How To Glow Up: 20 Glow-Up Tips That Actually Work! (2024)

Hello Gorgeous!

Welcome to the ultimate guide on how to achieve a glow-up! Whether you’re looking for a dramatic change or simply hoping to boost your confidence, incorporating these glow-up tips into your routine will help you radiate positivity and feel like your absolute best self.

What Does It Mean to “Glow Up”?

First things first, let’s define what a “glow-up” means.

A “glow-up” refers to the process of transforming oneself physically, mentally, and/or emotionally to become the best version of oneself. This could involve changing one’s appearance, mindset, habits, or all of the above.

A glow-up often results in a significant transformation on both the inside and outside, leading to an improvement in one’s physical appearance, mental health, and overall self-confidence. It also creates a ripple effect that touches every aspect of your life from emotional well-being to improving your relationships with others.

The good news is that achieving a glow-up is not just for the few with perfect genes or endless cash for expensive products or surgical procedures.

In fact, a significant part of glowing up involves simple changes and habits that anyone can adopt.

This process also encourages personal growth by stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing new experiences that enrich your life.

Why Should Women Want to “Glow Up”?

You may be wondering, “Why should I even bother with this whole glow-up thing?” Well, the answer is simple: you deserve to feel good about yourself and confident in your own skin.

As women, we often put ourselves last on the list of priorities and neglect our own needs. We constantly compare ourselves to others and strive for an unattainable level of perfection. This can lead to feelings of self-doubt, low self-esteem, and overall dissatisfaction with ourselves.

However, by prioritizing your own well-being and focusing on personal growth, you can break free from these harmful patterns and truly thrive in all aspects of your life—leading to massive improvements in how you look and feel.

A glow-up is not about conforming to society’s standards or trying to impress anyone else. It’s about taking control of your own happiness, being comfortable in your own skin, and becoming the best version of yourself for YOU.

Keep reading for a ton of actionable tips and advice on how to achieve a glow-up that is personal, fulfilling, and most importantly,achievable.

These are my personal tips and should not be considered professional medical advice. Please consult with your doctor before starting any new workout regimen or making any dietary changes.

Note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase. This is at no added cost to you.

Ready, gorgeous? 🥰

Glow-Up Tips for Physical Appearance

Transforming your look is easier than you think. With the right strategies, making changes to enhance your physical appearance can have a dramatic impact on how you feel and present yourself.

#1 – Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

Did you know that drinking enough water is the best way to improve your skin’s hydration and give it a natural glow? Drinking water is a simple first step to boost your glow-up journey. It keeps your skin hydrated, making it look and feel more supple and radiant. Hydration helps in flushing out toxins from the body, which can reduce blemishes and enhance the overall skin glow.

Try carrying a water bottle wherever you go to ensure you drink plenty of water and meet your daily water intake goal.

Making small changes like choosing water over sugary drinks can make a significant difference in how your skin looks and feels. To add some variety, you can infuse your water with fruits like lemon or cucumber for an extra dose of hydration filled with flavor.

This easy switch not only benefits your skin but supports good health overall by keeping you hydrated throughout the day.

#2 – Get Adequate Sleep

Getting enough sleep plays a crucial role in your glow-up journey. Adequate rest at night helps your skin repair itself from daily stress and damage. Your body boosts blood flow to the skin while you sleep, which means you wake up with a healthier glow.

Missing out on those vital hours can lead to dull skin and dark circles under your eyes.

A good night’s rest also supports emotional health by reducing stress levels and enhancing mental well-being. It gives your mind the break it needs to handle emotions better, making you feel more positive throughout the day.

Prioritize getting seven to nine hours of sleep each night as a great way to support both your appearance and overall mood.

💡Tip: Limit social media and screen time before bed to ensure you wake up refreshed.

