How to Glow Up: 7 Achievable Ways To Unlock Your Hidden Potential
Are you looking for ways to look better, feel better and look more better? If so, you’re in the right place!
Here’s how I’m structuring this guide. If you don’t feel like reading through all of the text, I feel ya! Just scroll down to the 1-minute summary and you’ll find a lot of the information condensed in there. (In fact, I recommend reading the 1-minute summary first)!
I’m gonna be honest. The beginning of the article is to rank higher on Google (so a lot of gibberish) and I don’t want to waste your time, so if you just want to get into the meat and skip all of the appetizers, click here.
1-MINUTE SUMMARY...
Don’t have time to read through the whole thing? Here’s a quick 1-minute summary on how to glow up in 7 achievable ways.
- Exercise for 30 minutes daily.
- Engage in a muscle building fitness plan (making one for free right now)
- Sleep 7-9 hours nightly.
- Drink at least 32-48 oz of water daily.
- Enjoy balanced meals, limit junk food.
- Opt for protein-rich foods.
- Maintain daily hygiene routines.
- Use gentle skin cleansers and embrace a signature scent.
- Regular grooming: trim nails, cut hair.
- Choose suitable products for your skin type.
- Always use sunscreen and moisturize.
- Invest in high quality skincare products (however, this doesn't mean buying every expensive product!)
- Invest in quality basics and accessorize. A simple bracelet, a ring and a necklace makes a big difference.
- Update wardrobe seasonally, develop personal style.
- Practice active listening and good posture.
- Build authentic relationships, network genuinely.
- Practice affirmations to build self-confidence.
- Work on self-improvement, whether at the gym or learning new skills.
Specifically, the term “glow up” is used to describe someone’s transformation in improving their inner and outer appearance, whether that’s physical health or mental health.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll be showing you the best ways on how you can get the glow up that you’ve always wanted and become the best version of yourself!
NOTE: I did a lot of research, experimented with many methods, and what I will be sharing will be based on what works for me.
I just want to clarify overnight glow ups do not happen. It’s a consistent process and can sometimes be challenging.
That’s why I want to make it as easy as possible for you to get started!
From skincare and fitness to more advanced techniques like mewing, there are a lot of ways to improve, even if you think you already know what to do.
What Is A Glow Up
However, it can also take a couple of weeks, depending on how consistent you are and how your body responds to the changes.
Glow ups happen when someone changes their eating habits, fashion style, hairstyle, exercise, make-up, and skincare routines.
A successful glow up is usually very rewarding as you’ll feel more confident and have a better mental health.
How To Glow Up
So how exactly do you kick-start your glow up journey?
First set goals. Not just any goals. Make sure they are clear, achievable, and measurable. These could range from not stuttering as much when talking to others, less acne on the face or even benching 180lbs.
Remember: The more specific your goals are, the more likely you are going to be successful.
When I first started in my junior year of high school, my goal was to consistently hit the gym for at least 45 minutes every day. I later found out that training every day wasn’t optimal as my body needed to rest to repair and grow.
Once you have a goal, your next step should be adopting a balanced diet (a more in-depth section on what you should eat can be found here):
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Lean proteins
- Whole grains
This will nourish your skin from within. While it’s not necessary to go on an intensive diet, being mindful of your intake and avoiding certain foods can help with your progress.
A Few Things To Keep In Mind
Regular exercise not only keeps your body in shape but also boosts your skin health by improving blood circulation.
Remember: Minor changes, like a fresh haircut or a wardrobe update, can go a long way in enhancing your confidence.
Personal Development For Inner Growth
In terms of inner glow up, focus on personal development and mental well-being. Picking up yoga or meditation into your daily routine can help you cultivate a positive mindset, reduce stress, and enhance your overall mental health.
This may seem challenging and a lot to undertake, but one effective strategy I use is to take 5 minutes every morning to plan my day out and envision the things I’ll be doing with my eyes closed.
This isn’t traditional “meditation”, but it is a strategy that works for me.
Consistency Is Key!
Remember, a glow up is a marathon, not a sprint. It takes time and consistency on a regular basis, but the rewards are well worth it. .
