Your 30s can be a transformative time—a decade of self-awareness, growth, and redefining what it means to take care of yourself. Whether you’re stepping into motherhood, embracing career changes, or just looking to feel more confident in your own skin, a glow-up is all about feeling your best from the inside out.
After reading through a Reddit thread where women shared their best tips on glowing up in their 30s, I compiled the top insights that really stood out to me.
Here’s what I learned from these inspiring women:
1. Prioritize Skincare Over Makeup
A common theme among women in their 30s was the shift from heavy makeup to a more natural, glowy look focused on skin health. Investing in a solid skincare routine is key to feeling radiant at any age.
- Top tips include:
- Sunscreen every day (seriously, this is non-negotiable).
- Using retinol (if not breastfeeding) and vitamin C to fight aging and keep your skin looking fresh.
- Hydrating, both with water and moisturizers, to keep your skin soft and supple.
- Simplifying your routine with fewer, but higher-quality, products that truly work for your skin.
2. Exercise for Strength and Health, Not Just Looks
Exercise is no longer just about looking a certain way—it's about feeling strong, confident, and energized. Many women recommended weightlifting and other strength-based exercises as part of their routine. Not only does it keep you fit, but it also helps boost confidence and maintain bone density as you age.
- Quick tips:
- Incorporate weightlifting or resistance exercises a few times a week.
- Go for daily walks to clear your mind and stay active without burning out.
- Find an activity you enjoy, whether it’s yoga, dancing, or hiking, and stick with it.
3. Don’t Neglect Your Mental Health
Your 30s can bring a lot of external stress—work, family, relationships—so it’s essential to prioritize your mental health as much as your physical health. Several women mentioned how important therapy, meditation, and self-reflection have been in their glow-up journeys.
- Key takeaways:
- Regular therapy or counseling can help you navigate life’s challenges and reduce stress.
- Meditation or mindfulness practices help keep you grounded and improve emotional well-being.
- Journaling is another great tool to reflect on your goals, track your progress, and work through any emotions.
4. Focus on Sleep and Hydration
It turns out that beauty sleep is no myth. Getting enough rest is crucial for both your physical appearance and your overall mood and energy levels. Many women also emphasized how staying hydrated (both with water and electrolytes) helps them feel their best.
- Sleep and hydration hacks:
- Prioritize 7-8 hours of sleep each night. If you have a newborn or busy schedule, catch naps whenever possible.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Adding a splash of lemon or using a water bottle with hourly reminders can help you stay on track.
- Minimize alcohol and caffeine intake—they can dehydrate your skin and disrupt your sleep.
5. Build Confidence Through Self-Love and Boundaries
One of the most empowering tips was the idea of setting boundaries and letting go of societal pressures. As we get older, we become more comfortable with who we are and what we want. Several women shared that giving fewer “fucks” and focusing on themselves was the key to their glow-up.
- How to cultivate confidence:
- Dress for the body you have right now. Focus on clothes that make you feel good, regardless of trends or size.
- Let go of toxic relationships and prioritize people who uplift and support you.
- Learn to say “no” and establish healthy boundaries in all areas of your life.
Your 30s are all about embracing who you are and working toward the best version of yourself—inside and out. Whether it’s finding joy in a simpler skincare routine, lifting weights for strength, or focusing on mental health, glowing up is about what makes you feel your best.
Are you ready to step into your glow-up journey? Join our Facebook group, where we empower each other through tips, support, and shared experiences. Let’s shine together!