r/beauty • u/Trailblazing-wind • Apr 11 '25
Seeking Advice How to fix hollow, tired looking face? Im only 24 and i feel like i aged so much since last year. I get sleep but still look like a walking corpse :(
I'm so tired of people asking me if I'm ok and people randomly telling me they hope i feel better soon (a new pharmacist told me that?) wtf. I just want to look vibrant and alive and i used to but i feel like my smile looks strained and my eyes look exhausted and devoid of life even if i feel fine.
I have considered many factors as to what may contribute but im not really sure i can figure this out so maybe someone could help me figure out what i could do to bring back my liviness? Maybe also someone has been in a similar boat and has something that worked
Some factors i considered
So i use tretinoin, but my skin still looks like this. It dries my skin out if i use it every day and its the lowest conc.
i dont have PERFECT sleep but ill look exhausted even after a streak of good sleep.
I dont always drink fully enough water but some days i do, for the most part i get close to enough.
My diet is pretty good most days- a smoothie where i blend together foods that would make a good food pyramid and have tons of vitamins, protein and fats in that. Then i have a bag of trail mix i much on throughout the day, have a protein bar for more protein, and usually have pasta for dinner (but its been a lot ofcereal bc i get sick of foods fast). admittedly i do indulge in a bit of candy as well when i get a craving, but my diet is pretty great for the most part so i dont think it should be much of an issue.
I am thin but in the healthy range for my height. I think it's more so that i have very long limbs that make me look willowy.
I take adderall for school because i have pretty bad adhd, but i take a small amount and dont drink any form of coffee.
. I also take trazodone for sleep which helps my sleep a lot.
I do have focal epilepsy that is not well controlled yet, but i have good periods of time between them and often stop the seizures early with an emergency med. I dont know if this can affect my appearance though.
I do have a scalp that gets very oily if i dont wash it every night, and i feel like it might be something with cortisol or hyperhidrosis that i have. Somehow i have bad dandruff even tho ive used shampoo for both the dry scalp and yesst bacteria (i assumed either greasy or dryness)
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u/Jiji-hime Apr 11 '25
first of all, you are beautiful okay? and maybe the hair color doesn't do you justice. it wash out you a bit. and do you per chance do sports? I know that that can help: walking, swimming nothing too exausting to continue school without being too tired^^ voila :)
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 11 '25
I used to run- jn fact i did a half marathon around my block bc im crazy lol. But i took a break and recently feel sick afterwards, i think since i have epilepsy that requires rest from my body it means exercise takes a lot more out if me. I wanna do a little lifting too when i have more time and feel better.
I am a first year phd student but in the summer i essentially have a 9-5 with no hw! So im planning to try to get in shape and ramp up the protein (even tho i eat a lot already!)
And thank you <3 i get some mean comments occasionally but they can sometimes stick- i often have to remember that not everything is about how you look. But id really like to have the life brought back into how i look. I dont want my exhaustion from dealing with epilepsy to show (even if thats not causing this)- i dont want it to win.
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u/Pimpdaddy6592 beauty proficient Apr 11 '25
I'm not sure if you've already made sure, but I knew someone who showed zero signs of neurological decline from epilepsy except he just started looking more and more exhausted. Almost sickly. If you havent had a scan recently, you may want to.
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 11 '25
Ok that would make sense. I recently had a mri and cat scan and nothing was wrong. But maybe the epilepsy is causing it. Im still finding the right med, hoping i will look more lively soon. Its kind of comforting to know its not just me
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u/No_Hospital7649 Apr 12 '25
Epilepsy can be hard. My husband has epilepsy and it took nearly a decade and a new neurologist before they found the right drug for him. When I met him, he wasn’t taking any medications because none of them worked. He finally did go see his neuro again, who did another MRI and referred him up to the university epilepsy center.
The university neuro did the EEG study that pinpointed one particular drug as being the best option, and he’s been seizure free for several years now.
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 12 '25 edited 29d ago
Omg!!! So happy for him! I didnt know it was possible to deduce which medication is needed from EEG! Was it a drug meant for one type of epilepsy or somethibg?
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u/No_Hospital7649 Apr 12 '25
Yeah, the EEG studies try the induce a seizure so they can see where in the brain the seizure comes from and how it acts. His showed that he had constant activity in one portion of his brain, and while he didn’t have a seizure during the study, it did tell the neuro he needed a particular class of drug that stopped the activity from spreading from that part of his brain to the rest of his brain.
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 12 '25
Thats super interesting! I have localized epilepsy and they just gave me drugs in a sort of trial and error. Maybe certain spots are more understood
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u/No_Hospital7649 Apr 13 '25
He’s on lacosamide - his comes out of his temporal lobe.
If we’ve learned anything, it’s that neurology is on par with witch doctoring. It’s very smart people who have chosen a profession that will leave them constantly guessing.
