blood flow + a faster metabolism + hormonal surges = a hotter body. Some people find they sweat more and feel warmer, especially at night. Not exactly the vibe when you’re trying to feel fresh-faced.
4. Still Tired. Still Achy.
You might be sleeping better than in the first trimester, but you’re still growing a whole human. Fatigue, back pain and round ligament aches are still on the table.
Honest Midwife Thoughts
The “second trimester glow” is half biology, half myth. For some, it’s a real and welcome perk. For others, it’s just another thing you’re “meant” to feel but… don’t. And that’s okay.
Whether you’re glowing, breaking out, sweating buckets or doing a mix of all three—you’re doing brilliantly. Growing a baby is no small feat, and you don’t have to look a certain way to be doing it well.
What You Can Do for Healthy Skin & Hair
If you’re looking to boost your glow (or at least feel a bit more like yourself), try:
Hydrating regularly – water really does help
Wearing SPF – especially important if you’re noticing pigmentation and experiencing the second trimester glow.
Gentle skincare – stick with pregnancy-safe ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide
Eating well – fresh fruits, leafy greens and healthy fats can support skin from the inside out
Resting when you can – because tired = dull skin for most of us
Always check with your midwife or GP before starting any new skincare products, especially those with active ingredients.
Glow or No Glow – You’re Doing Great
The “pregnancy glow” isn’t a measure of how well you’re doing—it’s just one of many possible side effects of growing a baby. So if you’re hearing it, enjoy it. If you’re not feeling it, don’t worry about the second trimester glow.
Your glow might not be visible, but it’s there—in the work your body’s doing, in the love you’re growing, and in every kick, roll, and hiccup inside your belly.
✨ Keep going, mama. You’ve got this.
