5 Tips to Liven Up a Tired Face

For the last month I have been completely entrenched in the process of moving. The chaos of this has left me running on a lot less sleep than normal. Add that lack of snoozing to my winter-pale skin and most mornings I don't look like the liveliest of ladies. Luckily, however, I have a few tried and true tips on how to fake a rosy, I've-had-plenty-of-sleep look when you're feeling tired and pasty.

1. Work Out
Yes, this seems counterintuitive; you're already tired so why would you want to work out? Well, it may not be the most fun thing in the world but an early morning gym visit means you get that awesome post-workout glow. A little brisk walking, running or even doing a DVD in your living room will get your blood pumping and wake up your complexion.

2.Drink Water
It may seem obvious, but so many of us skip water in favor of coffee (or nothing) in the morning. After your workout, carry a bottle of water around the house and drink it while you get ready. It'll hydrate and plump up your skin cells, giving you a healthier look. For an added benefit, squeeze in some fresh lemon juice to perk up your metabolism!

3. Use Herbal Eye Pads
When I am really in need of a facial refresher, I use herbal eye pads to combat black under-eye circles and puffiness. You can find these at many health food stores and online. The herbs in the pads soothe swelling and increase circulation, and certain formulas contain ingredients that will dramatically lighten dark circles. I use WEI Tibetan Chrysanthemum correcting eye treatment pads.

4. Use Highlighter
Several cosmetic brands have excellent highlighter creams that will give you a refreshed look. These formulas often contain light-reflecting particles that give your skin a gorgeous glow. Apply your makeup as you normally would, then sweep a pea size amount of highlighter across the tops of both your cheekbones. You'll look more awake in seconds. Dabbing some highlighter (or a very light shade of eye shadow) under the arches of your eyebrows and in the corners of your eyes will liven up your eyes as well.

5. Mascara and Blush Are Musts
Even if you aren't normally the makeup wearing type, these two products are necessary when you need to look like you've had a good night's sleep. Mascara will make your eyes look bigger and more open. A blush with pink tones and even a touch of shimmer will bring life to your cheeks.

You may also want to visit HealthyWomen's Skin Health Center or read:
Sleep Disorders
Healthy Skin Dos and Don'ts
Skin Health

Bethany Porter is a blogger and beauty junkie. She believes in healthy living and that women have powerful potential for beauty both inside and out.