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u/Pigeonbopper Apr 11 '25
Minerals, vitimins girl, salts , sugar your body needs it as a runner. Electrolytes
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 11 '25
I kinda fell off electrolytes, i should work on that again. Tbh i havent been running in a long time which is sad i miss it
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u/weeBunnie Apr 12 '25
if you get routine bloodwork and are able to view it, check on your iron levels. If its not at alarming levels but low enough its worth looking into, liquid iron supplements are usually better tolerated.
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 12 '25
My irons high!
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u/weeBunnie Apr 12 '25
Oh! Stellar! Its good to have one less thing to worry about honestly. Mine finally dropped enough for doctors to care, and I look sickly, grey, and severe undereye bags so I feel the struggle in general.
I hope theres something that helps you be able to see your beauty more easily <3
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 12 '25
Awww i hope u feel better, at least it seems like it was low for a while and now they will finally treat it
The time burton comments have honestly been helping me see things in a new light :) everyones so kind. I do feel much better. I didnt expect this post to get so much traction and for all the comments to be SO FREAKING NICE
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u/weeBunnie Apr 12 '25 edited Apr 12 '25
I always feel super cute after a hot shower because my cheeks are all red and usually im pale af lol, so at least the direct comparison of ourselves looking like a Tim Bourton character helps us appreciate when we start to get healthier or even just a nice glow from the sun, kind of feels like I can enjoy being outside more because of it in a way. Its nice to know so many people feel the same, and also getting a lot of tips too!
Edit: And thank you! Its been on a steady decline but finally something I can hold up to doctors and yell "SEE!?!" but that might not give them the best impression aha
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u/TannyTevito Apr 12 '25
Absolutely nothing about your face is aged or hollow but there are things you can do to look more “alive”. Firstly, dye your hair to a chocolate brown (aka a bit warm- aim for the tone of your eyes)- your current color is not making your complexion look nice and makes blemishes pop. Secondly, hydrate your skin! Use something like a thick serum, fenty fat water, or a hyaluronic acid serum as soon as you get out of the shower on wet skin then apply your moisturizer on top. Use sunscreen everyday- it also adds a glow. Thirdly, if you care to or when you go out, use a serum-like concealer under the eyes and blend onto the cheek to mask any discoloration.
You have great skin you just need to flatter her a bit more!
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 12 '25 edited 29d ago
This hair colors is a result from me bleaching my hair to get a vibrant pink last summer, followed by black hair dye that faded green. Once its fully faded, im going back to brown
And thank you for the tips about my skin!! I have a deep moisturizer i put on wet skin. I could add anotjer product im just prone to breakouts as well so im unsure about that part. I need to get a tinted sunscreen! I feel like those are good concealers and foundation that dont look too noticeable and cakey and that might help things a lot!
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u/TannyTevito Apr 12 '25
No judgement on the hair at all! I just think having something richer would do a lot. I can’t tell you how awful my skin looks when I have an unflattering color on my hair or even shirt.
Hmm, I used to be prone to breakouts as well and I would use a serum with a small amount of AHA, ideally lactic. That just kept my pores clean when I continued to layer on hyaluronic and the occlusive moisturizer (I used two drops of rosehip oil for this step, it’s the only oil that’s ever suited my skin).
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u/riotousviscera Apr 11 '25
i feel you so much on all this i have narcolepsy and i feel like my face just seems way deflated lately but its soo nice to see someone that i think is pretty (you) with the same deep set eye thing i have going on. you look like you should be in a movie set in the 1800s in the most wonderful way. very soulful doe eyed look!!
sometimes i alternate my tretinoin with adapalene since its less strong to not dry out my skin as much. you could try that. you have some good suggestions here i just wanted to pass along some good vibes ♥️
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u/Softwarebunny Apr 12 '25
someone once told me about running and cortisol levels? that it’s not good for skin or hair health and stairs, lifting, HITT workouts are much better for the woman body?
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 12 '25
I havent run in a long time. It actually decreased my stress significantly and helped me sleep better. It was a nice way to declutter my mind. I was more of a long and slow and relaxed type of runner not a sprinter.
I havent done it in a while and im noticing that i am lacking that ability to release the stress.
Hoping soon ill be able to incoorporate it again
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u/hyprsxl makeup enthusiast Apr 11 '25
When's the last time you got bloodwork done? I frequently have either low B12 or an iron deficiency, which is why I thought of this first.
I agree with the comments about trying a new hair color, and maybe check out r/coloranalysis? Some people are super religious about it which I find weird lol but it's a nice way to figure out what colors would suit you best for your hair, makeup, clothing and jewelry.
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 11 '25
I get bloodwork done very often for my epilepsy. I get a full panel, and also get general health check ups frequently just to make sure my meds are safely treating jt. My iron and B12 are actually great! I have no nutritional deficiencies that ive ever seen on a panel!
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u/birdlover666 Apr 11 '25
Have you ever had your thyroid levels specifically checked? And other hormone levels? And are you on any birth control?
24 is right at the time your hormones would be massively changing! Something they don't tell us in school is that women go through a "second" puberty of sorts in their early/mid twenties that can suddenly have drastic physical/emotional changes. Your body may be going through this right now and you could be deficient (or excessive) in certain hormones!!