Related:85 Evening Affirmations for a Peaceful Night’s Sleep

#3 – Have a HealthySkin Care Routine

Healthy skin is beautiful skin. And a good skin care routine plays a crucial role in achieving and maintaining healthy, beautiful, glowing skin. Here are the steps to take to create a new skincare routine that works for you:

1. Start with a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and makeup from your face. Choose a cleanser that matches your skin type for the best results.
2. Use a toner to balance the pH level of your skin and remove any remaining impurities. Opt for alcohol-free formulas to avoid drying out your skin.
3. Apply a serum or facial oil rich in active ingredients like hyaluronic acid for hydration or vitamin C for brightening effects to hydrate and nourish the skin. Serums penetrate deeply, delivering benefits right where you need them.
4. Follow with a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer to lock in hydration and protect your skin from environmental stressors.
5. SPF is your best friend—use sunscreen containing at least SPF 30 every day to protect your skin from the harmful UV rays that can cause premature aging (yes, even if you havemelanated skin).
6. Include an exfoliation routine at least two to three times a week to slough off dead skin cells and reveal brighter, smoother skin underneath. (I love using my shower gloves and African Bath Net for exfoliating my body in the shower.) Regularly removing dead cells ensures that your skincare products penetrate deeper and work more effectively.
   💡Tip: After exfoliating the heels of your feet, use shea butter followed by socks overnight for extra soft feet in the morning!
7. Pay attention to the eye area with eye masks or a dedicated eye cream that tackles issues like dark circles, puffiness, or fine lines. Always be gentle when applying skincare products around this sensitive area to prevent irritation.
8. A weekly face mask catered towards your particular concerns (hydration, pore-clearing, firming, etc.) can give your skin a much-needed boost.
9. Don’t forget about your lips! Keep them soft and supple with an occasional exfoliating lip scrub. Follow with a lip balm that hydrates and protects your lips from dryness and cracking. Look for products with natural ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, or honey for their healing properties.

#4 – Drink Beauty Smoothies

Beauty smoothies are one of the best ways to feed your skin from the inside out. They are a great replacement for junk food and pack a punch of vitamins and minerals that lead to glowing, healthy skin. Here are a few ingredients you can add to your smoothie for an extra glow boost:

1. Use ingredients rich in vitamin C. Oranges, strawberries, and kiwi boost collagen production for firmer skin.
2. Add spinach or kale for a hit of antioxidants. These greens fight off harmful free radicals and reduce inflammation.
3. Include healthy fats like avocados or chia seeds. They moisturize the skin from within, keeping it supple and hydrated.
4. Sprinkle in some turmeric powder for its anti-inflammatory benefits. This spice helps clear up your complexion.
5. Don’t forget about hydration. Adding coconut water or cucumber gives your beauty smoothie hydrating properties, making sure your skin stays quenched.
6. Berries are your friends for their anti-aging properties. Blueberries and raspberries protect the skin against the signs of aging.
7. For an extra glow, blend in some nuts like almonds or walnuts which have essential fatty acids that contribute to radiant skin.
8. A scoop of protein powder can support cell repair and growth—important for maintaining a youthful appearance.
9. Pump it up with pumpkin seeds or flaxseeds for zinc; this mineral helps fight acne by controlling oil production.
10. Customize your smoothie with probiotics like yogurt or kefir to promote a healthy gut, which often reflects positively on your skin.

Beauty smoothies are an easy way to include more healthy foods in your diet that directly benefit your overall appearance and skin health. Incorporate these delicious drinks into your daily routine as a fun way to work towards a completely new look with glowing results!

#5 – Perfect Your Eyebrow Shape

Your eyebrows can transform your overall look by framing your face in just the right way. Start by finding out what shape works best for your face type, then shape your brows regularly with tweezers or waxing to maintain a clean and defined shape.

Use a spoolie brush daily to groom them into place and fill in sparse areas with a brow pencil shade that matches your hair color closely for a fuller look.

And let me let you in on a little secret—instead of daily brow grooming,permanent makeup techniqueslike microblading, microshading, combo, or ombre brows are great for those looking for a long-lasting, low-maintenance solution.

Well-defined eyebrows can make all the difference in enhancing your natural beauty and giving you the perfect finishing touch to any look. They also influence how facial symmetry is perceived.

I had combo brows done 4 years ago and I’ve only needed one touch-up since then. It’s easily been one of the best investments I’ve made on my personal journey to glowing up and self improvement.

Keeping your brows well-groomed is an essential step towards achieving that perfect day glow look without overwhelming effort.

