We live in a world that makes it seem like you need hundreds of dollars, a closet full of luxury skincare, a personal trainer, and a brand-new wardrobe to have a real glow up. But here’s the truth: the most powerful glow ups happen when you change your habits, not just your appearance.
Real beauty, the kind that turns heads and lights up rooms, comes from the inside out. It’s about how you take care of yourself. How you talk to yourself. How you show up for your body, your mind, and your life daily. And the best part? You don’t need a shopping spree or a whole new life to start.
There are so many free, simple things you can start doing right now that will transform how you look, how you feel, and how you move through the world. This kind of glow up doesn’t just make you prettier—it makes you more confident, more grounded, and more alive.
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What does “glow up” actually mean?
The term “glow up” was originally used to refer to beauty makeovers but is now gaining a whole new meaning within the online wellness space. Yes, glow up still describes a “transformation” of significant improvement, but it is no longer limited to just physical appearance.
Glowing up means to step into the “best” version of yourself — mentally, physically and emotionally. It is a holistic transformation that involves both external and internal changes but usually starts from within. It’s about nurturing self-love, embracing your authentic self and thriving in every aspect of life.
I know the term “glow up” can come across as slightly toxic, especially if we’re talking about appearance. And because I have zero tolerance for toxic wellness trends, I encourage you to define your own version of “glow up”.
Yes, by definition, “glow up” simply means upgrading your life. But you’re the one who gets to define the ins and outs of what this transformation looks like. My version means making my life 1% healthier and more balanced than the year before. It’s about adopting certain habits that will upgrade my daily well-being. So this is your permission slip to always do things on your own terms.
How to Glow Up in Summer
Here are few points:
Drink Lots of Water
In summer, your body loses water very quickly due to heat and sweat. Drinking enough water keeps your skin soft, reduces dryness, and removes toxins. Carry a bottle wherever you go and sip throughout the day to stay fresh and glowing.
Eat Light and Healthy
Heavy foods can make you feel tired in the heat. Choose fruits and veggies that contain more water, like watermelon, cucumber, grapes, and oranges. These keep your body cool and give your skin natural brightness from inside.
Follow a Simple Skincare Routine
Summer skincare doesn’t need too many products. Just cleanse your face twice a day, use a light moisturizer, and don’t forget sunscreen. This routine prevents pimples, reduces oil, and keeps your skin smooth all day.
Use sunscreen daily
Use Sunscreen DailySunscreen protects your skin from sunburn, tanning, and early aging. Use SPF 30 or higher and apply it 15 minutes before stepping out. Reapply every 2–3 hours if you stay in the sun. This one step can improve your skin massively.
Keep Your Body Active
Keep your body active doing a little exercise daily improves blood flow, boosts energy, and gives your face a natural glow. You can walk, jog, dance, or do home workouts. Even 20–30 minutes a day can make a big difference in your summer glow-up.
Sleep Well
Good sleep restores your skin overnight. It reduces dark circles, puffiness, and dullness. Aim for 7–8 hours of sleep and try to maintain a regular sleep schedule. Better sleep = better mood + better glow.
Wear Breathable Clothes
In summer, your skin needs to breathe. Cotton or linen outfits help reduce sweat, irritation, and heat rashes. Light and airy clothes also make you feel comfortable, which adds to your overall confidence and look.
Take Care of Your Hair
Heat and humidity can make hair frizzy and dry. Use lightweight hair oils or serums to protect it. Avoid using too many heat tools like straighteners. Wash your hair regularly and cover it when going out in strong sunlight.
Stay Stress-Free
Stress affects your skin and your energy. Take a few minutes daily to relax—listen to music, meditate, journal your thoughts, or spend time with people who make you happy. A peaceful mind helps you glow from inside.
Keep Yourself Fresh
Shower regularly, use deodorants, and maintain good hygiene. These simple habits make you feel clean and confident, which naturally boosts your glow and summer vibe.
How to Glow Up in Winter
Here are few point:
Keep Your Skin Deeply Hydrated
Winter air pulls moisture out of your skin, making it look dull and dry. Use a thick moisturizer after washing your face to lock in hydration. Choose creams with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides to keep your skin soft and glowing throughout the day.
Drink Enough Water, Even If You Don’t Feel Thirsty
Cold weather reduces your thirst, but your body still needs water to stay healthy. Drinking enough water keeps your skin smooth, supports digestion, and naturally brightens your complexion from within.