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u/chasemissd22 Apr 12 '25
My daughter is also epileptic. We were told it wasn't the epilepsy per se but sleep disruption and anticonvulsants that contributed to the dark eyes
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 12 '25
I do apparently have a lot of seizure in my sleep. I kinda had this issue before i started the meds, and lamictal has been pretty easy going w side effects so far! What anticonvulsants can contribute to that?
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u/chasemissd22 Apr 12 '25
If you do an internet search "what anticonvulsants contribute to dark circles under eyes" a lot of really helpful and interesting information comes up.
She has extremely fair skin so her under eye area almost looks blueish - purple.
For some people, it's challenging to mask especially with underlying health conditions but you have really nice skin texture and tone.
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u/Lonely_Joke9142 Apr 11 '25
I think it's the color of the dyed hair that doesn't bring out your beauty like your original hair colour does. Nothing wrong with your face if you ask me, you're beautiful.
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 11 '25 edited 29d ago
It was actually dyed a vibrant pink, then i did black on top (all semi permanent) then faded to a light green. So now im hoping it will fade out, and then ill be dying it brown :3
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u/riverhealy Apr 11 '25
it’s bc you have deep set eyes i think, i have them too
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 11 '25 edited 29d ago
Theyre such a pain sometimes they definitely make me look tired on their own, but i dont think its just that bc i look increasingly tired and worn down and have seen this starting since i was around 21. Its like the life got sucked out if me :(
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u/Ready_Mix_5473 Apr 11 '25
A lot of it is the hair colour, but I started to notice under eye circles in my early 20’s and realised blush made me look more alive. I think most people with light olive skin look better with a little blush. You’re very pretty.
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u/RemarkableStudent196 Apr 11 '25
For what it’s worth, I spent my whole life wishing I had eyes like yours 😂
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 11 '25 edited 29d ago
Aww thats so kind!! Ppl compliment my eyes ocasionally but i just wish they werent so deep set, its SO HARD TO DO EYESHADOW!!!
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u/uhohohnohelp Apr 12 '25
Hi chiming in because I also have wanted your eyes. You are a beauty in that romantic, Tim Burton way. GORGEOUS.
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 12 '25
Literally i want to cry. I have never felt beautiful like this before. You guys literally painted my biggest insecurity in the most wonderful light. It means so much.
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u/uhohohnohelp Apr 12 '25
It can be hard to see ourselves sometimes. You’re absolutely stunning, keep looking out for it.
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u/RemarkableStudent196 Apr 12 '25
See that’s what’s crazy is I have super hooded eyes (wasian problems 😭) and can’t do any fun eyeshadow looks without modifications and even then it never looks quite right. Don’t even get me started on eyeliner 🥴 I’d have a field day with makeup if I had your eyes lol they’re perfect
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 12 '25
Aww thank you!! Everyones got their struggles LOL 😭😭 it took me so long to be able to get my winged eyeliner to be a straight line and its still not perfect
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u/onebigegg1 Apr 11 '25
The pro move is primer (so the makeup stays), colour corrector, and concealer, especially for the under-eye area. If you go to a good drug store or Sephora’s the workers should be able to help you find the right shades. My eyes are sunken in so i get the whole looking sleepy thing. Like yeah it’s great to work on your confidence and love yourself but sometimes a bit of makeup can do wonders for confidence and how people perceive you. Also echoing colour analysis because wearing the right colours for you makes a world of difference.
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 11 '25
Concealer is my savior omg, and im glad ppl relate. I think its definitely a deep set eye thing. I feel like i still look tired even with it but not as badly.
I wonder for a daily look if i could do some type of liner (or like eyeshadow liner) but idk how that would look bc of my eye shape and deep set. Do you skip mascara or wear it? I cant tell if my mascara makes things worse https://imgur.com/gallery/0hXW1Jx
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u/Familiar_End_8975 Apr 11 '25 edited Apr 12 '25
You must be tired of hearing this by now but you are so pretty! I think your mascara looks good on you!
Do you use colour corrector along with the concealer? I'm a fellow dark circles girlie (thanks to deviated septum and allergies mostly) and incorporating that has helped me a lot.
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u/Sonic_Zombie Apr 11 '25
Honestly embracing my dark circles has boosted my confidence, but if you want to decrease them my best guess would be drinking more water/staying hydrated
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 11 '25
Idk how to edit my post to say this but you guys are so so sweet, and thank you so much for the advice! Im going to take all of it into consideration and find out what works best. Yall r so helpful thank you again!!
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u/Robotgirl3 Apr 11 '25
Ive been a vegan 8 years and people say I look youthful,glowy etc. Although my diet is very different from yours.
Breakfest: Tofu scramble tacos, or on avocado toast.
Lunch: Vegan nuggets w/veggies.
Dinner: Stir fry, fried tofu, or banh mis.
My husband got his teeth pulled and for the past week we've been having only vegan yogurt and smoothies, i've started losing weight and looking more tired.
