24-Hour Glow Up

For many of us, our return to campus has made us feel weird. Since socialization is a national health risk, I myself have been spending more time on social media. The increased screen time and lack of human interaction has really taken a toll on me and my own self-esteem. I decided a day for myself was long overdue. You know what that means, friends—self-care day!

Although it may seem superficial to dabble into a day full of beauty—I challenge that! For me, looking good makes me feel more confident, stronger and more productive. This is how I like to treat myself. Full disclaimer: you do not have to do a 24-hour glow up to feel better about yourself; real beauty comes from the inside, c’mon now! But, queue the makeover montage…

Let’s begin. I was feeling zombie-like, in a funk, incredibly far from fabulous. Today was the day I was gonna spoil myself. The first thing I did? Made my bed. It felt good to leave my personal space neat and tidy before I began my day. Next, I washed my face, brushed my teeth and hopped in the shower. Afterward, I made myself a cup of coffee and drank a big glass of water, and it was time to embark on my adventure. 

My first stop was Tanning Gallery in Burlington. I personally feel my best with a bit of a faux glow, and I love getting a dark spray tan at this cute tanning place super close to school. They also accept Phoenix Cash, which is fabulous! 

Next I went to get a pedicure. I went to Nail Tymes, which is located conveniently right across the street from Tanning Gallery. I must warn you that if you choose to go on this beauty transformation journey, you should get your nails done before the spray tan. After my pedicure, all of the tan on my calves had rinsed off which looked a bit odd. But, if you’ve made this mistake, do not fear! Once you get, home take a bit of your favorite tanner and go over the part of your leg where it washed off. 

To save cash, I had my lovely roommate paint my nails at home. You can do both your mani + pedi at home, but I just wanted to get a pedi done at the salon for a little extra pampering.

Next, I took my at-home whitening strips and left them on my teeth for 20 minutes. I urge you to get the store brand, since it’s the same active ingredient (hydrogen peroxide) as the much more expensive Crest Whitening strips. 

Then, I decided to get a trim. My hair had split ends for days, so it was time to cut that sh*t off! I went to a wonderful hair salon in Burlington called LaurenTaylor Hair Studio + Spa. They were so kind and did an amazing job. It really felt like a weight had been lifted, and my hair felt drastically healthier. 

Next, I dyed my brows… Check out my previous article to see how I did it!

All in all, it was really nice to step back and show myself some love with some beauty treatments. But remember no matter how you look, how you feel and see yourself is what truly matters. Self-care is entirely subjective, so you do you boo! But, if you need a lil makeover montage for yourself, try out my steps and let me know what you think.