#6 – Detox Teas

Similar to beauty smoothies, another great place to find beauty benefits is through detox teas. These beverages claim to flush out toxins and support a healthy glow from the inside out. Here are how detox teas can play a part in your glow-up journey:

1. Boost metabolism:Certain ingredients in detox teas can kickstart your metabolism. This helps in burning calories faster, contributing to weight loss and a more toned figure.
2. Improve digestion:Drinking these teas regularly can aid in better digestion by helping the body eliminate waste more efficiently. This can lead to less bloating and a flatter stomach.
3. Enhance skin health:Detox teas often contain antioxidants that fight free radicals, reducing inflammation and promoting clearer skin.
4. Increase energy levels:The natural herbs found in these teas can rejuvenate your body, giving you more energy throughout the day without the crash associated with caffeine from coffee.
5. Support liver function:Your liver plays a crucial role in detoxifying your body. Ingredients like milk thistle in some detox teas help support liver health and its cleansing processes.
6. Hydrate your body:Drinking detox tea is also a good way to keep hydrated, which is vital for maintaining elastic and moisturized skin.
7. Reduce stress:Certain herbal components have calming effects that can help manage stress levels, leading to improved mental state and fewer stress-induced breakouts.
8. Promote healthy sleep patterns:A good night’s rest is essential for a true glow-up. Some detox teas include herbs known to support better sleep quality, allowing your skin to heal and rejuvenate overnight.

Incorporating detox teas into your routine might make a huge difference in how you feel and look. Do your research and choose high-quality teas suited for your needs andconsult with your healthcare providerbefore introducing detox teas or any other new products into your diet.

#7 – Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is another important part of your glow-up journey. Bright, white teeth can instantly make you look healthier and more radiant.

You don’t need expensive treatments to start either; simple at-home whitening strips or baking soda-based toothpaste can make a noticeable difference. Hydrogen peroxide, activated charcoal, and coconut oil pulling are also popular natural alternatives for brightening your smile.

Avoid smoking and consistent use of staining drinks like coffee and red wine as well to help maintain your smile.

For those looking for quicker results, professional whitening procedures offer an immediate transformation but always ensure such procedures are safe for your enamel before undergoing any treatment.

Don’t forget to also practice good oral hygiene, such as brushing twice a day, flossing, and usingmouthwash.

Regular check-ups with your dentist will also ensure any deeper issues are caught early and treated properly.

(I have sensitive teeth andthis brandof teeth whitening strips along with thisteeth whitening lighthave worked great for my DIY teeth whitening treatments at home.)

#8 – Get Regular Manicures and Pedicures

Another simple way to elevate your appearance is by regularly getting manicures and pedicures. Not only do they keep your nails looking clean and polished, but they also offer a relaxing self-care experience.

Regular manicures and pedicures also boost blood circulation in your feet and hands.

You canDIY at hometo save money or treat yourself to a professional salon experience. Just make sure to keep your tools clean if going the DIY at-home route, and never hesitate to speak up if you have any concerns during the service if going to a salon.

To take it a step further, consider experimenting with different colors and styles for your nails. Whether you prefer classic French tips, or bold and trendy designs, your weekly mani/pedi pampering is the perfect time for playing around with your nail look and experimenting with your personal style.

#9 – Master Your Makeup

Mastering makeup techniques can transform your look and boost your confidence. Explore different looks to understand what complements your face shape. YouTube tutorials and online resources are free and easy ways to pick up valuable tips and tricks for beginners.

1. Choose the right foundation match for your skin tone to create a flawless base. Test shades on your jawline, not your hand, for a perfect match.
2. Learn contouring basics to highlight your best features. A darker shade shapes areas you want to recede, while a lighter shade emphasizes features you wish to highlight.
3. Practice eye makeup that suits your eye shape. Whether you have almond, round, or hooded eyes, specific techniques can enhance them.
4. Apply blushaccording to your face shape. Different face shapes require different blush placements for the most flattering effect.
5. Experiment with lip colors that suit your skin tone and personality. From bold reds to subtle nudes, find what makes you feel confident.
6. Set your makeup with a good-quality setting spray or powder for long-lasting wear throughout the day.
7. Last but not least, make sure to consistently clean your makeup brushes to avoid buildup of bacteria and other irritants on your face.

You might also enjoy: How to Become an Elegant and Classy Woman: 10 Elegance Tips

#10 – Facial Massages

Facial massages work wonders for your skin and overall glow. They boost blood circulation, which helps nourish skin cells by bringing them more oxygen and carrying away waste. This process can make your skin look brighter and feel firmer.

Use gentle upward strokes with your fingers or afacial massage toollike the one in the gua sha tutorial below. Regular facial massages also promote collagen production, reducing wrinkles and making the skin appear more youthful.

Incorporating facial massages into your beauty routine doesn’t just benefit your skin; it’s also a great way to relax and reduce stress. Stress often shows on our faces, causing wrinkles and dullness.

