There’s a certain effortless glow that some women carry, the kind that makes you wonder how they always look so put together with seemingly zero effort. But here’s the not-so-secret truth: being “low-maintenance” often takes a lot of high-maintenance planning, routines, and investments behind the scenes.
The magic of this paradox lies in front-loading effort — putting in the work upfront so that daily life feels easier, smoother, and more efficient.
Here’s a closer look at the high-maintenance things women do to remain low maintenance:
Investing in laser hair removal
Shaving every day? No, thank you. Many women opt for laser hair removal as a long-term solution to skip daily upkeep. It’s expensive due to the number of session you need to do and time-consuming at first, but once it’s done, there’s less fuss, fewer ingrown hairs, and minimal effort required – perfect for looking polished all the time without the daily drag.
Getting eyelash extensions or lash lifts
A full lash look without mascara? Yes, please. Lash lifts and extensions give the illusion of always being “done” — no need for eye makeup on most days. While maintenance appointments are needed every few weeks, the daily payoff is waking up looking awake and put together.
Microblading or brow tinting
Eyebrows frame the face, and perfect brows take time – unless they’re semi-permanently shaped and filled. Microblading gives long-lasting structure to your brows, while tinting keeps them looking fresh and full for weeks. The result? A groomed look with zero daily effort.
Prioritizing hair treatments or low-maintenance cuts
From keratin treatments to balayage, women often opt for professional hair solutions that reduce daily styling needs. A strategically chosen haircut that suits their natural texture can make air-dried hair look polished, cutting down styling time drastically.
Committing to skincare consistency
That “no-makeup makeup” glow starts with consistent skincare. Regular facials, chemical peels, or even prescription-based treatments for acne or pigmentation often mean women can confidently skip heavy foundation. Great skin equals less makeup — but it takes work behind the scenes.
Neutral wardrobes & pre-styled outfits
A “capsule wardrobe” filled with quality, neutral staples might seem simple — but building it takes time, curation, and a bit of investment. Once done, it removes the guesswork from daily dressing and creates that effortlessly chic aesthetic.
Nude, natural nails
Clean, nude-toned nails always look polished and refined. Many women opt for builder gel (BIAB) or gel polish every 2–3 weeks to maintain strong, chip-free nails that require no touch-ups. It’s one less thing to think about every morning.
Permanent makeup touches
From lip blushing to subtle eyeliner tattoos, some women choose semi-permanent makeup to enhance natural features. These procedures are high-maintenance initially with healing time and precision – but they eliminate daily product use and reapplication.
Curated wellness & hormonal health routines
Being low-maintenance isn’t just about looks, it’s about energy and mental clarity. Many women follow strict supplement regimens, hormone-balancing diets, or sleep routines to ensure they feel good consistently, allowing them to function at their best without scrambling to “fix” burnout.
Professional teeth whitening or veneers
A bright smile adds instant polish to any look. Many opt for professional whitening treatments or even veneers to keep their smiles radiant without needing constant upkeep or lipstick tricks.
The “low-maintenance” woman often isn’t low effort – she’s just efficient. By front-loading the work and investing in treatments, routines, and habits that support her lifestyle, she frees up her time and mental load. It’s not about perfection — it’s about making space to feel good with less stress.
So the next time someone says, “You’re so effortless,” just smile. You know the truth – and all the appointments behind it.
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Feature Image: Dupe Photos