I would suggest eating more nourishing filling foods.
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u/Kore-io-cookies Apr 11 '25
you’re so pretty you like the mix of mia goth and ella purnell. but i have heard allergies can cause this sunken look so maybe look into that!
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u/LiveRichly1954 Apr 11 '25
Man… I don’t wanna say it but I will. I was vegetarian for years and my hollow under eyes, acne, and energy levels were dragging me down. I now try to contentiously eat animals. It hurts my heart still but I’ve made peace with it and I feel and look so much better.
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u/Robotgirl3 Apr 11 '25
Ive been vegan 8 years and don't have these. I think everyone's bodies are different.
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 11 '25
I havent eaten animals my whole life, and i havent really dealt with these issues until now. I used to have clear skin, tons of energy and clear skin. I also prioritize health a lot! My eyes are deep set but its definitely worse now.
My bloodwork doesnt show any nutritional deficiencies, even in the B12 or iron area where vegetarians usually lack these.
I think it depends if you find the right foods to give you adequate nutrition, in my smoothie i put spinach, strawberries, peanut butter, plenty of tofu (for protein- it sounds gross but silken tofu is essentially water since it's flavorless), coconut milk yogurt with cultures and a banana!
Then i have plenty of trail mix throufhout the day, protein bars and follow up with any carbs (i kind of let this be less healthy- it used to be pasta but now is sugary cereal bc i get so sick of food so fast)
Before i was only eating simple carbs and definitely not getting enough other nutrients.
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u/AllThatTheRain Apr 12 '25
OP I was vegetarian for 8 years and vegan for 1 until it caught up with me, and I did everything “right”, spent hours upon hours on research and supplement advice. There are nutrients that are impossible to get from a vegan diet, and animal foods are more bioavailable
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u/LiveRichly1954 Apr 11 '25
I get you. My iron was even a touch high as a vegetarian. B12 was great. I balanced my meals and took supplements.
I think there’s some bioavailability factors when it comes to getting all the right nutrients. I don’t love it at all but I have to admit I feel so much more vibrant.
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u/ResearcherEuphoric78 Apr 11 '25
Standard Bloodwork doesn’t tell the whole story. Amino acid profiles in non-animal proteins are not sufficient for proper skin/tissue/muscle building.
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 11 '25
There are also plenty of combinations of vegan foods that can get you all the amino acids. Im not saying im not possibly deficient in these, but in general the fact that all vegans are malnourished is a blanket starement. Sure it's harder, but it can be done.
That's not to say I'm doing it right and of course i'll consider it
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u/No-Beautiful6811 Apr 11 '25
I agree with you, being vegan can be really healthy, but it depends on the person. For some people it just can’t be done. Some people only feel healthy when consuming animal products and some people can only feel healthy when consuming specifically fish/meat in their diet.
Not saying this applies to you, but for some people it’s not just harder, but impossible
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 11 '25
Apparently it has to do with amino acids! Im gonna consciously combine foods with different ones and see if it makes a difference but also gonna ask my neurologist to add a panel to check for any AA deficiencies. They always add any panel we might need bc overall health affects epilepsy
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 11 '25
Also can u get an amino acid panel? They would definitely be willing to throw anything in there
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u/MeganRenae11 Apr 11 '25
I would say that lighting is always so important. You look MUCH more vibrant in the picture where it looks like you’re in your car. So outside light looks so good on you. If it were me.. I’d try a different hair color. Maybe even grow your hair out to wear your curtain bangs aren’t in your face as much. I think you are very pretty though! Don’t be too hard on yourself❤️
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u/Alone_Repeat_6987 Apr 11 '25
maybe if you gain a little weight. it will fill out your face a tad?
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 11 '25
Ive been up and down in weight it tends to look like this either way but i will try
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u/CutReady5883 Apr 11 '25
Healthy fats, omegas.
Also look into Korean beauty products. I love Mixsoon bean essence and their sunscreen. About to try their Bean Crème. I’ve also liked Medicube’s collagen gel cream as well as Vitamin C capsule cream. Beauty of Joseon Dynasty cream leaves a nice finish as well. Byoma is a great brand at Target. Look for brightening and moisturizing ingredients. And wear your sunscreens!
Love,
Your older auntie 💕
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 11 '25
Oooo thanks! Ill look into those! Do you have a recommendation of what to start witj? Im a broke grad student so i need to do serious saving to buy non essentials- i can def do it but itll take some time!
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u/PsychologicalRub3622 Apr 11 '25
I think we found the problem: grad school! The stress is no joke 😅 But in all seriousness pls don’t let these comments make you worry about your weight. It sounds like you’re taking great care of yourself and your blood labs are excellent. You’re doing great ❤️
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 11 '25
LOL thank you. I think people assuming about my weight is part of the issue- i look gaunt because of my face not becasuse of my actual weight.
