Hey glow babe!
If you’re new to skincare, makeup, or just taking time for you, this guide is your starting line — and I’m right here with you. Whether you’re 15 or 55, your glow-up is totally personal and completely possible. Let’s build your beauty foundation together. No stress, no 10-step routines required. Just love, intention, and smart picks.
The glow-up journey is not about perfection. It’s about progress, showing up for yourself, and building habits that nourish your skin and soul. I created this guide with love because I remember how overwhelming it was to get started. What should I buy? What actually works? How do I know what my skin even needs?
Take a deep breath, gorgeous. We’re doing this together.
📊 Step 1: Know Your Skin Type
Your glow starts with knowing your skin. Are you:
- Dry: Tight, flakey, or dull?
- Oily: Shiny by midday, prone to breakouts?
- Combo: Dry cheeks, oily T-zone?
- Sensitive: Easily irritated or red?
Pro Tip: Wash your face, don’t apply anything for 30 mins, then check: dry = tight; oily = shine; combo = both.
Once you know, picking products gets way easier (and less expensive).
Product Toolkits by Skin Type:
- Dry: First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream
- Oily: Paula’s Choice BHA Liquid Exfoliant
- Combo: CeraVe Foaming Cleanser
- Sensitive: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Cleanser
Understanding your skin is like reading a love letter from your body. It tells you what it needs, what it’s missing, and how to care for it. The more you listen, the more you’ll glow from within.
🌿 Step 2: Build Your Starter Skincare Routine
Keep it simple. You only need three basics:
- Gentle Cleanser (not harsh or drying)
- Moisturizer (hydrating but not greasy)
- SPF 30+ (daily, even when it’s cloudy)
Example Routine:
- Cleanser: CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser
- Moisturizer: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel
- Sunscreen: EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
Extra Essentials:
- Garnier Micellar Water for removing makeup gently
- The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 for added hydration boost
You don’t need a drawer full of products to get started. Focus on creating a habit: wash your face, hydrate it, and protect it. That alone will transform your skin over time. And don’t forget to be gentle — your skin is your friend, not your enemy.
👗 Step 3: Beginner Makeup That Slays
Makeup should feel fun, not frustrating. Here’s your no-fail starter kit:
- Tinted Moisturizer or BB Cream: Light coverage, skin-like finish
- Cream Blush: Blends with fingers
- Mascara: Defines your whole look
- Clear Brow Gel: Instant polish
- Lip Balm with Tint: Soft + pretty
Julie’s Picks:
- Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Concealer
- Tower 28 BeachPlease Blush
- Essence Lash Princess Mascara
- e.l.f. Clear Brow & Lash Mascara
- Burt’s Bees Tinted Lip Balm
Less is more. You don’t have to be a makeup artist to feel beautiful. Start with one product that makes you feel confident, and build from there. Confidence is the prettiest thing you can wear.
💬 Step 4: What Not To Do (Mistakes I Made So You Don’t Have To)
- Don’t skip SPF (even if you’re indoors)
- Don’t over-exfoliate (2x/week max!)
- Don’t sleep in makeup (ever, babe)
- Don’t copy a routine without checking your skin type
Helpful Must-Haves:
- Makeup Eraser Cloths for gentle makeup removal
- Cosrx BHA Blackhead Power Liquid for clear pores without scrubbing
I used to think more was more. I piled on products and scrubbed my skin raw, chasing results. But glowing skin doesn’t come from stress. It comes from understanding and treating your face with the same love you give to others.
🚀 Step 5: Grow Your Glow (Next Steps!)
Once your basics are solid:
- Add a serum (Vitamin C in AM / Retinol in PM)
- Use a clay mask 1-2x/week for deep clean
- Try facial tools (ice rollers, gua sha, etc.)
- Explore clean beauty or K-beauty if you’re curious
Julie Loves:
- TruSkin Vitamin C Serum
- The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane
- Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay
- Esarora Ice Roller
This stage is about discovering what makes you feel good. Everyone’s glow looks different. Some love a 5-step nighttime ritual. Others light a candle, roll their face, and call it a day. There’s no wrong way to glow.
💫 Final Glow Words
Your glow-up isn’t a race. It’s a journey. And it’s so much more than just skin. It’s about how you care for yourself, speak to yourself, and show up for yourself.
Every time you wash your face with intention, choose a moisturizer that makes you smile, or wear mascara even if you’re just at home — that’s glow work. You’re building a ritual of love.
Be gentle with yourself.
Start where you are.
Stay consistent.
And don’t forget: I’m cheering for you every step of the way.
Love,
Julie ✨
