How to not look tired
(even when you definitely are)
Let’s start by stating the obvious: The best way to not look tired is to get enough sleep.
But sometimes, life has other plans. Like this past weekend, we had back-to-back galas. I had the time of my life… and I’m still exhausted. My Oura ring has been aggressively unhelpful, telling me things like “your biometrics show signs of major strain.” Thank you so much for that, Oura.
I’m also someone who’s naturally prone to dark circles under my eyes—so much so that my parents can tell immediately if I’m sick, sleep-deprived, or just doing too much. It shows up on my face before I’ve even said hi.
So over the years, I’ve developed a little ritual. A toolkit for those mornings when I need to look like I got eight hours, even when I absolutely did not. Here’s the step-by-step I swear by:
1. Wake up + rinse it off
Even if you don’t feel human yet, water helps. A warm (or cold, if you dare) shower resets your nervous system, improves circulation, and signals to your brain that the day has started. If you have time, dry brush beforehand.
Bonus: moisturize while your skin is still damp. This is especially important if you live somewhere like Boston where the air is always trying to betray you.
2. Chill your face, literally
If I could only bring one thing to a desert island, it might be this. Ice rolling de-puffs my whole face, especially around my eyes and jaw. It also helps release tension if you’re anxious and grind your teeth in your sleep.
I’m obsessed with the Skinny Confidential Ice Roller, and I have the full size and the travel size. I keep it in my freezer and normally take it out right before my shower so it’s ready and waiting for me as soon as I get out.
3. Eye patches, always
I am that girl who wears under-eye patches in public, and I’m not sorry about it. I leave them on for at least 30 minutes in the morning, and yes, they make a difference.
My go-to right now: the Matcha Eye Patches by Clearstem x Alyssa Lynch. They’re the only ones I’ve found that actually stay on while I move around. A close second: the Summer Fridays Jet Lag Eye Patches, which are super hydrating and cute.
4. Red light reset
I resisted buying a red light mask for a long time, but after doing some research, I finally got the Omnilux Contour Face Mask. Is it perfect? No. It doesn’t fit my face as well as I’d like, but that might be a me problem. Still, I believe in it.
Red light helps with wrinkles, acne, redness, scars—all the fun things your late 20s bring to the table. I put it on for 10 minutes while listening to a podcast or calling my parents. If you meditate, this is a great time for that too (I’m… not quite there yet).
5. Hydration station
If your skin’s dull, tight, or tired, hydration is always step one. I became a Barbara Sturm girl after getting a facial at her London boutique in 2022, and I’ve never looked back.
Her Hyaluronic Serum is the best. Pricey? Yes. Worth it? Also yes. It instantly plumps your skin, helps with fine lines caused by dehydration, and contains Purslane, a calming, anti-inflammatory ingredient I didn’t know I needed.
I follow that with the Lifting Serum, which gives a subtle tightening effect—like a mini facelift in a bottle.
While we’re here, I also mix the Glow Drops with my foundation because I prefer a little bit less than full coverage.
If you're new to Barbara Sturm, start with a travel set. They have amazing minis, and their holiday advent calendar makes for an incredible gift each year.
6. Under-eye care
Eye cream is one of those steps I want to be consistent with because I know it will help, but I just haven’t found the one yet. I rotate between a few and hope for the best—and every time I apply one, I’m kind of holding my breath, waiting to see if it’ll cause milia or irritation.
The skin under your eyes is so thin, and I’ve learned the hard way that heavy formulas are not my friend. I’m looking for something lightweight, hydrating, and effective without being too rich or greasy.
If you have a holy grail rec, please let me know in the comments. Until then, the search continues!
7. SPF (even if it’s cloudy)
If your skin’s already dry or dull, the last thing you need is sun damage. I go for a dewy-finish sunscreen that doubles as a glow booster and primer. I’m currently loving the Kosas DreamBeam because it’s all of these things.
Apply generously, and don’t forget your neck, hands, and ears (my ears got sunburnt recently, and I wouldn’t wish that on my worst enemy).
8. Just a little cover-up
I use the Make Up For Ever concealer with this brush from TikTok shop and I’ll never go back to finger blending. I apply under the eyes, around my nose, and a bit on my chin and eyelids. Just enough to brighten without looking caked.
Extras that help:
1. Morning workout
A walk, a stretch, a pilates class, anything to get your blood flowing.
But let me be clear: I used to force myself into early workouts on 5-6 hours of sleep. Not anymore. These days, I’d rather get the extra hour of rest. Your body needs recovery more than it needs a 6am spin class!
2. A bright outfit or pop of color
When you’re tired, avoid black and gray if you can because they can wash you out. I go for white, pink, or something warm-toned near my face to help reflect light and trick the eye.
TL;DR: tired happens. But looking tired? Optional.
This routine doesn’t take long, but it makes me feel like I’m taking care of myself and that energy carries into the rest of my day.
And tonight? Maybe (just maybe) we actually listen to our Oura rings and get to bed before midnight.
PSA: The Sephora Sale is happening until 4/14, so I’ve linked all the above products that are available there for your convenience. Go forth and stock (or restock) accordingly!
Until Sunday,
Taylor