You’ll notice not just improvements in your appearance but also a boost in self-esteem and personal growth
Many of the tips provided don’t need much effort, and some of them are effortless. What’s hard is staying consistent and doing the routine daily.
If you’re planning a summer glow up, I’ve got you covered!
Here’s a FREE detailed routine to kick-start your glowing journey! CLICK HERE
7 Tips On How To Glow Up
Prioritize Health and Fitness
Starting with the foundations. If you don’t have a healthy body, no matter how much you spend on skincare or other products, you won’t look 100 percent.
Prioritizing your health and overall fitness not only facilitates your glow up process but also extends the longevity of your body.
This is true regardless of your gender.
Social Media and Mental Health: My Personal Journey
Mental health is not something you should skim through.
Growing up, I did not believe in mental health / emotional health, or rather didn’t think it existed. I was bullied in middle school, with people calling me names and such, but that didn’t impact my mind much.
The Impact of High School and Dating
What started my belief in mental health is when I started exploring the dating world and high school itself.
Everywhere I looked, social media was filled with perfectly posed photos. It seemed like everyone was happy all the time.
I couldn’t help but wonder: was I the only one who felt alone?
The Ghosting That Changed Me
In my sophomore year, I experienced something. A feeling that I would never want to feel again. I’d been dating a girl for a while, and everything seemed perfect. And then, out of the blue, I got ghosted.
That’s when the negative self-talk began. Suddenly, my mind was filled with thoughts like:
“I wish I had a better body”
“My forehead is too big”
These are just a few statements that I would constantly hammer myself with. Looking back, I’m glad it happened to me. I can now teach and show you that it’s possible to get a stronger mental, a better body, and an optimistic future.
If you want to read more about my past, take a look at my story!
Transformative Power Of The Gym
Going to the gym changed me. Not only did I see my physical appearance drastically improve, but I also felt improvements in how I’d feel. If you don’t hit the gym, now is your time to start!
Going to the gym doesn’t necessarily mean “getting big or bulky”. It helps you nurture a healthier body.
However, please know that you don’t need to go to the gym as long as you are doing some sort of cardio and maintaining a cardio deficit.
Limiting Social Media
Limiting your social media usage can only be advantageous.
I’ve set a 15-minute timer across all my social media platforms so that when I’m on YouTube for more than 15 minutes, it’ll lock me out of the platform.
“I know it’s hard, but trust me, it’s better to go in the sun and talk to people.”
I’ll be writing a more in-depth post on social media usage. Stay tuned!
Regular Exercise and a Good Night’s Sleep
Exercising for at least 30 minutes a day not only aids weight management, mood enhancement, and better sleep but also contributes to a healthier and more “glowy” appearance.
If you aim to burn fat (losing weight and burning fat are two different things – more on losing weight below) and achieve a leaner body, then cardio will be your new best friend. Whether that’s:
- Running/jogging for 30+ minutes
- Cycling
- Swimming
Strength Training For Fat Loss
Incorporating strength training into your weekly workouts is also advantageous. A lot of people shy away from strength training for fear of “getting too big.” Sure, it’s one way to build muscle mass, and that’s how some people bulk up, however, scientific research also shows it has advantages for fat loss.
When you build lean muscle, your resting metabolic rate increases, which means you burn more calories (simply put, your muscles burn calories 24/7!
Meaning, the more muscle you have, the more calories you burn). A great way to prevent gaining “excessive” muscle mass is by using lighter weights and doing higher repetitions (15-20 reps).
Get Your Beauty Sleep
Equally important is getting enough sleep. It’s not called beauty sleep for nothing!
This is the easiest way/step in this guide! You do not need to do anything and just sleep. While you sleep, your body repairs cells and rejuvenates your skin.
Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night as you don’t want to have a crash in your energy levels early in the day.
I function best on 7-8 hours with a cold shower in the morning (I do this daily). I use cold water to wake myself up and there are scientifically proven benefits of taking cold showers, with some research pointing to weight loss and increased metabolism.
Eat Healthily and Be Cognizant
I’ve got great news for those who don’t want to go on a special diet…
Because you don’t need to!
Dieting can speed up the glow up process, but it’s not necessary.
The important thing is to be aware of what kinds of food you’re putting into your body and understand the potential negative effects.
