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Effective tips and tricks to enhance your natural beauty
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Looking for ways to look pretty without wearing any makeup? We’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll teach you everything you need to know to look (and feel) your most beautiful. While it's true that beauty comes from within, here are some simple beauty and lifestyle changes you can make to be even prettier.

Tips to Look Naturally Beautiful

  1. Drink plenty of water and eat a healthy, balanced diet.
  2. Exercise regularly and get 7-9 hours of sleep each night.
  3. Apply SPF 30 sunscreen every day before you step outside.
  4. Develop a daily skincare routine that works for your skin type.
  5. Dress in clothes that make you feel confident about your body.
  6. Practice self-care, adopt a positive-thinking mindset, and smile often.
  7. If you want to wear makeup, use tinted moisturizer, cream blush, and lip balm.
1

Wash your face twice a day.

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  1. For a naturally glowing complexion, it’s important to remove dirt, sweat, and dead skin from your skin’s surface each day. Wash your face with lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser in the morning and evening. Rinse with lukewarm water and pat your face dry with a soft towel. [1]
    • Wash your face as soon as possible after exercising or getting sweaty.
    • Avoid harsh cleansers with alcohol in them. If you have sensitive or acne-prone skin, stick with fragrance-free and non-comedogenic products. [2]
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2

Exfoliate your face once a week.

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  1. The easiest way to exfoliate is with a face scrub ! Wet your face and apply the scrub using small, circular motions. After 30 seconds, rinse your face with lukewarm water and pat it dry with a clean towel. [3]
    • Alternatively, use a chemical exfoliant to improve skin tone and texture. Follow the directions of your specific product closely to avoid a burn. [4]
    • Exfoliating too often or too vigorously can irritate your skin. If you have sensitive skin, exfoliate once or twice a week. [5]
    • Never exfoliate your skin if you have open cuts or a sunburn.
3

Apply moisturizer after washing and exfoliating.

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  1. According to FAAD board certified dermatologist Mohiba Tareen, MD, “the best time to apply moisturizer is after showering or bathing.” [6] Use your fingers to massage a non-comedogenic moisturizer into your skin. Gently pat your skin to help the moisturizer sink in, and be extra careful around your eye area since the skin is thinner. [7]
    • Give the moisturizer a few minutes to soak in before applying makeup or other skincare products.
    • If you have dry skin, Tareen recommends using “a ceramide-based moisturizer ” to “help the skin hold onto moisture.” [8]
    • If you have acne-prone skin, you might be tempted to skip moisturizer, but dry skin can make your acne worse. As long as you're using an oil-free and non-comedogenic moisturizer, you’ll be fine. [9]
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4

Brush your teeth with a whitening toothpaste.

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  1. There are lots of teeth-whitening products out there, so start with a whitening toothpaste and see how that works for you. For quicker results, opt for whitening strips or at-home whitening trays . They usually have higher concentrations of hydrogen peroxide to lighten your teeth. You can always visit your dentist for a professional whitening treatment for more dramatic results. [10]
    • Look for whitening products that have earned the ADA Seal of Acceptance (the seal will be on the packaging). These are certified to be safe and effective. [11]
    • Avoid coffee, tea, red wine, soda, and acidic foods (like oranges, strawberries, and tomatoes) immediately after whitening. They can stain your teeth. [12]
    • If you have sensitive teeth, talk with your dentist before trying any at-home whitening products. They can tell you which products work best for you and offer other suggestions. [13]
5

Smile and maintain good posture.

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  1. Smiling helps you look friendly and approachable to others. Plus, studies show that it can make you appear more trustworthy and intelligent! [14] Proper posture—keeping your spine straight, chin lifted, and shoulders back—improves your overall health and self-confidence, and makes others perceive you as more attractive, too. [15]
    • Get the perfect smile by practicing in the mirror and maintaining good dental hygiene.
    • To improve your posture , think of elongating your spine when standing, and keep your shoulders relaxed and your feet flat on the floor when sitting.
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7

Drink plenty of water every day.

