Welcome to January, the month where your December decisions come back to bite you in the ass. Bank accounts are looking like a desert, but your 2024 dump and Instagram pics from Detty December are givingggg.
The likes were worth it, but now you’re left with a combination of sapa and stress acne. Don’t worry, though – I’ve got the ultimate guide to help you glow up in January without breaking what’s left of the bank.
1. Drink Water and Mind Your Account Balance
They said hydration is the secret to glowing skin, but in January, it’s also the secret to survival. Water is free (ish, if you’re not buying bottled). Get a cute reusable bottle and sip away. Every gulp is a reminder that you may be broke, but at least your skin doesn’t have to look like the Lagos-Ibadan expressway.
Bonus Tip: Mix lemon with warm water in the morning to feel like you’re at a bougie detox retreat. (The lemon costs N200, max).
2. DIY Spa Day: The Budget Edition
Can’t afford to visit a spa? Who cares? Self-care doesn’t have to be expensive. Turn your home into a skincare sanctuary.
- Exfoliate: Use sugar and honey to make a scrub. Rub it on your face like you’re rubbing off the memories of bad financial decisions.
- Face Mask: Smash half a banana, mix it with a little milk, and slather it on your face. Leave it for 10 minutes, and voila—fruit smoothie, but make it skincare.
- Steaming: Put your face over a bowl of hot water, cover your head with a towel, and pretend you’re in Bali. Cheap and effective.
3. Walk Your Way to Glory
Who needs a gym membership when walking is free? Start strolling around your neighborhood, market, or even the mall (just don’t let temptation lead you to unnecessary shopping). Walking is great for your heart, skin, and mental health—and a perfect excuse to flex that new two-piece outfit you bought last year (yes, we saw it.)
Throw in a few squats and lunges at home for a toned look.
4. Shea Butter, Your Bestie
If you don’t already own shea butter, where have you been? This miracle product will have you looking like money even when your wallet disagrees. Use it for your skin, lips, elbows, hair, etc. Basically, if it can shine, shea butter will make it shine brighter than your New Year resolutions.
5. Eat Like You Care About Your Skin (And Your Wallet)
Forget about processed junk—January is for affordability and health.
- Vegetable soup: Affordable, nutritious, and perfect for glowing skin.
- Carrots: They’re rich in beta-carotene, which your skin loves. Plus, they cost less than a pack of Shortbread biscuits.
- Eggs: Nature’s glow capsules. Eat boiled, fried, or scrambled—they’re cheap (well, not really but you get) and packed with protein.
6. Declutter Your Vibes
Your glow isn’t just about your skin; it’s also about your energy. Cut off those December friends who borrowed money from you and ghosted you. Block them and focus on attracting positive energy, good vibes, and maybe even a side hustle.
RELATED: 5 Reasons You Should Cut People Off Before 2025
7. Sleep Like Your Ancestors Wanted You To
December had you out till 4 a.m. every day. January is for catching up on sleep and letting your body recharge. Eight hours a night can do wonders for your skin, mood, and general “I have my life together” aura.
8. Manifest Your Way to Finer Skin
In case you haven’t heard, manifesting is the new “drink water and mind your business.” Look in the mirror every morning and repeat: “My account balance may be low, but my glow is high.” Say it with conviction, and your skin might just listen.
9. Learn to Say No to Detty Round 2
You’ve survived Detty December; don’t fall for “Dry January” hangouts. If you want to glow up in January, learn to politely decline every “Let’s go out for drinks” invite. Save your coins and your liver.
January doesn’t have to leave you looking like the consequences of bad decisions. With a little creativity, some DIY hacks, and a lot of humor, you can glow up in January without blowing up what’s left of your bank account. Sapa may be loud, but your glow can be louder.
Want more tips on skincare and general wellness, join the Health and Wellbeing community on Fusion. We also have regular fitness challenges where you get to win cash prizes and other exciting gifts just by participating!