By taking a few minutes each day to massage your face, you’re not only improving how it looks but how you feel inside. It’s a simple step that can lead to noticeable changes in both appearance and well-being, giving you good reason to smile at the reflection in the mirror.

Lifestyle Changes for a Glow Up

Lifestyle changes can supercharge your glow-up journey. Here are some recommendations for lifestyle changes you can make to help you achieve your ultimate glow-up goals:

#11 – Reduce or Eliminate Your Sugar and Dairy Intake

Reducing or eliminating your sugar and dairy intake can lead to clearer, healthier skin and even a more toned body.

Sugar can lead to breakouts and dull skin, while dairy might trigger acne in some individuals.

In addition, consuming large amounts of these two food groups can significantly contribute to inflammation in the body.

Opt for healthier options like natural sweeteners and plant-based milks, or simply reduce your overall intake of sugar and dairy for a noticeable difference in your energy levels and appearance.

#12 – Adopt a Healthy, Balanced Diet

A healthy, balanced diet is key to achieving a glow-up.

Fill your plate with nutrient-dense foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.

Upping your protein intake can helpboost metabolism and also aid in weight loss.

Protein is also essential for healthy hair and nails.

Aim to incorporate lean protein sources such as chicken and fish into your meals.

Not only will this provide your body with the necessary vitamins and minerals for glowing skin and hair, but it will also help maintain a healthy weight and boost energy levels.

A healthy diet also reduces the risk of chronic diseases, and enhances physical appearance by promoting healthy skin.

Don’t restrict yourself too much though. I definitely believe in indulging in your favorite treats from time to time—everything in moderation.

I’ve lost over 100 pounds over the past 5 years and have maintained my weight by following a balanced diet and still allowing myself the occasional indulgence.

Remember, balance is key!

Eating well is a form of self-improvement that contributes significantly to your glow up.

You might also enjoy: How to Set Intentions That Will Help You Manifest Your Dreams and Create a Fulfilling Life

#13 – Exercise Regularly

Along with a healthy diet, regular exercise is crucial for achieving a glow-up.

Exercise boosts blood flow, which helps nourish skin cells and keep them vital. It also helps remove toxins from the body and promotes a healthy, radiant complexion.

Not only does exercise benefit your physical health and physical appearance, it also has numerous mentalhealth benefits such as reducing stress and improving self-confidence and mood.

Find an activity that you enjoy such as running, dancing, strength training, or something more low-impact like pilates, and make it a part of your weekly routine.

Even something as simple as a 10-minute walk after eating can help to reduce bloating and make a big difference.

Moreover, exercise plays a significant role in improving posture. Activities like strength training, yoga, and pilates focus on strengthening core muscles and improving flexibility, both of which are essential for maintaining good posture. (When you stand taller, you glow brighter🌟).

Exercise doesn’t have to be intense or time-consuming either. The key is consistency and finding something that you genuinely enjoy.

Regular physical activity will not only help you feel and look your best, but it also helps in managing negative emotions and keeping you grounded in the present moment.

You might also enjoy: Free 75 Soft Challenge Tracker Printable-New!

#14 – Practice Pillowcase Hygiene

Changing your pillowcase frequently plays a crucial role in your skin’s health. Your pillowcase can harbor oils, dirt, and sweat from your skin and hair, leading to acne outbreaks and irritation.

Try swapping out your pillowcase every week to minimize exposure to these impurities. Opting for a silk or satin pillowcase can also reduce friction against your skin, preventing wrinkles and hair breakage.

Maintaining clean bedding is a direct investment in your glow-up journey.

This simple switch not only elevates the hygiene of where you rest but actively supports the improvement of both your skin’s texture and hair’s health.

Remember to wash your face before bed and change into clean pajamas as well for optimal nighttime skincare.

#15 – Always Smell Good

Smelling good can have a positive impact on your mood, confidence, and overall impression.

Experimenting with different scents helps you discover a signature scent that resonates with your personality and mood.I personally lovegourmand scents!

Find a fragrance or scent that you love and make it a part of your daily routine.

Whether it’s a perfume, body spray, essential oil, lotion, or a combination of all of the above, wearing a pleasant scent can instantly boost your mood and make you feel more put together.

Related: How to Smell Amazing All Day Long: The Ultimate Guide to Smelling Irresistible

Start by sampling a variety of fragrances, focusing on how they change throughout the day since body chemistry can alter their aroma.