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  1. Drinking loads of water may result in smoother skin and a healthier appearance overall. [17] Water is the best option because it’s free of calories and sugar, so try to make that your main beverage. Drinking other liquids, like juice and tea, and eating fresh fruits and vegetables can help with hydration, as well. [18]
    • In general, men should aim to drink 15.5 cups (3.7 liters) of fluids daily, while women should aim for 11.5 cups (2.7 liters) of fluid daily. [19] Teens should drink about 8 cups (2 liters) of fluid a day. [20]
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8

Exercise regularly to stay fit and strong.

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  1. Even moderate-intensity aerobic activity, like biking and jogging, can help you stay fit and feel more attractive. Exercise also improves mood, so you’ll feel better about yourself. Plus, increasing your bone and muscle strength now will help to prevent injuries later in life. [21]
    • If you’re not used to exercising, start slowly and build from there. You could try brisk walking a few times a week, then gradually increase the intensity after 2-3 weeks.
    • In general, aim to get 150 minutes of moderate exercise a week, or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise a week. Moderate exercise includes biking, brisk walking, swimming, and mowing the lawn. Vigorous exercise includes running, heavy yard work, and aerobic dancing. [22]
9

Sleep 7-9 hours every night.

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  1. When you're well-rested, your skin will look better, your eyes brighter and less puffy, and you'll feel more alert and energetic. With all of those benefits, it's no wonder they call it “beauty sleep.” [23]
    • If you’re a teenager, aim for 8-10 hours of sleep each night. [24]
    • Avoid consuming caffeine 6 hours before bedtime so you can fall asleep easily. [25]
    • Try keeping your bedroom cooler to improve your sleep quality. Tidy up your room and block out any light or excessive noise to create a good sleep environment .
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10

Sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase.

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  1. If you want to get a jump on natural-looking beauty each morning, sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase at night! Cotton pillowcases absorb more moisture than silk, and they may increase friction against your skin, leading to irritation, dryness, and premature wrinkling. [26] Sleeping on a silky surface also reduces friction that leads to frizzy hair, breakage, and tangles. [27]
    Jen Atkin, Celebrity Hairstylist

    Try sleeping on a silk pillowcase. "Cotton sucks the moisture right out of your hair, causing dryness and breakage. Silk pillowcases take care of that, plus they reduce split ends, help your blowout last longer, and protect strands from the tugs and creases that can happen with the regular kind. It’s a hair game-changer!"

11

Eat a balanced diet of healthy foods to slow aging.

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  1. The best way to improve your skin health is to eat lots of fruit, veggies, whole grains, 1% or fat-free dairy, poultry, and fish. [28] Choose foods high in omega-3s, antioxidants, and phytonutrients to keep your cells hydrated and reduce free radicals in your body. This includes: walnuts, almonds, edamame, tomatoes, bell peppers, broccoli, strawberries, kiwi, citrus, grapes, tuna, and salmon. [29]
    • Eat 5-6 cups of bright colored veggies daily to reduce skin discoloration. [30]
    • Aim to eat a diet filled with plant-based foods, and reduce your consumption of processed foods and alcohol. [31]
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12

Avoid sugar, processed fats, and packaged food.

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  1. Studies show that sugar, fried foods, saturated fats, simple carbs, and packaged foods damage your skin, cause inflammation, and can induce early-onset wrinkles. [32] Replacing those types of foods with ones that are rich in vitamins and minerals can help you maintain a healthy, youthful glow. [33]
    • Healthy snack alternatives include frozen grapes, popcorn, veggies and hummus, yogurt and berries, chia pudding, apples with peanut butter, a handful of nuts, crackers with reduced fat cheese spread. [34]
    • If you're having a hard time eating healthy, try replacing one meal a week with a healthier option. For instance, instead of toasting white bread made with enriched flour, choose a whole wheat option instead.
13

Wash your hair every 2-3 days.