Limit junk food consumption to at most once per week and incorporate more protein-dense foods such as eggs, chicken, almonds, milk, etc. Here’s a list of healthy foods you want to incorporate into your diet.
Healthy Foods List
Here’s a list of healthy foods you want to incorporate into your diet:
- Fatty fish: salmon is great, but if you don’t like seafood, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds provide similar nutritional benefits
- Avocadoes: great for the skin!
- Berries: high in antioxidants and vitamins that can help skin inflammation
- Tomatoes
- Broccoili
- Bell peppers: similar to berries, they are high in antioxidants
To reiterate, you do not need to go on a diet. However, you do need to make healthy habits and start eating healthy foods while limiting your junk food.
Hydrate… Hydrate… HYDRATE!
Drinking plenty of water can be only beneficial for your health – just be mindful not to overdo it.
Many bodily processes require water to function optimally. Staying hydrated and drinking enough water also benefits your skin!
Grooming and Practicing Good Hygiene
Grooming and good hygiene are indispensable to your glow up journey. Please shower daily, especially after your workouts! Men should consider proper shaving and grooming habits, while women might explore makeup products that complement their skin type and natural features.
Hair Care Essentials and Comparison
Take care and condition your hair regularly.
Using a hair mask is an option, however, I’ve stuck with oils instead. I’ve tried argan oil, castor oil to coconut oil. I experimented with all types of oils.
Here’s a graphic of oils and their benefits.
- Castor Oil: Generally used for hair growth. Great for thickening hair. Would recommend if you have thinning hair or hair loss.
- Coconut Oil: The one that I use and recommend for everyone. I love the deepening characteristics of this oil, as my hair got alot softer and better after using coconut oil. Adding on to that, it’s only $8 (smile, because I’m a broken college student)!
- Argan Oil: I had very coarsed hair, so I started out with argan oil and then coconut oil. If you have very coarse and damaged hair, I would recommend this to you.
- Avocado Oil: Just stick to the three options above 🙂
Out of all the oils I’ve used, I’ve stuck to coconut oil the longest as it provides what I need. It moisturizes my hair deeply while taking good care of my scalp.
Oral Hygiene: You Don't Want To Smell Bad
Make sure you brush daily, floss at least every other day, and consider teeth whitening options if necessary.
Taking care of your oral hygiene is also crucial – a bright and white smile can dramatically enhance your appearance and boost your confidence.
If you’re like me, who brushes their teeth every day but still gets some yellow stains, you’re going to love what’s next.
If whitening strips aren’t doing the job, you should try custom whitening trays. They’ve been proven to be more effective, long-lasting, and cause less irritation to your gums.
You could go for a custom-fit one from your dentist, but that would cost way more than needed.
I usually use a moldable teeth tray and just buy a whitening gel. Doing this 2 times a week proved to be highly effective for me.
Manicures, Pedicures, Manscaping
Furthermore, personal hygiene extends from your hands to your feet, including your private areas. Regular manicures and pedicures, either done professionally or at home, can keep your nails healthy and neat.
I never believed in manscaping, but I’m glad I tried it.
Not only does trimming your pubic hair help with body odor and reduce bacteria, but it also boosts confidence.
The same thing goes for girls, trimming your pubic hair reduces bacteria, increases comfort, and prevents hairs from peaking out in a swimsuit.
High-Quality Skincare Products
Skin care is a must. Taking good care of your skin is how your skin glows and becomes more “attractive”. With less acne and improved skin tone/texture, you will be looking very different from before.
Determining Your Skin Type
I experimented with a lot of brands, from cheap to expensive, and I’ve found my go-to’s. It’s okay to experiment and try out what works best for your skin type.
Everyone’s skin is unique, so there is no one-size-fits-all solution. You might need more hydration, while others need to focus on oil control. Here’s a brief guide to help you determine your skin type:
- Dry: If your skin often feels tight and looks flaky, you might have dry skin. You’ll need moisturizing and hydrating products.
- Normal/Combination: If your skin is oily in some areas (usually the T-zone – forehead, nose, and chin) and dry in others, you have combination skin. Look for products that maintain your skin’s balance.
- Oily: If your skin is often shiny and feels greasy, you have oily skin. Seek out products that control oil production and avoid heavy creams.
