Looking for ways to have a glow up in time for summer? The idea of a summer glow up has taken off in recent years, and for good reason.
The lead-up to summer is the perfect time to refresh your look and boost your confidence. With the season just around the corner, now is the ideal moment to make small changes that will leave you feeling great all summer long.
From glowing skin to a brighter smile, here’s how to get ready for the warmer months ahead.
Reset your skin routine
Healthy, glowing skin doesn’t happen overnight, so it’s worth giving your skincare routine a little extra attention well before summer hits.
1) Hydrate
Aim to drink 2 litres of water a day. Try adding cucumber, mint, or lemon to make it more appealing and encourage consistent hydration.
2) Exfoliate 2-3 times a week
Choose a gentle chemical exfoliant if you’re prone to sensitivity, and don’t forget to follow with a soothing moisturiser.
3) Always wear SPF
Make SPF 30+ a daily habit, even on cloudy days. This will ensure your skin is protected from harmful UV rays.
4) Use targeted serums
Vitamin C in the morning can brighten and protect, while a gentle retinol 2–3 nights a week can improve skin texture over time.
5) Treat yourself to a facial
Book a professional facial to give your skin a refresh and prep it for the summer months ahead.
Strengthen and style your hair
Hair often takes a hit during warmer months, so it’s smart to strengthen and protect it in advance. Plus, what better time to try out a new style?
- Book a trim to remove split ends and freshen up your shape
- Use deep conditioning masks once a week (look for ingredients like shea butter or keratin)
- Let your hair air-dry where possible and switch to heatless styling methods like braids or overnight curls
- Try a new low-maintenance style (think face-framing layers, a soft fringe, or a colour that enhances your natural tone without heavy upkeep)
Make healthy changes to your diet
A balanced diet packed with skin-loving nutrients, and foods that promote healthy teeth and gums, supports your glow-up from the inside out.
1) Balance your meals
Add one extra portion of fruit or veg to each meal. Berries, leafy greens, and sweet potatoes are especially great for skin health.
Make sure each plate includes healthy fats (like avocado), protein (like eggs or beans), and complex carbs (like oats or quinoa).
2) Cut back on sugar
Try swapping fizzy drinks for flavoured sparkling water or herbal teas.
Reducing sugar helps with clearer skin and stable energy.
3) Don’t skip breakfast
A protein-rich start to the day keeps you full and focused.
Greek yoghurt with fruit or eggs with wholegrain toast are good options.
4) Meal prep on Sundays
Set yourself up for the week with nourishing, easy-to-grab options to stay on track even when you’re busy.
Refresh your wardrobe
Dressing with confidence makes a huge difference in how you carry yourself through summer events, holidays, or even just casual meet-ups.
First, clear out anything that no longer fits or makes you feel good. You can sell, donate, or recycle these.
Aim to build a capsule wardrobe of interchangeable pieces such as:
- Neutral shorts
- Colourful tops
- Comfy sandals
- Summer dresses & skirts
Look for breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, and bamboo. These are all great for warmer weather and reduce the chance of overheating or skin irritation.
Invest in some statement pieces such as a bold pair of sunglasses or a colourful bag. This can instantly elevate your summer style and make you feel even more confident.
Make time for regular exercise
Physical activity is a game-changer for boosting confidence and energy levels, especially as we head into longer, sunnier days.
Create a flexible workout plan: Aim for 3–4 sessions per week, mixing strength training, light cardio (like walking or cycling), and stretching.
Take it outside: Moving outdoors not only boosts mood but helps you soak up vitamin D. Try local hikes, outdoor yoga, or a morning jog.
Track your progress: Use a fitness app or journal to log your activity. This helps you stay motivated and build momentum.
Focus on how you feel, not just how you look: Consistency matters more than intensity. Find activities you enjoy and build them into your lifestyle.
Perfect your smile
If straighter teeth are on your summer glow up list, now is a great time to get started. Beginning Smilelign treatment now means you’ll be well on your way to noticeable results by summer.
The aligners are clear and discreet, so you can wear them with confidence from day one—no need to put plans on hold while you’re in treatment.
All you need to do is book an appointment with your nearest Smilelign dentist. They’ll guide you through the next steps, get your treatment started, and be there to support you throughout your journey.
Already love the way your teeth are aligned? A whitening treatment could be the finishing touch.
Vitalisse is a professional at-home whitening system available through your dentist, designed for noticeable results with minimal sensitivity. It includes bespoke whitening trays, a pH-balanced gel, and lots more goodies to help you brighten your teeth comfortably over the course of a few weeks.
Get ready for your most confident summer yet!
A summer glow up is all about feeling good, building confidence, and stepping into the season with a fresh outlook.
Small changes now (like a skincare reset, a more balanced routine, or straighter teeth) can make a big difference by the time summer rolls around.
Focus on what makes you feel like the best version of yourself, and give yourself a head start on the season ahead. The glow up begins now!
