There are several reasons why you might always look tired, including lifestyle habits and health concerns.
Here are some possible causes and solutions:
Lack of sleep: This is the most common reason for tired-looking skin. Make sure you get enough quality sleep time, ideally 7-9 hours per night for adults. Try to stick to a consistent sleep schedule and avoid prone sleeping positions that can cause fluid buildup in the eye area.
Too much caffeine: Excessive caffeine intake can dehydrate the skin and make it appear dull, wrinkled, and dry. Limit your caffeine intake to a maximum of 400 mg (equivalent to 2 cups of coffee) per day and stay hydrated by drinking at least 2 liters of water daily.
Diet: A diet that’s lacking in essential nutrients can show up in your skin. Make sure you’re eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Thinner under-eye skin: As you age, the skin under your eyes becomes thinner, making it more prone to dark circles and wrinkles. Use a good quality eye cream to reduce the appearance of dark circles and puffiness, and consider using a thin layer of concealer under your eyes to cover up any blemishes or discoloration.
Sun damage: Sun exposure can break down collagen, which is essential for maintaining skin elasticity. This can lead to wrinkles and sagging, both of which can contribute to a tired look.
Dehydration: Dehydrated skin can make you look tired, even after a good night’s sleep. Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated, and consider using a hyaluronic acid filler such as tear trough filler to add volume beneath the eye and reduce a ‘sunken’ look.
Eye strain: Staring at a computer screen all day or squinting to see far-away signs or while reading can strain your eyes, causing the blood vessels around your eyes to dilate and leading to dark circles and tired-looking eyes. Try following the 20/20/20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds) and consider getting glasses if needed.
Allergies: Allergies can cause histamine release, leading to increased blood flow under the eyes and fluid accumulation, resulting in dark circles and puffy eyes. Over-the-counter antihistamine meds and nightly cold compresses can help reduce swelling.
Prominent veins: Sometimes, bluish-black circles are caused by oxygenated blood in the veins under the skin beneath the eyes. In this case, using a hyaluronic acid filler such as tear trough filler can help reduce the appearance of dark circles.
Underlying medical conditions: In some cases, a tired appearance can be a sign of an underlying medical condition. If you’re concerned about your health, it’s always best to see a doctor.
Some things you can try to improve your appearance:
- Get enough sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Eat a healthy diet: Make sure you’re getting enough fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Protect your skin from the sun: Wear sunscreen every day, even on cloudy days.
- Reduce stress: Stress can take a toll on your appearance. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise or yoga.
If you’ve tried these tips and you’re still concerned about looking tired, talk to your doctor. They can help you determine the underlying cause and recommend the best course of treatment.