- Sensitive: If your skin reacts to many products or is easily inflamed, you have sensitive skin. Opt for gentle and hypoallergenic products.
THE BEST SKINCARE PRODUCTS FOR AN AMAZING GLOW
Here’re the products that I recommend and use on a daily basis.
- Cleanser: Ginseng Cleansing Oil + Neutrogena Ultra Gentle
- Serums: Beauty of Joseon Deep Glow
- Moisturizer: TATCHA Rich Cream
- Face Mask: Anti-Aging, Hydrating Collagen Mask
Daily Skincare Routine
Once you have the products, it’s important to stay consistent on a good skincare routine. Here’s a basic routine you can follow (check out the routine that I use that’s free for you to use):
Morning:
- Cleanser: Start your day by washing your face with a gentle cleanser. This helps to remove any oils that may have accumulated on your skin overnight.
- Toner: Apply toner to your face. It helps to balance the pH of your skin and prepares it for the next steps.
- Serum: Depending on your skin concerns, use a serum. For example, vitamin C serums are great for brightening your skin and combating pigmentation.
- Moisturizer: Even if your skin type is oily, don’t skip moisturizer. It locks in hydration and prevents your skin from producing excess oil.
- Sunscreen: The most crucial step. It protects your skin from harmful UV rays that cause premature aging and skin cancer. In addition, it helps with wrinkles! The perfect time to start wearing sunscreen is NOW!
Evening:
- Cleanser: Use a cleanser to remove makeup, dirt, and pollution from your skin.
- Exfoliant: 2-3 times a week, use a gentle exfoliant. It removes dead skin cells, helping your skin to look bright and fresh.
- Toner: Just like in the morning, apply a toner to balance your skin.
- Serum: Use a serum that targets your specific skin concerns.
- Moisturizer: Apply a nourishing moisturizer to hydrate your skin overnight.
Lastly, don’t forget to regularly apply a face mask.
They help to deeply clean your pores and provide your skin with a nutrient boost. Depending on your budget, there are a few to choose from and no, I am not sponsored by these.
These are great on the face and provide a little extra boost for your skincare routine.
Remember, consistency is key for any skincare routine to be effective. You can’t expect to see a massive change in just a day or two. Give it time, and you’ll notice a significant improvement in your skin’s texture and complexion.
Fashion and Personal Style
One cannot talk about a glow up without mentioning fashion and personal style. Your clothes don’t necessarily define you, but they can give others an impression about who you are. Dressing well can also make you feel more confident.
For Men: Go for a clean, well-groomed look. Keep your clothes simple but stylish. A well-fitting white T-shirt, a pair of nice jeans, and a decent pair of shoes can go a long way. Don’t forget to accessorize! A nice watch or a pair of sunglasses can elevate your entire look.
For Women: There are endless ways to express your style. Whether you prefer dresses, jeans, skirts, or trousers, ensure they fit well and make you feel good. Accessorize with jewelry, bags, or scarves for a polished look.
Remember, confidence is the best outfit. Don’t be afraid to experiment and see what you feel best in. Style is a way to say who you are without having to speak.
Building Interpersonal Skills and Self-Confidence
Interpersonal skills play a crucial role in how we communicate and interact with others. They contribute significantly to our overall personality and self-confidence.
Whether you’re an introvert or an extrovert, developing your interpersonal skills can help you communicate more effectively, making you more appealing to others.
- Listening Skills: Show others that you respect their thoughts and opinions by listening attentively.
- Empathy: Practice empathy by putting yourself in others’ shoes. This can help you understand their perspective and improve your relationships.
- Non-Verbal Communication: Work on your body language, facial expressions, and eye contact, as these can convey as much meaning as words.
- Conversation Skills: Improve your ability to start and carry on conversations by asking open-ended questions and giving compliments when they’re due.
Moreover, develop your assertiveness skills. It’s important to express your feelings and stand up for them while respecting the rights of others.
Bottling your feelings up is not a great way to solve problems.
Remember, self-confidence isn’t about being the loudest in the room. It’s about being comfortable in your own skin and not being afraid to express your thoughts and feelings. Believe in yourself, and others will too.