Switch to Gentle Skincare Products
Harsh cleansers can strip your skin’s natural oils, especially in winter. Use a mild, hydrating face wash that cleans without drying. This helps your skin stay balanced, calm, and fresh.
Exfoliate Only Once a Week
Dead skin builds up faster in winter, making your face look rough. Gently exfoliate once a week to remove dry layers and reveal smooth skin. Overdoing it can cause irritation, so keep it simple and gentle.
Eat Warm, Nutritious Foods for a Natural Glow
What you eat shows on your skin. Winter is the perfect time to enjoy fruits, nuts, warm salads, and soups. Foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E help make your skin brighter and more radiant.
Protect Your Lips from Dryness
Lips easily crack in cold weather, which affects your overall glow. Apply lip balm frequently—especially one with shea butter, coconut oil, or vitamin E—to keep your lips soft, shiny, and healthy.
Get Proper and Restful SleepYour skin repairs itself while you sleep. Getting 7–8 hours of rest every night reduces dark circles, brightens your complexion, and gives your face a fresh morning glow.
Move Your Body Daily
Even a short walk or light workout boosts blood circulation. This brings more oxygen to your skin, giving your cheeks a natural, healthy blush that looks beautiful in winter.
Nourish Your Hair with Extra Care
Nourish Your Hair with Extra CareWinter makes hair dry, frizzy, and weak. Use oil massages or deep-conditioning masks once a week to restore shine and smoothness. Healthy hair adds to your overall glow-up.
Wear Warm, Soft Colors to Enhance Your Look
Winter fashion can boost your glow too. Choose cozy outfits in warm colors like beige, cream, brown, or soft pastels. These shades brighten your look and make your skin tone appear warmer and more radiant.
How to Glow Up Physically
Here are few point:
Sleep Well to Repair Your Body Naturally
Sleep is your body’s natural glow treatment. Good sleep reduces dark circles, repairs skin, and refreshes your mind. Aim for 7–8 hours so you wake up with a more relaxed and glowing appearance.
Maintain Good Personal Hygiene
Small habits like showering regularly, brushing twice a day, using deodorant, and keeping your clothes clean make a huge difference. A fresh and well-groomed appearance instantly boosts your physical glow.
Take Proper Care of Your Hair
Healthy hair adds beauty to your overall look. Oil your hair once or twice a week, wash with a suitable shampoo, and avoid too much heat styling. Clean, soft, and shiny hair always makes you look more polished.
Improve Your Posture Every Day
Standing or sitting straight not only makes you look confident, but it also helps your body function better. Good posture naturally lifts your appearance and makes your presence stronger.
Reduce Stress and Stay Calm
Stress affects your skin, hair, and body. Try meditation, deep breathing, or listening to music to relax. A calm mind creates a calm face—and that is true glow.
Wear Clothes That Fit You Well and Suit Your Style
You don’t need expensive outfits—just clean and well-fitted clothes that make you feel confident. When your outfit matches your personality, you automatically look more attractive and put-together.
Cut Down on Junk and Sugary Foods
Too much sugar can lead to dull skin and breakouts. Reducing sugar and eating cleaner meals will improve your skin clarity, reduce bloating, and help you feel lighter and healthier.
Stay Active Throughout the Whole Day
Don’t stay in one position for long hours. Move around, stretch often, and take short walks. These small habits improve blood circulation and keep your body feeling fresh.
Create a Clean Space Around You
A neat room, clean bedsheets, and organized surroundings help you feel more relaxed. A positive environment improves your sleep and reduces stress, both of which contribute to a better glow.
Stay Patient and Consistent
A physical glow-up comes from small, daily habits done with dedication. Give yourself time. Slow progress is still progress, and every small change adds up.
Home remedies for Glowing Skin
Here are few points:
Turmeric (Skin Type – All )
Turmeric has natural antibacterial properties and is a powerful antioxidant, making it a go-to spice for maintaining clear and glowing skin. It has curcumin, an anti-inflammatory agent that helps to get rid of hyperpigmented marks. It gives your skin a glow and rejuvenates it.
Turmeric eliminates free radicals that damage the skin and enhances collagen production, which helps keep the skin supple and fresh.
How To Use Turmeric for Your Skin
- Mix about half a teaspoon of turmeric powder with a cup of gram flour (chickpea flour).
- Add enough milk/water/yoghurt and mix well to form a smooth paste.
- Now, add a few drops of rose water and remix it. Apply this paste on your face and neck and leave it on till it dries.