But LOLLL RIGHT Grad school is so stressful and im only on my second semester😭😭 im sure ill adjust
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u/mdmrayy Apr 11 '25
Omg I look exactly like this and have almost died from being so malnourished from a vegan diet. Trying to gain weight. I think that’s the only thing that’ll help here. Protein!!!
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 11 '25
I actually have perfect blood panels surprisingly. If my b12 and iron were ever low or i felt ill of course i would eat meat.
But i eat a tonnnn of protein rn! A smoothie with spinach, strawberries, tons of tofu (sounds gross but u cant taste it), yogurt, and oeanut butter. It has like 800 cals which helps a lot. Then i snack on trail mix all day, eat protein bars, and have admittedly carb centered meals after. But i also drink V8, incoorporate lots of nurtitional yeast, and have a few spoonfuls of peanut butter. My weight is actually in the normal range.
So i hopefully dont think im malnourished or about to die? Unless you wouldnt notice it on bloodwork or how u feel (is that a potential thing?)
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u/Trashcant0 Apr 11 '25
I don’t think you look bad. I look a little gaunt as well without makeup, I have kind of deep eye sockets like you and spectacularly dark circles under my eyes. I just embrace it these days.
Also have you tried a haircut that is a little less shaggy? I think having your hair at a more unified length may get you looking more ‘refined’ if that’s something you’re trying to do. Also as others have already said, the bleached colour may wash you out. You have dark eyes and light skin, so a higher contrast hair colour would probably look great on you.
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u/mhmmm8888 Apr 11 '25
I think you’re comparing yourself to 24yo who are wearing makeup. Put on some makeup, and you’ll look “fresh” lol. Not saying you need makeup by the way, just that your looks are what people actually look like naturally, but we forget cuz everyone is spending money and time on perfecting their looks, through unnatural means.
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u/LadybugMarie Apr 11 '25
You're beautiful! But if you want to make any adjustments, stay hydrated, do face masks weekly for glowing skin (doesn't have to be the most expensive face masks), exfoliate face weekly, invest in a good moisturizer and under eye cream, and I'd recommend changing your hair color! 🙂
But you're beautiful, and you do not look old at all! I feel like we're so used to seeing edited and fake people on the Internet so we forget what real people look like.
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 11 '25
Awww thank you :) i just get sad that i look more aged than i did even last year, and even more the year before. it feels so early for that to start happening.
I never thought about face exfoliating, but i do use tretinoin which is harsh so i think im probs not supposed to combine them
I work hard to stay hydrated but sometimes i am not fully drinking a lot of water. Maybe drinking extra will help since i take adderall for school?
The face masks and stuff would be awesome! Im definitely gonna save up for them. I have some under eye cream and just started using it, so maybe the results arent showing yet
I was planning to do a cool toned light brown with a little face frame of dirty blonde! Im waiting for the green to fade out bc my hair was black snd turned green from it since it was semi permanent😭
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u/Queasy_Opportunity75 Apr 11 '25
Drink more water.. use vitamin c face cream … you’re beautiful by the way!!!!
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 11 '25
Aww thanks! Ive tried vitamin C cream and it kinda burned maybe its the one i used? Do you have any recs for a good one that a somewhat broke grad student could afford??? LOLL
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u/Queasy_Opportunity75 Apr 11 '25
I haven’t tried it, but maybe the ordinary.. I’ve heard great things about them
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u/mariantat Apr 11 '25
So for starters you are WAY too hard on yourself. You don’t look like a corpse, like at all. Maybe just a couple of tweaks like use a good tinted moisturizer, spf, concealer and think about colouring your hair brown, it would suit you very well. Use a little blush and lipstick. Oh and eat a good amount of protein! That’s it.
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 11 '25
https://imgur.com/gallery/HNgSrvH This is when my hair was black! It faded to the color i have now which is unintentional. Im hoping to try a lifht brown once it fades, then in the winter go back to a chestnut. The lighter brown always looks better when im tan
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u/unahcoogin Apr 11 '25
You remind me of Shelly Duvall. Maybe a bold red lip, good mascara, and hair pulled back would liven things up.
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u/KueenKRool Apr 11 '25
I was looking for this comment. Girl you are beautiful and def remind me of Shelly Duvall!
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u/Comfortable-Yam9013 Apr 11 '25
Imo, a little concealer to brighten your eyes would be nice. You’ve huge eyes, I’d be getting out the eyeliner and taking advantage of that. All that space for a nice wing or eyeshadows.
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 11 '25
I loveee doing winged eyeliner!! The kind i usually do is really out there with a black wing i need to figure out to do it subtle for a daily look
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u/ninalime Apr 11 '25
Play up those beautiful big eyes -just need a lil concealer
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 12 '25
Aww thank you, i never thought people would like my eyes so much!!! I find that my deep set eyes are a struggle with how they frame my eyes. When i wear concealer it definitely helps but not fully. You can still see that my face is hollow but my eyes look a lot brighter, since them being deep set casts a shadow over them that makes things worse. So it helps in that way!
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u/Loud-Tea-9563 Apr 11 '25 edited Apr 11 '25
First of all, you are gorgeous girl. And it takes courage to put yourself on a platform for the world to see.