Work on confidence
Confidence doesn’t only make you feel better, but it can also add a “glow” to your skin. Over the years, I’ve realized that confidence is often noticeable in the way a person carries themselves or speaks (hence improving on your conversation skills).
Below are some techniques I’ve found effective in cultivating a more attractive and confident persona.
Mewing: Reshaping Your Facial Structure
Not familiar with mewing? Named after Dr. John Mew, mewing aims to optimize facial growth, improve breathing, and achieve facial symmetry. The sooner you start, the better!
Here’s a quick list of mewing’s pros and cons:
Pros:
- Improves facial structure
- Improves breathing
- Reduces snoring
- Improves sleep apnea
- Reduces neck pain
Cons:
- Requires time and patience
- May be less effective as you age (I started mewing at 19 and it’s been beneficial for me)
- Based on anecdotal evidence
Here’s an updated in-depth guide on mewing and the mewing exercises you need to be doing if you want a chiseled jawline.
Choosing the Right Hairstyle
Your hairstyle can dramatically impact your overall appearance. If you’re unsure about the best hairstyle for you, consider consulting a hairstylist. They can help you choose a style that complements your face shape and hair type.
Here are a few factors to consider when choosing a hairstyle:
- Face Shape: Different hairstyles suit different face shapes. For instance, if you have a round face, opt for a hairstyle that creates the illusion of length.
- Hair Type: Your hairstyle should also complement your hair type. For example, if you have thick, curly hair, you might want a hairstyle that showcases and manages your curls effectively.
- Lifestyle: If you lead a busy life, consider a low-maintenance hairstyle that’s easy to handle and still looks fantastic.
Remember, finding the perfect hairstyle often involves trial and error. But don’t worry if you’re not happy with a cut or style—hair grows back!
Cut Out Negative People
Let go of negative people! They not only drain your energy but can also significantly impact your confidence. If someone consistently brings negativity into your life, it may be best to distance yourself.
I know it’s challenging—especially if you’ve known them for years. But in my experience, I’ve felt happier and more confident since I started distancing myself from negative people.
30 Day Glow Up Challenge
Taking the first step is always the hardest. But don’t worry— I wanted to make this process as easy as possible for you. Here’s a free, detailed 30-day glow up challenge that tackles skincare, fitness, and mental health.
“The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” – Lao Tzu
Note: This guide covers a lot, but remember, you don’t need to do everything at once. Start slowly and do what you can. As you become more comfortable, gradually incorporate more elements. The most important thing is to stay consistent.
You can get the full 30-day glow up challenge calendar here.
Conclusion
Transforming yourself is an ongoing journey. It takes time, effort, and a lot of self-love. But remember—every journey starts with a single step.
Your glow up journey isn’t just about looking good—it’s about feeling good and becoming the best version of yourself.
“Beauty begins the moment you decide to be yourself.” – Coco Chanel
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to glowing up. It’s a personal journey that’s different for everyone. The most important thing is that you’re doing this for yourself, not for anyone else.
Remember to drink water, get enough sleep, and always love yourself! Let’s get that glow!
Frequently Asked Questions
How To Glow Up Overnight
Glowing up overnight is, unfortunately, unheard of. Similar questions like, "How To Glow Up In A Week" is very common but the results are also unheard of. It's a consistent process of: cleansing your face thoroughly; applying a nourishing face mask; hydrating your body by drinking plenty of water; and getting a good night's sleep.
What Are Some Glow Up Tips For 12 Year Olds
Glow up tips for 12 year olds includes developing a skincare routine appropriate for your age, such as using a gentle cleanser and moisturizer; maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and water to keep your skin healthy; getting regular exercise; and developing good sleep habits. Everything you need to know is above! Get started now!
How To Have A Glow Up List
Here's a list of things you could do: setting skincare routines; maintaining a healthy diet; keeping yourself hydrated; getting regular exercise; maintaining good sleep habits; practicing good oral hygiene; maintaining a positive attitude; doing mewing exercises; and cultivating good personal style.
Can You Glow Up Your Face
Yes! You can glow up your face by following a regular skincare routine that includes cleansing, toning, moisturizing, and exfoliating your skin. Other factors like maintaining a healthy diet, staying hydrated, getting enough sleep, and protecting your skin from sun damage can also contribute to a face glow up. Use my tips above!