Take note of how each fragrance makes you feel and select one that complements not only your skin but also your overall vibe.

Choosing a scent that feels right for you is similar to picking out wardrobe pieces that showcase your style. Consider what occasions you’ll wear the perfume for—whether everyday use or special events.

Learn to layer fragrancesfor a longer-lasting scent that’s uniquely yours.

You might also enjoy: How to Live a Soft Life Plus 40 Soft Life Affirmations

#16 – Manage Your Stress

Managing stress plays a crucial role in your glow-up journey.

Stress can lead to various negative effects on your physical appearance, such as acne breakouts, hair loss, and dull skin.

Simple practices can make a big difference, like setting aside time for activities you enjoy or finding a safe space where you can unwind and reflect at the end of the day.

To keep stress at bay, find healthy ways to cope with it. This could include activities like meditation, yoga, spending time in nature, journaling, or talking to a therapist.

It’s also important to prioritize self-care and take breaks when needed. Establishing boundaries is also key to reducing stress. Learn to say no to tasks that don’t serve your well-being or add unnecessary stress into your life.

By managing stress and practicing self-care, you’ll not only improve your physical appearance, but also boost your overall well-being and happiness.

Related: Nurturing Yourself in Times of Stress: 14 Calming Techniques

Emotional and Mental Glow-Up

Lastly, but certainly not least, don’t forget about your emotional and mental well-being in your glow-up journey.

It’s important to prioritize self-love, self-acceptance, and positive energy.

#17 – Surround Yourself with Positive Energy

The people and environment we surround ourselves with can greatly impact our mental and emotional state.

To truly glow up, make it a priority to surround yourself with positive vibes and positive energy. This could mean spending time with positive people who uplift and support you, finding a new hobby or activity that brings you joy, or even decluttering your physical space to create a more peaceful and organized home that is your safe space.

It’s okay to distance yourself from negative influences and toxic relationships. Your well-being comes first.

Surrounding yourself with positive energy will not only improve your mood and outlook on life, but also help you grow and reach your full potential. Surround yourself with supportive and uplifting people who encourage you to be your best self.

#18 – Build Your Confidence

Building your confidence is a key part of any glow-up journey.

This involves embracing new things and letting go of bad things (and people!) that weigh down your self-esteem. Start by setting small, achievable goals for yourself in areas where you feel less confident.

Achieving these goals step by step will boost your confidence over time.

Also, practice positive self-talk every day; replace negative thoughts with empowering daily affirmations about your worth and capabilities.

Engage in activities that make you feel good about yourself, whether it’s picking up a new hobby or mastering a new skill that you’ve always wanted to master.

Example: Maybe you decide it’s time to finally get serious about learning that new language you’ve always wanted to and decide to be consistent with Duolingo.🦉

Remember, confidence doesn’t grow overnight—it’s built through consistent actions and fostering a positive mindset toward self-improvement.

#19 – Cultivate an Attitude of Gratitude

Cultivating an attitude of gratitude is like adding fuel to your glow-up journey. It’s about recognizing and appreciating the good things in your life, big or small. When you make gratitude a habit, you start to see the silver linings even on cloudy days.

Think of it as a mindset shift. Instead of focusing on what’s missing or going wrong, you flip the script and acknowledge what’s going right.

It’s about shifting focus from what’s missing in your life to appreciating what’s present. It is a simple yet powerful tool to invite positivity and abundance into your life.

Start a gratitude journal and make it a habit to jot down three things you’re thankful for each day.

These moments of gratitude pave the way for a happier, more content version of yourself. A heart full of gratitude is essential for a true glow-up.

#20 – Practice Self-Compassion

And finally, perhaps the most important step of all is practicing self-compassion.

When you make a mistake or fall short of your glow-up expectations, instead of beating yourself up about it, practice self-compassion.

Glowing up isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress and growth.

Embrace your imperfections as part of your unique journey towards becoming your best self and keep pushing forward.

You might also enjoy: Level Up Your Life: How to Invest in Yourself as a High-Value Woman

Conclusion

Glowing up takes more than a few quick fixes; it requires smart choices and consistency.

It’s also a continuous process—it’s not something you achieve once and then forget about. You should be consistently evolving, learning, making positive changes, and growing into the best version of yourself.

Follow these glow-up tips and make them a part of your daily routine, and you’ll be well on your way to becoming the confident, radiant person you’ve always wanted to be. 💕

Until next time,

xoxo