Have you ever experienced a glow-up? You know, that amazing process of positive personal transformation that involves changes to your appearance and style and even boosts your confidence? It’s all about embracing who you are, making healthy changes physically and mentally, and being happy in your own skin.

I had the chance to chat with Ashley Yandisa Mvulane, a 20-year-old who embarked on her own glow-up journey. She shared, “I grew up with the idea that I was an ugly girl who looked like a boy. But I decided to make small changes, like trying to wear skirts and dresses, although I’m still not a fan of those. Then, in 2018, I cut my hair to grow an afro and take better care of it. It played a big part in my glow-up as people started complimenting my hair. In the past, I used to wear clothes that didn’t flatter my body or have any personality. Now, I choose clothes that accentuate my body shape and have cute little details.”

With all these changes, it’s hard not to notice the transformation. Ashley shared, “I feel more feminine now. The clothes I wear show off my body beautifully. Many people who used to find me unattractive now see me differently.”

Ashley’s glow-up journey didn’t just affect her appearance; it significantly impacted her confidence and other areas of her life. She explained, “Besides getting attention from more people, I’ve gained confidence and good self-esteem. I’m no longer afraid to go out publicly or worry about people mistaking my gender.”

If you’re interested in embarking on your own glow-up journey, here are some tips to get you started:

Eat healthy: Nourish your body from the inside out. Eating nutritious food and drinking plenty of water can improve your skin’s appearance and leave you feeling energised.

Get enough sleep: Establish a sleep routine to ensure you’re well-rested. Create a tech-free zone before bed, and try to go to sleep at the same time each night.

Exercise regularly: Engaging in physical activity not only boosts your energy but also enhances your mood.

Invest in good skincare products: Take care of your skin using quality products tailored to your skin type.

Explore makeup: If you’re interested, experiment with makeup to enhance your features and express yourself. Start with basic products like foundation, concealer, blush, mascara, and lip balm.

Change your style: Consider clothes that flatter your figure and make you feel confident. Don’t be afraid to try new things and seek the advice of a trusted friend.

Try a new hairstyle: Find a hairstyle that suits your face shape and complements your skin tone.

A glow-up isn’t just about physical changes—it also involves taking care of your mental health:

Put yourself first: Value yourself and prioritise activities and self-care practices that bring you joy and fulfilment.

Reevaluate your social media: Unfollow accounts that negatively impact your mental health, and remember that not everything on social media reflects reality.

Build confidence: Trust and believe in yourself. Challenge negative self-talk and work on believing that you can achieve your goals.

Embrace alone time: Spend quality time alone, getting to know and appreciate yourself.

Ashley’s advice for anyone starting their own glow-up journey is to start small. She emphasised, “Small changes lead to big results. Whether it’s developing a skincare routine, wearing accessories, or incorporating a little bit of colour into your clothing, every small step counts.”

So, are you ready to embark on your glow-up journey and embrace positive transformation? Remember, it’s all about becoming the best version of yourself and shining bright in your own unique way.

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Tell us: What do you think is the best way to achieve a glow-up?

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