How to Glow Up Physically, Mentally & Emotionally: 15 Tips

So… you’ve been thinking about a glow up?

Not just that cute physical glow up you see all over TikTok or Pinterest (we love those too), but like, the whole thing—mind, body, and spirit. Maybe you looked at yourself in the mirror recently and thought, “Okay, I need a little switch-up” or “I feel stuck and kinda ‘meh’ right now.”

First of all, you’re not alone. I’ve been there. We’ve all been there. Sometimes we just want to feel like the best version of ourselves—like the type of person who walks into a room and owns it without saying a word.

But here’s the thing: glowing up doesn’t happen overnight. It’s not one of those “I put on red lipstick and now my life changed” things. Nah. This is real work. But the good kind. The kind that makes you fall in love with yourself again.

Let’s break it down, shall we?

What Is A Glow Up?

Okay, first things first. What even is a glow up?

Let’s be real. It’s not just about getting “hotter.” A glow up is about becoming a better version of yourself. Sometimes that means clearer skin and healthier hair, other times it means cutting off toxic friends and finally sleeping properly. It could even be the simple act of walking a little taller, smiling more, and not letting people walk all over you anymore.

For some, it’s that “Wow, is that even the same person?” moment. For others, it’s internal. Quiet. Personal. But either way, it’s transformation.

It can take a few weeks, or months… sometimes years. But the journey? Totally worth it.

Ready? Let’s get into the glow-up bag.

How to Glow Up Physically, Mentally & Emotionally

1. Embrace a Good Skincare Routine

Let’s start with the obvious.

Skincare. Because listen, your skin is the first thing people see. And more importantly—it’s the first thing you see.

You don’t need a 12-step Korean skincare routine (unless you want that, go off!). But just having something simple that works for you can change how you feel daily. Cleanse, moisturize, wear sunscreen. That’s the holy trinity.

Oh, and please… stop going to bed with makeup on. I say this with love.

When your skin starts thriving, you’ll feel it. That glowy, fresh-faced, “I woke up like this” vibe? Chef’s kiss.

2. Eat Healthy and Balanced Foods

I know, I know… this one always feels like a drag. But hear me out.

You don’t have to give up everything you love and start living off salads and sadness. Just balance it out.

Like, yeah, enjoy that burger. But also add some greens. Try fruits that do wonders for your skin like blueberries, strawberries, oranges. Vitamin C is that girl. And let’s not forget water-rich foods like cucumbers and watermelon.

Food really is fuel. You’ll literally feel the difference. Less sluggish, more radiant. Trust.

3. Drink Lots of Water

Okay, I’m not even gonna sugarcoat this: water is life.

You can slap on all the serums you want, but if you’re dehydrated, your glow up will not be glowing.

Aim for at least 6 to 8 glasses a day. I like to keep a cute water bottle around to remind myself.

And once you start drinking more water, watch how your skin thanks you. Softer, smoother, bouncier. Like a lil juicy peach hehe.

4. Wear Makeup That Enhances Your Features

Makeup is fun. But it’s not supposed to hide you. It should highlight what you already have going on.

Figure out what works for your face. Maybe it’s a soft blush, maybe it’s bold eyeliner, or maybe just some tinted moisturizer and lip gloss. Whatever makes you feel like you.

Experiment a little. Play with it. Makeup isn’t one-size-fits-all.

When done right, makeup can boost your mood. You look good, you feel good. Period.

5. Go for a Hairstyle That Fits Your Face Shape

Oh girl (or guy), don’t underestimate the power of a good hairstyle.

You ever get a haircut that makes you feel like a whole new person? Exactly.

The right style frames your face, brings out your eyes, softens your features, or makes you look sharp. Even if you’re on a budget, there are options.

Do a bit of research. Or talk to your hairstylist about what would suit your face best. And once you find that signature look? Whew, unstoppable.

6. Exercise Regularly

Let’s talk fitness.

And I don’t mean going beast mode at the gym every day unless that’s your thing. I mean just moving your body. Walks, dancing in your room, stretching, yoga, YouTube workouts—whatever.

Exercise is a natural glow pill. It helps your posture, skin, energy, and even your mood. Endorphins are real. You’ll literally feel happier.