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  1. Contrary to popular belief, some people don’t need to wash their hair every day! Wash your hair based on how often it gets oily or dirty. For most people, this is every 2-3 days. Gently massage a quarter-sized dollop of shampoo into your hair, focusing mainly on your scalp and roots. Then, rinse it out thoroughly with warm water. [35]
    • Make sure you use the right shampoo for your hair type. For example, if you have dry hair, use a moisturizing shampoo formulated for dry or damaged hair.
    • If you have straight hair and an oily scalp, you may want to shampoo every day or use a dry shampoo to soak up excess oil in between washes. For dry, textured, curly, or thick hair, shampoo when needed. This could be once or twice a week.
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14

Condition your hair after washing it.

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  1. Massage conditioner into your hair from the midshaft to the ends, avoiding the roots. If you have fine or straight hair, apply conditioner to the ends only so you don’t weigh down your hair. Wait 2-3 minutes, then rinse your hair with lukewarm water. [36]
15

Limit your use of heat styling tools.

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  1. Heat-styling tools like blow dryers, flat irons, and curling irons can cause damage, split ends, and dullness. Try to let your hair air dry as often as you can. [39] If you have to blow dry it, use the lowest heat setting and fit your dryer with a diffuser so the heat gets evenly distributed. [40] Other tips to prevent hair damage: [41]
    • Try to use heat styling tools once a week or less often.
    • Apply a heat protectant spray before straightening or curling your hair.
    • If you have straight hair, let your hair air dry a bit before combing it with a brush. If you have curly hair, brush your hair when it’s wet to minimize breakage.
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16

Dry brush your body a few times a week.

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  1. It also stimulates your nervous system and feels invigorating! Use a natural stiff-bristled dry brush with a long handle so you can reach your back. Start brushing at your ankles and work your way up with long, fluid strokes. Use gentle, circular motions on your torso and back. Then, hop in the shower to rinse away the dead skin cells and apply moisturizer. [42]
    • You only need to go over the same area 1-2 times—overdoing it can irritate your skin.
    • Dry brush once a week to start and gradually increase to a few times a week as your skin gets used to it.
    • Never dry brush on skin that is broken, burned, sensitive, or infected. Stop dry brushing if your skin becomes irritated or inflamed.
    • Use light pressure around sensitive areas, like your breasts and neck. Avoid dry brushing your face, since the skin is more sensitive than the rest of your body.
17

Apply SPF 30 before going outside.

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21

Remove your makeup before bed.

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  1. Even if you’re super tired and ready to go to bed, don’t skip this! First, soak a cotton pad with an oil-free makeup remover and swipe the pad all over your face to remove your makeup. Then, follow up with your usual cleanser to get every last bit of makeup off your face. Your skin will thank you for it! [50]
    • Use micellar water to remove your makeup if you have sensitive skin.
    • If you’re wearing waterproof makeup or sunscreen, double cleanse with a cleansing balm before going in with your normal cleanser. [51]
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22

Wear clothes that make you feel good.

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  1. Your style can instantly make you more attractive, especially if you know how to dress for your body type . [52] Choose clothes that bring you joy, and don’t be afraid to dress differently from other people. If you love a piece but it doesn’t fit right, you can always get it professionally tailored.
    • If you don’t know what to wear, go for something simple like a black bodysuit , white singlet, or fitted t-shirt. [53]
    • Accessories are an easy way to add more personality to an outfit. Experiment with various belts, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and feel free to layer them for a maximalist look. If you want to look more feminine, wear a simple cubic zirconia pendant or diamond studs .
23

Practice self-care and adopt a positive mindset.

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  1. Learning to love yourself is one of the most important steps in radiating beauty and confidence. If you speak to yourself negatively, it can make you feel unattractive, no matter how much effort you put into your looks. [54] Instead, focus on your strengths and accomplishments, and tell yourself that you’re worthy and loved every day. Other things you can do to boost your self-esteem include:
    • Make time for activities that bring you joy.
    • Take time to check in with yourself each day.
    • Surround yourself with people who support you.
    • Meditate, get a massage, or take a relaxing bath.
    • Take risks and push yourself out of your comfort zone.
    • Write down what you’re grateful for at the end of each day.
    • Compare your progress to your past self and not to others.
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Have a Transformational Glow Up with this Expert Series

Are you ready for the biggest glow up of your life? It's time to care of yourself, build your confidence, and become the best version of yourself that you can be! Read these expert articles to supercharge your glow up.

