The Ultimate Summer Glow-Up Guide for Women

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Every spring, I tell myself the same thing: This summer, I’m going to feel confident, beautiful, and completely put together. You know the dream—smooth, glowing skin, a natural tan, and that effortless energy that says, “Yes, I woke up looking like this.”

But somehow, June shows up too fast. And instead of feeling fresh and ready, I end up rushing to apply last-minute self-tanner and praying one good night’s sleep will do the trick.

Not this year. This time, I’m starting early with a simple but powerful summer glow-up plan. No stress, no last-minute panic. Just real steps that actually make a difference.

Here’s my plan to glow up from the inside out—and stay ahead of the game:

Why Does My Skin Look So Tired—Even When I’m Doing Almost Everything Right?

I drink my greens, hit my step goals, wear my Oura Ring proudly, and my Stanley tumbler is basically glued to my hand. So tell me—why does my skin look like I’ve skipped water, veggies, and sleep for months?

Here’s the truth: Seasonal depression and stress hit hard, and my skincare habits didn’t survive. Lately, my face has looked dull, puffy, and just… off. So now, I’m getting back on track with easy skincare habits that deliver real results—fast.

These are low-effort skincare steps I’m adding back to my routine to get glowing, healthy skin—starting tomorrow:

1. Reduce Puffiness with Gua Sha (Yes, It Works!)

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I’m bringing back my gua sha tool for quick morning facial massage. It helps with lymphatic drainage, reduces puffiness, and boosts circulation for a more sculpted look.

2. Exfoliate at Home Like a Pro

No time (or energy) for the medspa? Same. I’m using a gentle at-home exfoliator to smooth out my skin and help products absorb better. It’s the key to getting that fresh, clean glow without leaving my bathroom.

3. Glow Up with Vitamin C

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A good Vitamin C serum is non-negotiable in my skincare comeback. It helps brighten dark spots, fights signs of aging, and gives me that glow-from-within look—without any effort.

4. Hydrate Overnight with a Sleeping Mask

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I’m locking in moisture with an overnight hydrating face mask. It’s the lazy girl’s dream—apply it before bed and wake up with soft, plump skin. Total game-changer.

5. Protect and Perfect with Tinted Sunscreen

I’ve learned the hard way: sunscreen isn’t optional—even on cloudy days. I’m using a tinted SPF every single day on my face, neck, and hands. It protects and gives a light, natural coverage so I can skip makeup.

Let’s be real: I’ve had it with traditional hair removal methods. Shaving used to be my go-to, but now? I’m officially over it. The razor burn, the missed spots, the constant upkeep—it’s just not worth the stress anymore.

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And waxing? Don’t get me started. It’s painful, pricey, and forces you to grow your hair out in between sessions. Nothing like needing to wear a bikini on Saturday when your wax isn’t until Friday. Awkward.

I used to think these were my only two options—until I discovered something that totally changed the game: laser hair removal.

Why I Chose Laser Hair Removal (And Why It’s Totally Worth It)

Here’s the deal: Laser hair removal isn’t instant, but that’s why I’m starting early—so I can be hair-free and carefree by summer. After just two sessions, I’ve already noticed less hair growth and smoother skin with zero razor bumps.

girl-not-shaving-legs-morgan-mikenas-7 — Source

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Unlike shaving or waxing, laser hair removal is a long-term solution. After a full series of treatments, you’ll barely need to worry about hair again—no more razors, no more waxing appointments.

Where I’m Going (and Why It Matters)

I chose LaserAway because they use medical-grade lasers, have expert providers, and always get great reviews. They’re known for giving long-lasting results, and right now they have a promo for up to 70% off, which made the decision even easier.

My Results So Far

Just two sessions in, and I can already feel the difference. My skin is smoother, softer, and totally free of the usual bumps and irritation. Come summer, if you see me glowing at the beach with flawless skin, now you know my secret.

Step 3: Move Your Body in Ways That Actually Feel Good (Not Like a Punishment)

Let’s stop pretending every workout has to be intense to count. I used to think I had to do a “real” workout every single day to make progress. But guess what? Life happens. And missing a workout doesn’t mean I’m failing.

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Now, I focus on consistency over perfection. Even a 10-minute stretch session, a short walk, or some light yoga on my bedroom floor helps me stay on track—no guilt, no pressure.

Finding Workouts That Are Actually Fun (Yes, It’s Possible!)

I’m not the kind of girl who loves spending an hour in the gym figuring out how to use weight machines. And I finally realized: I’ll never stay consistent unless I actually enjoy my workouts.

Here’s what I’ve been loving lately:

Walking: It boosts my mood, tones my legs, and burns calories. I even added light arm weights for a mini full-body workout.
Yoga: Great for flexibility and my mental health. Plus, it helps relieve stress.
Bike rides: A weekend favorite that makes cardio feel like fun, not work.

The truth is, your workout doesn’t have to be intense or boring to get results. Fun fitness routines are the secret to staying consistent.

How I Stay on Track (Even When I’d Rather Do Literally Anything Else)

Some days, I just don’t feel like moving. But I’ve learned a few workout motivation hacks that help me stay consistent:

Cute matching workout sets: When I love my outfit, I’m way more likely to show up.
Pre-booking classes: Nothing like a $30 cancellation fee to hold me accountable.
The 5-minute rule: I tell myself to just start. If I still want to quit after five minutes, I stop—but I almost always keep going.
Podcasts as rewards: I save my favorite episodes for walks or workouts. It makes moving feel like a treat, not a task.

Step 4: The Confidence Reset—Because a Glow-Up Starts from Within

Let’s talk about confidence. It’s the final (and most important) part of this glow-up. We always hear people say, “Just shift your mindset,” like it’s easy—but the truth? It’s hard work. Changing how you think about yourself takes time, practice, and a little trial and error.

**Mindset Shifts That Actually Make a Difference**

One mindset trick that works for me? “Fake it ‘til you make it.” Even on days I feel blah, I get dressed, do my hair, go to my favorite café, or take myself out—as if I already feel amazing. Acting confident often leads to actually feeling confident.

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Another thing that helps? Treating myself like I would a best friend. I show up for myself, even on hard days. That small shift—caring for myself with kindness—has changed everything.

Tiny Daily Habits That Build Real Confidence

You don’t need to change everything overnight. What helps me most are small habits that create a sense of routine and self-respect. A few of my favorites:

Saying simple daily affirmations that actually feel real, not cheesy
Doing a short morning skincare routine that helps me feel refreshed
Drinking water regularly (yes, my Stanley is always nearby)
Making a cozy coffee the way I love it
Stepping outside every day—even just for five minutes of fresh air

These little acts send a powerful message: I care about myself. And that builds self-confidence that lasts.

The Real Goal? Loving Who You Already Are

This whole glow-up thing? It’s not about becoming someone new. It’s about taking care of who I already am. True confidence isn’t about meeting some impossible beauty standard—it’s about feeling strong, happy, and comfortable in your own skin.

So no, I’m not trying to become “unrecognizable.” I just want to walk into summer feeling confident, calm, and completely myself.