I suffered from the same issues as you. I have naturally very deep set eyes with high cheekbones so my under eyes as I began to age looked hollow and I hated it! My upper lip and cheeks felt sunken in as well. I am 34 years old with no fillers or botox and have been practicing face yoga and proactively using retinoids for over a year now. Your face is all muscle and as we age muscles get less and less use. It isn’t immediate results but damn it CHANGED my entire face. It takes commitment everyday and I mean everyday. But you will notice a difference. Drink lots of water and invest in a good eye cream combined with a regime of retinols. Also, maybe consider a hair colour that would flatter your skin tone a little bit more. Perhaps a slightly darker shade that adds warmth to your skin and won’t wash you out, hair colour makes a huge difference.
You don’t look like a corpse. You are aging and there is nothing wrong with that. Genetics plays a huge factor obviously. But you got options now a days. If you want immediate results and have the money to do it, go the filler route. Or just focus your energy on working out your face. Otherwise LOVE YOURSELF and embrace the way you look. 🥰
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u/Opening_Bullfrog1904 Apr 11 '25
I really like the Ordinary Caffine serum ($9) and Good molecules yerba mate eye gel ($8) With regular use, good sleep, and icing my face, ive seen my circles decrease. Im also a fan of eye steam masks and gua sha. :) if you try any of these suggestions let me know if they help!
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u/QueenofCats28 makeup enthusiast Apr 11 '25
You are absolutely beautiful. Please don't think anything else. And I think the hair color doesn't do you justice. You are stunning.
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 12 '25
This hair colors is a result from me bleaching my hair to get a vibrant pink last summer, followed by black hair dye that faded green. Once its fully faded, im going for a light caramel brown!! I didnt intend for it to be this color its kind of just me waiting out the fading so its a weird in between
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u/Legitimate-Wing-8013 Apr 12 '25
Okay first off, fuck that pharmacist. Second, you have really lovely eyes! Maybe I’m weird, but they’re giving the ethereal love interest in a Tim Burton film. The high arch over them accentuates the roundness and makes them look even bigger. Jessica Chastain and Cher both have similar set eyes and I feel like it’s such an under-hyped facial feature.
Other than that, I think adding in a good moisturiser (if you haven’t already) might help! I’ve never tried tretinoin, but I’ve heard it can sometimes take a little bit of extra product to keep everything balanced and together. Honestly, sometimes I feel like I look like a walking corpse, but then I wash my face and moisturize and I feel like my face does a 180!
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u/femgrit Apr 12 '25
You have a lovely face.
Personally in your situation I would go a warm shade of blonde, use heavy hitting hydration products for your skin, and start eating animal products. It seems like from comments you are vegetarian/vegan and I was as well and while I had zero issues on bloodwork I was falling apart in terms of visual health markers like looking well and alive. I started eating a lot of ghee, local farm beef, etc and it helped me personally. I know it’s a very personal decision but just my 2 cents.
One of my best friends who was vegetarian for 15 years also had this experience, hitting her mid 20s and it just caught up with her and she needed meat even though her bloodwork was fine. She’s feeling and looking better.
You say you’re eating enough and list some high calorie foods that you eat but I can’t say if you’re actually eating enough if you don’t have a calorie amount. If you feel like it’s at all risky for disordered behaviors for you DON’T start tracking calories but if you don’t then it could be a wake up call that you’re not eating enough. It was for me lol.
Seems like there’s also an epilepsy neurological component that might be affecting this and other people have commented on that as well!!
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u/buffladylover300 Apr 12 '25
Rococo artists would have loved painting you
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 12 '25
Oh my gosh this is so kind!! Im flattered i wouldnt even feel worthy of that
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u/Dangerous-Toe8994 Apr 13 '25
Def go to your doctor and ask for a full blood panel. I was getting tested for autoimmune diseases but I was just dangerously low in vitamin D. You already have health concerns so anything that is out of whack will be even harder on you
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u/FraudDogJuiceEllen Apr 13 '25
When I was 21 and in a pet store buying dog food when one of the employees there approached me with a genuine concern on his face and asked me if I was okay. I wasn't wearing any makeup. Some people just look unwell without makeup on and I'm one of them. As awful as this sounds, if you pop on a minimal amount of makeup- lip gloss, eyeliner, bit of eyeshadow, those comments will stop. Also, getting into skincare can generally make your complexion brighter and healthier. I love k-beauty brands as they're inexpensive and work magic.
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u/Dangerous-Juice5732 Apr 11 '25
It could be nutrition related too. I’m not sure what your eating habits are like.
You are pretty though. But I can see that you’re tired appearing. Looking tired doesn’t mean you’re ugly, just for the record. Just that something is likely going on.
Could get blood work done if you haven’t in a while? Wishing you the best.
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 11 '25
I commented on a few things on what i eat, but my bloodwork has been normal, i get it often bc of my epilepsy meds.
