This post will show you how to glow up physically and mentally with tips and tools.
Want to glow up? We got you!
This guide is going to show you how to glow up yourself physically and mentally to become your very best self.
If you aren’t sure what it means to “glow up,” here’s the deal: a glow up is essentially a transformation for the better. A glow up can refer to your appearance (like getting a haircut and flattering new makeup look) or can refer to your mindset (like becoming a more optimistic, positive person). It can also be both! The best glow ups are the ones that combine both an inside and an outside change for the better.
You can glow up at any time you choose, but considering that spring is starting soon, I think it’s an especially perfect time to glow up your life. The start of a new season is an ideal time to assess what areas in your life are in need of a glow up, set goals, and make changes for the better. Your future self will thank you!
Read on for the CF guide to glowing up your life, both physically and mentally. And be sure to save or pin this post, so you can come back to it for inspiration at any time.
Table of Contents
How to Glow Up Physically
When we think of a “glow up,” the first thing that often comes to mind is someone’s physical appearance: hair, makeup, body, outfits, etc.
There’s nothing wrong with wanting to improve yourself and your look, as long as it’s with the right intentions – meaning, do it for yourself and not anyone else! You should not feel pressure to change how you look for anyone else. A glow up is about becoming a better you, for you. Here are some ideas to get you started.
Glow Up Your Hair and Beauty
Because who doesn’t want clear skin, healthy hair, and whiter teeth? Try incorporating these tips and you’ll start feeling like “that girl” (you know, the aspirational TikTok aesthetic).
Skincare Routine
Creating a skincare routine that you stick to is not only going to improve how your skin looks and feels, but is also a form of self-care.
You can’t help but feel soothed when you put on a face mask or under-eye patches, and your skin is going to transform with proper care. You’ll need a cleanser, face cream, and daily sunscreen to start, and can add products like serums and masks in from there. The products you choose should be based on your skin type and your skin’s concerns, like clearing up acne or improving texture. You can even strive for glowing skin, for a real glow up!
Don’t forget to wash your face before bed, and always remove your makeup, too.
Summer Fridays Jet Lag Mask
A hydrating face mask with multiple benefits is a great product to add to your skincare routine. This multi-tasking face mask is for hydrating, calming, and nourishing your skin, and can be used as a mask and/or as a moisturizer. Hello, soft, smooth skin!
Tree Hut Body Scrub
You probably know about the importance of exfoliating your face, but don’t neglect your body. If you shave your legs, try exfoliating them prior to shaving for ultra-smooth results. A scented sugar scrub will help to remove dull, dry skin to reveal your skin’s natural glow.
Fenty Skin Body Cream
Moisturized skin is always in! Just like you follow a skincare routine for your face, you’ll want to do the same for your body. (More on creating a body skincare routine here.)
Moisturize your body after you shower with a luxe body cream like Fenty Skin’s Butta Drop Whipped Oil body cream. It will make you feel smooth, soft, and adds a bit of a gleam so that your legs look extra silky (especially after exfoliating and/or shaving!).
Crest Teeth Whitening Kit
A bright smile is a total confidence-booster, so glow up your grin with an at-home teeth whitening kit. These Crest Whitestrips are enamel-safe and going to give you pearly whites you’ll want to show off.
Briogeo Deep Conditioning Hair Mask
A reparative, deep conditioning hair mask is one of the best ways to improve your hair health and get strengthened, hydrated locks. You can incorporate this hair mask into your shower routine weekly, or use it in place of a conditioner.
This mask features clean ingredients including rosehip oil and B vitamins to hydrate and strengthen your hair, and is from Black-owned, woman-founded brand Briogeo.
You can also make your own hair masks at home using ingredients like coconut oil, jojoba oil, castor oil, and more. With at-home hair masks, coat your hair prior to showering and let the mask soak in for an hour or two. Then shower and see how much softer your hair will feel!
Signature Scent
A girl who is glowed up likely has a signature scent. So if you don’t already have a go-to fragrance, it’s time to find one!
Wearing a scent that you love will not only boost your mood, but will make you feel put together and become a part of your daily ritual when you’re getting ready for the day.
Glow Up Your Health & Body
Glowing up physically does not mean going on an unhealthy diet or working out like crazy. It just means making choices that are beneficial to your physical health and overall well-being. This may include making healthier food choices or becoming more active, but always with moderation and doing what feels right for you!
Moving Your Body
It’s no secret that staying active is fundamental to good health. Physical activity has so many proven benefits for the body, but also for the brain. Regular physical activity can improve your sleep quality, lessen anxiety, and contribute to your brain’s long-term health.
Consider trying a new workout class, going to the gym with a friend, or even just walking outside in nature. We are big fans of “hot girl walks,” which involve walking outside and listening to our favorite music and podcasts.
Bala Weighted Bangles
You can step up your walks or at-home workouts up with some weighted bangles which you can wear on your ankles or wrists. These 1-pound bangles come in a set of two and are available in a bunch of stylish colors like sand beige or pink, so you’ll feel like you’re wearing an accessory rather than a bulky workout contraption. A win-win!