Expert Q&A

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  • Question
    How can I make myself look naturally pretty?
    Natalie Tincher
    Style Strategist & Wardrobe Specialist
    Natalie Tincher is the Owner and Principal Style Strategist of BU Style. Since 2010, Natalie has specialized in personal styling to reflect clients’ individuality, confidence, and comfort. In 2019, she was named the Global Head of Styling for Bloomberg Television. Natalie is certified in Image Consulting through the Fashion Institute of Technology. She regularly shares her expertise with corporate groups at major financial institutions, media companies, and news outlets including: Time Out New York, Refinery 29, and NBC News.
    Style Strategist & Wardrobe Specialist
    Expert Answer
  • Question
    What should I wear to be naturally pretty?
    Natalie Tincher
    Style Strategist & Wardrobe Specialist
    Natalie Tincher is the Owner and Principal Style Strategist of BU Style. Since 2010, Natalie has specialized in personal styling to reflect clients’ individuality, confidence, and comfort. In 2019, she was named the Global Head of Styling for Bloomberg Television. Natalie is certified in Image Consulting through the Fashion Institute of Technology. She regularly shares her expertise with corporate groups at major financial institutions, media companies, and news outlets including: Time Out New York, Refinery 29, and NBC News.
    Style Strategist & Wardrobe Specialist
    Expert Answer
    I suggest choosing clothing that complements your eyes, skin, and hair and reflects your personal style. For example, if you have fair skin and blonde hair, you'll probably want to stick to lighter shades of clothing.
  • Question
    What if I am shy and ugly?
    Community Answer
    You're not ugly, you're just insecure. A great way to solve both of these problems is to talk to people more often. Try to have a conversation with one new person each day. The more you do it, the easier it will become, and eventually you will feel less shy, and probably less insecure about your appearance.
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      Tips

      • At the end of the day, you need to prioritize your physical and mental health to be pretty naturally. Skincare and makeup can only go so far, but embracing your natural features, practicing good hygiene, and adopting healthy habits can help you radiate beauty from the inside out!
      • To show off your neckline, wear necklaces that are extremely subtle so they pull your eye in, but don't overpower your neck and face, but it's still the main show of your face and outfit.
        • A subtle necklace can add a touch of elegance to your neckline without overwhelming your look. It's important to choose a necklace that complements your outfit and draws attention to your neckline, without competing with other accessories or your facial features. A statement necklace can also be a good choice for showcasing your neckline, but it should be balanced with a simple outfit and minimal other jewelry.

      Tips from our Readers

      The advice in this section is based on the lived experiences of wikiHow readers like you. If you have a helpful tip you’d like to share on wikiHow, please submit it in the field below.
      • Look in the mirror every day, and find the most beautiful thing in the glass. Realize you are beautiful, and that you don't need to be a supermodel to be happy.
      • If you want soft lips, don't bite or lick them. Use a lip scrub or brush your lips gently with a toothbrush and apply lip balm or Vaseline.
      • Everyone has something naturally pretty, like their lips or eyes. Whatever your best feature is, make it stand out.
      • You are beautiful just the way you are! We are all unique in our own ways.
      Submit a Tip
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      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      Being naturally pretty is all about being healthy and confident, and there are a few small changes you can make to give your look a boost! To start, wash your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser to remove any dirt and excess oil. If you have acne, you can also use a tea tree facewash to help calm your skin. If you currently wear makeup, consider using it less, which will allow your skin to breathe and help you feel better about the real you. To keep the rest of your body healthy, drink at least 6-8 glasses of water and get at least 7 hours of sleep each night. To learn how to use sea salt spray to get natural curls, read on!

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