- Then, rinse with cool water. Note: Do not rub off dry packs from the skin; it can irritate the skin.
Olive Oil (Skin Type – Dry)
Olive oil acts as an excellent moisturizer for dry skin. It helps prevent the skin from aging early. It’s great for the skin and gives it a nice, healthy glow, suitable for people of all age groups. Olive oil is one of the best oils for massaging dry skin.
How To Use Olive Oil for Your Skin
- Every night before hitting the bed, take a few drops of olive oil and apply them all over your body.
- Another way is to put a few drops of olive oil in lukewarm water and use it for a bath.
Milk (Skin Type – Sensitive and Dry)
Tyrosine, the melanin-controlling hormone, leads to the darkening of the skin. Milk counters the effects of Tyrosine in the skin and promotes a skin full of glow. Raw milk is one of the most accessible ingredients for getting good-looking skin.
How To Use Milk for Your Skin
- You can apply raw milk to your skin or mix it with turmeric or honey and form a paste.
- Massage gently for a few seconds and rinse it off with lukewarm water. Not only does it help with cleansing the skin, but it also maintains the skin’s moisture.
Besan (Skin Types – All)
Besan has always been a trusted remedy for healthy and glowing skin. Besan or gram flour acts as a natural exfoliator and helps remove dead skin cells.
How To Use Besan for Your Skin
- You can mix besan with water, milk or any other ingredients.
- It is applied like a pack on the skin.
- Make sure to dampen the pack while washing it off. Rubbing the dry mask might lead to irritated skin at times and can lead to breakouts, too.
Cucumber (Skin Type – Acne Prone, Dry & Sensitive)
Dry skin, chapped skin, dark circles? Include cucumbers not only in your diet but also in your beauty regimen. Cucumber has the same pH level as that of our skin. It helps replenish the skin’s protective layer and keeps the skin hydrated, thus promoting glowing skin.
How To Use Cucumber for Your Skin
- You can put cucumber slices on your eyes as they appear in magazines and television.
- You can also place cucumber in a mixer grinder and apply the juice.
- Making cucumber juice ice cubes and using it after a tiring day out in the sun gives a super relaxed experience to the skin.
Honey (Skin Type – Oily, Acne-Prone & Combination)
Honey is an excellent moisturizer and helps keep the skin well-hydrated. Honey’s anti-bacterial properties help ward off infections and reduce blemishes and acne at home. Honey ensures spotless skin. It is rich in antioxidant properties and helps fade pigmentation and scars.
How To Use Honey for Your Skin
- You can directly apply honey on your face and neck area, but ensure your skin is clean and damp.
- Massage for a few minutes, allowing it to get absorbed by the skin.
- Now, wash off with lukewarm water.
Almonds (Skin Type – All)
Almonds are rich in Vitamin E and antioxidants. Regular massage with almond oil keeps our skin glowing and healthy. It also prevents fine lines and wrinkles.
How To Use Almonds for Your Skin
- You can crush soaked almonds in milk and blend well to form a paste.
- Apply on the skin and leave for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Then wash with cold water and pat dry.
- You can also massage your skin with almond oil for 5 to 10 minutes daily for younger-looking skin.
Saffron (Skin Type – Sensitive & Oily)
Saffron is excellent for our skin. It helps in lightening the skin tone and makes it glowy. It is effective in treating acne, blemishes and blackheads. Saffron makes our skin smooth and lightens dark circles.
How To Use Saffron for Your Skin
- Add a few strands of saffron to water and leave for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Then, add this water to milk, honey or turmeric to make different types of face masks.
- Apply on the skin for 5 to 10 minutes and then wash with cold water. Pat dry.
FAQ
Q 1. How can I start my glow up journey?
You can start by building small, healthy habits like drinking more water, sleeping better, eating clean food, and following a simple skincare routine. These basic steps create the foundation for a long-lasting glow up.
Q 2. How long does it take to glow up?
A glow up is different for everyone. Some changes show in 2–3 weeks, while deeper results take a few months. The key is consistency—small daily habits give big results over time.
Q 3. What is the most important step in a glow up?
Taking care of your skin and body from the inside is the most important step. Hydration, healthy food, and proper sleep improve your natural glow more than anything else.
Q 4. Can I glow up without expensive products?
Yes, absolutely. A glow up depends more on your lifestyle than your budget. Simple routines, home remedies, exercise, and clean eating are often more effective than expensive products.
