Budget-Friendly (or Splurge-Worthy) Glow-Up Tips
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True transformation starts from within, but small changes—whether habits or products—can make you feel good and boost your confidence. These are the things that unknowingly set me on my path.
Teeth Care
Take care of your teeth! If you already have perfectly straight, white teeth, skip to the next tip. But for me, my teeth were okay—just a bit yellow. When my dentist told me I was at risk for gum disease, it was a huge wake-up call. I started brushing and flossing like mad after that—sometimes three times a day.
You don’t have to go crazy, but I highly recommend investing in (my favourite products are listed below too):
Your smile is one of the first things people notice, and if you’re self-conscious about it, it will impact your confidence. I personally got my teeth whitened at the dentist, but there are plenty of affordable options on Amazon (in the link above). My whitening kit has lasted over a year, so I think it was worth the investment!
Find a Workout Routine That Fits Your Lifestyle
Even 20 minutes a day can make a difference! YouTube has endless free programs—I personally love Caroline Girvan and have done most of her workouts. They’re great whether you’re at home or in the gym. If you prefer Pilates, you don’t even need equipment—just your body!
✔️ Invest in dumbbells (they’re expensive but worth it). Check out my favourite dumbbells here.
✔️ Try Pilates or bodyweight workouts if you prefer a no-equipment option
10K Steps a Day
Walking is underrated. It’s therapeutic, free, and effective. Put on a podcast, a great playlist, or just enjoy the sounds of nature. I aim for 10K steps daily, but even a simple walk outside can boost your mood.
Dressing for Confidence
Wear clothes that fit and flatter your shape. I used to struggle with fashion, but I started following high-street fashion bloggers for inspiration. At first, I even bought entire outfits they recommended to make sure everything looked good together! Now, I mix and match pieces I already own.
✔️ Look for affordable dupes
✔️ Thrift for quality pieces
✔️ Use fashion blogs for style inspiration
Some of my favourite outfit inspirations came from two amazing Instagram accounts @OOTD_Girls_Club and @Highstreetstyleinspo. Their outfit ideas really helped spark my own style transformations, and I loved re-creating their looks. They share amazing outfit ideas, and beauty inspirations on their LTK Shops!
Skincare: Your Glow-Up Essential
I didn’t fully realize how important skincare was until later in my journey. A healthy, glowing base makes such a difference—it keeps your skin refreshed, hydrated, and healthy.
Here are my must-have skincare staples with a link to my personal favourites:
Learn How to Apply Makeup
Makeup isn’t essential, but for me, it was a game-changer. I used to apply it all wrong—my foundation would literally slide off my face! Once I learned proper techniques (like contouring and blush placement), my confidence skyrocketed.
✔️ Watch YouTube tutorials for beginner-friendly makeup lessons
✔️ Start simple—skip the eyeshadow until you get the basics down
✔️ Invest in key makeup tools for a polished look – my recommendations are:
Supplements for a Healthy Glow
I recently added supplements to my routine, and I love the difference they’ve made. Currently, I take:
✔️ Multivitamins
✔️ Lion’s Mane (great for focus and energy)
✔️ Magnesium (helps with relaxation)
✔️ Collagen (for skin, hair, and nails)
Drink More Water (Yes, Really!)
I used to hate this tip because… really?! But I lived on coffee and barely drank any water. Now, I still love my coffee, but I make sure to chug a big glass of water every morning and drink at least one full Stanley cup (fake or real, doesn’t matter – my personal favourite is this one!) throughout the day.
Prioritize Self-Care
Once a week (or every night, if you can), do something just for you. For me, that means:
✔️ Lighting a candle
✔️ Putting on a face mask or even an LED Mask
✔️ Pouring a glass of wine
✔️ Watching a documentary or reading a book
Find what makes you happy—outside of your partner, friends, or family. Whether it’s Lego, walking, journaling, or crafting, make time for yourself.
Manifest Your Dream Life
Okay, this one might not be for everyone—but hear me out. Create a Pinterest board filled with your dream life: the home you want, the experiences you crave, the version of yourself you aspire to be.
Every night before bed, visualize yourself already living that life. How does it feel? Immerse yourself in that feeling. This is the Law of Assumption—if you’re interested, look up Neville Goddard. It might just change your life… but only if you’re ready.
Final Thoughts
Glow-Ups aren’t just about looking good – they’re about feeling good. Start with small changes, be patient with yourself, and trust that transformation happens naturally when you take care of yourself.