Staying Hydrated
Are you drinking enough water on a daily basis? You’ll want to, considering it is crucial to good health and even has beauty benefits, like clearing acne and making your skin glow.
Water Jug
This 1-gallon water jug will help motivate you to stay hydrated throughout the day thanks to time markers that help track your water intake. It comes in a bunch of cute colors that add to its appeal, along with a built-in side handle and carrying strap for convenience.
By using this jug, you won’t have to constantly refill smaller bottles or wonder if you hit your water intake goal each day.
Eating Healthy Foods
No, this doesn’t mean going on a diet. This is about making more conscious food choices that will benefit your overall health.
Are you eating enough fruits and vegetables? Do you drink too much caffeine or soda? Try to evaluate where you can add more nutrients into your diet, and make some healthy swaps. With the right nutrition intake, you’ll start glowing from within. (Of course, if you have any questions or need help, be sure to consult a doctor or medical professional.)
Getting Enough Sleep
Sleep is another crucial factor to your well-being. Getting the proper amount of sleep will totally make you feel “glowed up” with increased energy, boosted immune system, better mood, and other benefits.
It can be tricky getting enough sleep as a college student, since pulling all-nighters is sometimes inevitable, but try to stick to a study schedule and not procrastinate so that you don’t have to lose Z’s.
Glow Up Your Workout Wardrobe
If you tend to throw on an old tee shirt and shorts every time you hit the gym, think about upgrading your workout clothes as part of your glow up.
I don’t know about you, but I feel 10x more motivated to exercise when I have a cute matching set to throw on for the gym. I love Set Active, Alo Yoga, and Girlfriend Collective for these.
And a good workout outfit wouldn’t be complete without cute and comfy socks. Bombas socks are the favorites of every influencer on your feed because they’re insanely cushiony, cute, and high-quality.
Glow Up Your Style
Looking to glow up your personal style? Consider giving your wardrobe a refresh by first going through your closet and getting rid of items that you no longer wear or need (which you can donate!). This will help you hone in on your personal style and have easier access to the items that you actually enjoy wearing.
If you want to switch up your personal style, head to Pinterest or Instagram for outfit inspiration and save photos of outfits that you’d like to emulate. This will help guide you when you’re shopping for new clothes, or style your current pieces in new ways.
For more tips on building the perfect wardrobe, check out this post.
How to Glow Up Mentally
There’s no limit to self-growth, so glowing up mentally is always a good idea. This involves improving your mindset so that you think, feel, and act like the best version of yourself.
Think about what kind of person you’d ideally like to be. Is she happier, less anxious, more confident? There are so many resources available to help you work towards and achieve the mindset you desire, from books to free podcasts. Dedicate time within your weekly schedule for self-growth just the way you would put aside time to study or hang out with friends, and you’re sure to see internal results.
Here are some more ideas on how to glow up mentally:
Journaling
Journaling is an incredible way to get in touch with your thoughts and feelings. It can help you work through your emotions in a healthy way and fosters self-growth through reflection.
There’s no “right” way to journal; you can journal about what’s going on in your life, write stories and lists, affirmations, or anything else that comes to mind.
If you don’t know where to start or feel like you use some help, consider a guided journal with prompts to get you going.
The Five Minute Journal
“The Five Minute Journal” is one of the most popular guided journals out there, and for good reason. It requires only five minutes of your time, making this a small commitment that you can easily incorporate into your daily life.
Start your day by filling out a short gratitude list, a daily affirmation, and a reflection on what would make your day great. Then before you go to bed, list out a few highlights from your day and something you learned.
Studies have shown that practicing gratitude can increase happiness and positivity, which is definitely a goal when it comes to glowing up.
Do It For Yourself Journal
Can we take a moment to admire how cool the aesthetic of this guided journal is? It’s not just cute, though; it features 75 prompts that encourage you to accomplish a goal you want to set for yourself.
Filled with inspiring quotes and colorful graphics, this journal is a great tool to motivate you as you glow up.
Reading Books
Reading is one of the best ways to glow up your mind and acquire new knowledge to improve your mindset. There are so many benefits to reading, from improving your vocabulary to enhancing your concentration, and of course, teaching you new things!
Check out some of our top glow up reading recommendations below.
“You Are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life” Book
The title of this #1 New York Times best-selling book says it all! If you want to improve your life and create a life that you love, you have to check out this book by Jen Sincero.
With tips, advice, and exercises to help you transform your mindset (and therefore, your life), this read will have you feeling ready to take on the world.
“Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones” Book
This book by James Clear will teach you how to form good habits, break bad habits, and overcome lack of motivation or willpower.
Glowing your life up mentally is about cultivating a healthy, happy mindset and creating good habits is a great way to get there.
“101 Essays That Will Change the Way You Think” Book
This book has been all over “that girl” TikTok, so it’s glow up-approved. Within these 101 essays, you’ll discover insights and advice to improve your mental health – and life as a whole.
What do you think of our guide to glowing up?
Did you find our glow up guide helpful? Will you try any of these tips or have a tip you’d like to share? Leave a comment and let us know!