Gym makeup is a thing, right?
If dressing for the job you want is a thing then surely getting fly for the lifestyle you're building has to be one too. Right?
Jump to 5-Step Gym Ready Routine
Transparent moment: The gym is not my happy place.
I know that's supposed to be the goal or whatever but I legit still have to make myself want to go, even when I actually wanna go. Planet Fitness has done a great job of creating a low-maintenance, high-chill gym vibe complete with massage chairs that get you right, nonpretentious machines that connect with Apple Watch, and a really cool-looking jungle gym thing that I'm sure is effective but I only use for basic stretches... and did I mention the hydro massage chairs? It's a dope spot for a gym mouse in training like myself to build up to the daily 3-mile walk I aspire to. Yet I still loathe the thought of being there, day in and day out.
Earlier in the year, I was listening to an episode of the Affirmations for Black Girls Podcast, and the guest, @briablack_, shared her experience of exposing herself to the idea of "luxury living" as a daily practice of taking life up a small notch every day. One way they mentioned specifically was spraying perfume before going to the gym... #mindBLOWN! It made so much sense as a pre-workout treat for the senses, but I'd never considered it because I saw it as a waste. But that begs the question of why I saw a pleasure that was specifically for me as a waste... Yea, gon and sit with that for a second friend. mmm hmmm.
After hearing this episode I immediately started thinking of other ways that I could introduce "luxury" into my daily life. I quickly came to realize how many small moments of pleasure I was denying myself by deeming them luxuries and therefore reserved for special occasions or for the benefit of someone else to experience like the candles I had all around the house but rarely lit, the big fluffy towels that had been in my cart for months but were never purchased, aesthetically pleasing dishes, and higher-quality foods. I had been conditioned to believe that the things that bring me heightened moments of good feelings should be rationed out based on a hierarchy of human and social value, which included guests, special occasions, and only me when I was deserving- based on a distorted belief around my value being attached to my productivity, income, achievements, etc.
What started as an epiphany introduced by @tyrathecreative transformed into a new understanding of myself, as well as a search for a new therapist, a trip to TJ Maxx for some top-notch, discounted smell goods (luxury doesn't have to mean breaking the bank love!) my following @lavishlyjackie, and eventually #gymmakeup shawty!
I feel, look and smell so good by the time I'm drinking my pre-workout, I can't help but want to go to the gym to show off. Even though I'm 1000% certain no one is concerned, AT ALL lol I feel a lot more ready to conquer my workout and channel Beyonce when I know I left the house looking like #thatgirl 💁🏽♀️
So, here's my gym makeup routine, if you're interested.
Here are 5 steps to elevate your pre-gym routine in 3 minutes or less
Step 1: Clean-ish
Products: COLD Water
I have a nighttime routine I'll share another day, so I know I need to at least wipe my face down before I start the day. I love the feeling and reaction of cold water hitting my face. It's like a mini skin renewal and pre-pre workout cause I definitely wake up all the way once the shock hits lol! I lightly pat my face dry and say a few loving statements to myself cause I really am fine #AF, then it's on to Step 2.
Step 2: Eye Love
Products: e.l.f. Big Mood Waterproof Mascara; Revolution Beauty High Brow CBD Gel
They say the eyes are the window to the soul, right? So naturally, if you're showing yourself a little love, your eyes are the place to put in work right? These three products are all you need to give that "no makeup" makeup look. Open, bright eyes are the key to perfect pre-workout selfies- trust me!
Step 3: Get Cheeky
Products: e.l.f. Putty Cream Blush
I didn't even know that the girlies on TikTok were clamoring for this, but after trying it out, I 1000% concur! Just a little dab on your cheeks and you go from almost ready to obviously on your way with intent!
Step 4: Lippy
Dry-lipped selfies are a no-go, even at the gym. Hydrate, tint, and gloss like you love yourself! I have ALL of the matte lippies from The Crayon Case so I pretty much just go with whatever mood I'm feeling and top it with some gloss, but when I want to keep it simple I grab one of my Hall Pass Collection glosses and give the folks a lil slight work 💁🏽♀️.
Step 5: Hold, On!
The star of the show! This should be a staple in every beauty bag, drawer, or case across the globe. Even when the sweat is running down your face, your eyebrows won't be. What more is there to ask for?!
Optional: Set The Stage
Products: e.l.f. Power Grip Primer and e.l.f. 16 HR Camo Concealer
When PMS decides to tussle on my face, I add these to the routine to give me a little more oomph. This primer is insanely amazing and the camo concealer is perfect for my skin - just a few dabs in the right spot are all I need to look fresh-faced and unattached by hormones.
That's it! In 5 minutes or less I'm giving "she's a 10", practicing self-care, unlearning harmful beliefs, and headed out the door. What a way to kick off the day!
So... what do you think? Gym makeup is definitely a thing, right?
- B