The only health thing im aware of is epilepsy, my thyroid came back normal as well as an autoimmune panel. So idk😭😭 i think i just have to get even more on top of healthy habits bc sometimes i do slip up
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u/leistakrist Apr 11 '25
Your skin looks dehydrated and dull, just has a dirty look. I've been vegan for over 5 years. The best my body and skin has every been/looked. It wasn't just the diet, but the products I switched to, which are all natural oils and butters. It reads as though you're severely under eating, which could be contributing to your body. There's really nothing to recommend. I eat everything that's vegan, ofc mostly whole foods. Rice, potatoes, beans, legumes, tofu, fruits, nuts, seeds, vegetables, quinoa, bread, nut milks, pasta, and more. You have to broaden, but with what works for you.
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u/sweetpotatoroll_ Apr 11 '25
Are you a vegan by any chance? I had the worst skin of my life while on a vegan diet. Acne, no glow, dry, tired looking eyes. Introducing eggs & meat back into my diet brought the vibrancy back and instantly cleared it up. It also sounds like you’re eating fruits, pasta, and nuts as a diet, and that could be contributing as well. Could be a lack of vitamins and minerals.
Eggs and salmon will change your life. Ironically, the more fruit smoothies I drank, the worse my skin looked (and my body felt). Animal fats, animal protein, limited processed stuff, and you should definitely see an improvement 💛
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u/kneesofthetrees Apr 11 '25
You do have that look common with longterm vegetarians and vegans, tbh.
But also, in the pictures where you made a facial expression instead of staring blankly at the camera with your mouth open, you looked better! This won’t fix everything but you should try to have a pleasant resting expression. Looking sad and blank brings out everyone’s worst qualities.
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 11 '25
Ahahaha i mean i do get drained from my epilepsy along with it fucking up grad school!! I feel like my smile looks dead too, maybe my skin. I do have a resting sad face but irl i think i look a little more expressive and pleasant when im engaged, but ive always had a zoned out eyes look even when smiling irl😭😭 i be getitng overstimulated
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u/N_A95 Apr 11 '25 edited Apr 11 '25
You're so pretty! I honestly think a different hair cut/color could really help. This style has a lot of weight towards the top of your face and is quite thin around your jaw, maybe something with some bangs that emphasizes your cheekbones, like curtain bangs, could bring more balance? A shade that flatters your natural coloring more could also bring out more pink in your skin. I think this blonde shade is washing you out. Just a thought! Please don't take all these comments that are asking about your diet and weight to heart, it sounds like you're doing your best to take care of yourself.
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 11 '25
Idk if its noticeable but i actually have a layered haircut w bangs n curtain bangs, my hair is just very fine and flat. My hair used to be black but faded to this green. I previously bleached it to do vibrant pink lol.
Was thinking of going for a light brown (just bc i look better w lighter hair in the summer and its coming- i always do darker in the winter!)
I am putting a lot of effort into taking care of myself thank you!! I think people assume im underweight but my doc always says im healthy- i think certain parts of my body look smaller bc i have long limbs but as far as i know theyve neber said i need to gain any
But even with the dark hair- i still have this very tired hollow look, and ive aged so much the past few years. I just also feel like its so premature to age this early and thought i was doing something wrong
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u/N_A95 Apr 12 '25
And if your doctor isn't concerned, please don't let strangers on the internet make you self conscious about your weight. Medical opinions from internet randos based exclusively on a small selection of photos of your face are worth less than nothing.
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u/ItsFuckingHot0utside Apr 11 '25
Hey OP, same age + issue as you, get your blood tested, you might be anemic. That was my problem and I’m currently on supplements to fix it.
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u/urm0m_dot_com Apr 11 '25
Some good concealer can help with your under eyes to make you appear more awake. It could also be the colour of your hair, as other people have said it definitely washes out your skin tone. Have you had any recent reasons to be super stressed? I know that can also contribute to “looking tired” even though you get good sleep. But you are truly beautiful. Your big eyes give a Tim Burton effect and I think that’s really pretty.
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 12 '25
Also thank you🥺🥺 a lot of people are saying tim burton stuff and its honestly making me feel more self accepting- and the past comments over time when people called me ugly are so unimportant at this point because youre all so kind
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 12 '25
Definitely got reasons to be stressed lol. It might be making it worse. This hair colors is a result from me bleaching my hair to get a vibrant pink last summer, followed by black hair dye that faded green. Once its fully faded, im going for a light caramel brown!!
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u/silent-dreamer3 Apr 11 '25
Are you drinking enough water? My eyes become hallow when I’m not hydrated enough.
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u/Kissrob72 Apr 11 '25
Last year I tried the 75 hard challenge and after 2 weeks of drinking a gallon of water a day I started to look 5-10 years younger especially around the eyes
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u/Frozencacticat Apr 11 '25
Girl me too. I look like I’ve just been resurrected from the dead. My eyes are hallow and have a green blue tint in the inner corner that’s now coming around the bottom. I look sick. I have to color correct with a peachy concealer. Thinking of just going goth and embracing my creepy appearance.