And let’s be honest… that post-workout glow? Ugh. So satisfying.

7. Try Out Lymphatic Massages

This one might sound fancy, but it’s easier than you think.

Lymphatic drainage massages help reduce puffiness and make your skin look more alive. You can even do it yourself with your hands or a jade roller.

It helps with circulation and detoxing your system. And honestly? It just feels good.

It’s like giving your face a lil love every morning. Self-care on another level.

8. Smile Regularly and Stand Up Straight

This sounds basic but oh my gosh, it’s game-changing.

Smiling—even a tiny one—makes you instantly more approachable and attractive. Plus, it lifts your mood. Magic.

Now add good posture to the mix. Shoulders back, chin up. Walk into rooms like you own them.

Body language speaks before you do. So why not let it say “I’m glowing and I know it”?

9. Wear Clothes You Feel Beautiful and Confident In

Okay, this is your permission slip to stop saving outfits for later. Wear the nice dress. Rock the sneakers. Put on that shirt that makes you feel like a boss.

Your clothes should make you feel good. Not just “appropriate.”

Play with colors, silhouettes, vibes. Find your style. And if you don’t know what that is yet, try new things till something clicks.

When you dress like the main character, you start acting like one too.

10. Get Enough Sleep

I’m looking at you, midnight scrollers.

Sleep is not optional in the glow up game. This is where your body actually repairs itself. Skin cells regenerate, under-eyes de-puff, mood resets… it’s all happening in dreamland.

Try aiming for at least 7 hours. Make your room cozy. Unplug early. Protect your peace.

You ever wake up from a full night’s sleep and feel like Beyoncé? That’s the goal.

11. Get Rid of Toxic Relationships

Whew. This one hits.

You can’t fully glow up while dragging around people who make you feel like crap. Period.

Friends who only talk about themselves. Partners who drain your energy. Family members who belittle you. Yeah… all of that. No more.

Cutting people off isn’t cruel. It’s necessary.

You deserve to be surrounded by love, support, laughter, and honesty. Anything less? Bye.

12. Forgive Yourself and Others

This one’s not easy. But it’s powerful.

Forgive yourself for the mistakes. The regrets. The missed chances. All of it.

You’re human. You’re learning. Don’t carry guilt like a backpack everywhere you go.

Same with others. If someone hurt you, forgive them for your peace. Doesn’t mean you forget. But it sets you free.

Letting go clears up space for light to enter. That’s how the glow starts.

13. Don’t Compare Yourself to Others

Comparison is the thief of joy, babes.

I get it. Social media makes it way too easy. But you’re only seeing the highlight reels. Not the mess behind the scenes.

Focus on your journey. Your timeline. Your growth.

You are blooming in your own season, and that’s beautiful. Don’t rush it.

Besides, no one else has your exact magic. Own it.

14. Keep a Positive Attitude

Mindset is half the battle.

A positive attitude doesn’t mean pretending everything is fine. It just means choosing to believe that things can get better.

Start small. Practice gratitude. Say affirmations. Smile at strangers. Be kind to yourself. Laugh at dumb jokes. Watch sunrises.

Your thoughts shape your reality. So make sure they’re rooting for you.

15. Celebrate the Small Wins

Okay, I’m adding this last one in because it’s super underrated.

Glowing up isn’t always about huge changes. Sometimes it’s just showing up for yourself, even when you didn’t feel like it.

You drank your water today? Win.

You unfollowed that toxic ex? Win.

You smiled at yourself in the mirror? BIG win.

Celebrate every little step. Because they all count. And they all add up to something amazing.

Signs of a Glow Up?

So how do you know it’s working?

Well, you’ll feel it first.

You’ll notice you’re smiling more. You’re not as tired. You’re making better choices without forcing it. You’re starting to like who you see in the mirror again.

Your friends might comment. “You seem lighter.” “Your skin’s glowing.” “What have you been doing??”

That’s when you know.

But honestly? The biggest sign is peace. When you’re glowing from the inside out, it just… shows.

So if no one has told you lately: You are allowed to glow up. You deserve to glow up. And it doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s journey.

Start today. Little steps. Tiny changes. Big energy.

You got this.

And when that glow hits? Oh baby… the world won’t know what hit it.

💖✨