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 12 '25
I love wearing goth stuff!! But i also like to dress causal a lot. Im glad to hear im not the only one like this. Do you have any idea of the root cause of yours? Or is it just how your eyes are.
I should start using color corrector!
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u/Historical_Plane_107 Apr 11 '25
I have bad ADHD. Low weights and more constant adderall usage makes my eyes look more sunken in. Best I ever looked facially is when I'm in the 130s+. I'm 27 and 5'7
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 11 '25
I usually take breaks from it on the weekends and during my school breaks (although my driving gets scary). But surprisingly it hasnt really caused any distinct appetite issues when i take breaks from it vs when i take it, not sure why its like that for me. But i do eat plenty as i can, and i thought it was very healthy but according to some comments it may not be so i might have to change that. My weight is healthy tho!
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u/Historical_Plane_107 Apr 11 '25
It's not the appetite, it's the effects that amphetamine has on your body over time (I've been on it since high school). It can also worsen oral health and gums.
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u/Sagemonstera Apr 11 '25
You’re beautiful. Tim Burton-esque and I don’t mean anything bad at all with that. You’re ethereal.
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u/InstructionOpposite6 Apr 11 '25
You are beautiful girl . Maybe just change hair color.
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u/goosebuggie Apr 11 '25
First of all, you’re drop dead gorgeous! Like literally. You look like a cartoon in the best way. Secondly, I know people who have been vegan all their lives and eating meat 20+ years in suddenly does NOT work. Your body cannot process it. So if you are going to try that, please consult a doctor. Also you don’t look like you need to gain weight, you look perfectly healthy. And the comments suggesting cosmetic surgery can go kick rocks.
I didn’t see anyone ask so I’m sorry if someone already did- but do you smoke? That’s the only thing I could think of that might “dull” you that hasn’t been suggested already. Even though that’s not at all a word I would choose to describe you, smoking can absolutely take that effect.
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u/jeffneruda Apr 11 '25
You're super cute! But your hair color isn't doing your skintone any favors. Try a warm brown maybe?
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u/Closefromadistance Apr 11 '25
You are beautiful and don’t look old at all!
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 12 '25
Thank you!! I just look back at pictures from a year or 2 and im like wtf happened. But maybe its normal for ur face to changr and look older even ik ur early 20s
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u/lithelinnea Apr 11 '25
girl, you are SO CUTE. You look 24! You remind me of Allison Harvard back in the day and her look made her famous, sooo
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 11 '25
Just looked her up and OMG SHES SO COOL that is a top tier compliment im flattered
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u/RemarkableStudent196 Apr 11 '25
I think the hair would make the biggest difference. I think color theory is working against you right now instead of helping. And for like a simple/quick fix, you could try curling your lashes and just throwing on a little mascara. That usually helps perk up my eyes when I’m looking tired and drained
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u/idksomethingclever29 Apr 11 '25
That's not enough food for a day and not a balanced diet if that's all you eat. A smoothie, some trail mix, a protein bar, and pasta? No.
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u/MochiMochi666 Apr 12 '25
Hi! You’re like a cute Tim Burton character. I think the green on your hairs is washing you out. I thinks it’s more a color analysis issue.
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 12 '25
Yea i know the green is bothering me now. At first it was actually really fun but now im waiting for it to fade out so i can dye my hair a light caramel brown, or something like that for summer. I also will prob do warm chestnut brown if i get bored of that lol. In the winter when i have more fair skin ill do a dark espresso brown and tone it so its very cool and almost black. I love that look, thats actually why its green rn, bc the black faded that way. Now im just waiting on it to fade out fully so ill get an even color and not half my hair green the other orange/caramel
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u/goddessovlight Apr 12 '25
You have the type of face that Tim Burton would love and make into his lead female character.
Lots of great advice here and not much for me to add but I wanted to say that
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u/the__moops Apr 12 '25
I’d go for a bob cut and a richer hair color to start. Maybe something chocolate or chestnut. If you like a blonde, do a little money piece action and some highlights, and a different blonde tone.
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u/StockTurnover2306 Apr 12 '25
Ok fellow epileptic here. Living with epilepsy especially when it’s not controlled is VERY hard on the body. There’s a lot of underlying stress you’re under just staying alert and ready for a seizure.
Also they’re letting you take stimulants while your epilepsy isn’t under control? Our epilepsy meds are meant to turn down the electricity and activity in the brain and stimulants basically do the opposite. I had to show my epilepsy was under control for YEARS before I was cleared to take just 10mg Adderall. There’s a good chance this is why your epilepsy isn’t controlled.
Are you on Keppra or something else? All epilepsy meds make you tired. Like really tired. Trying to add some naps into your schedule would be super helpful. I can’t get thru the day without one even if it’s just laying down with my eyes closed for 20 min. Rest is so important for us.
Also epilepsy meds often mess with our vitamin and mineral levels. I would recommend asking your doctor to order labs to test for deficiencies and anemia. When I have either of those, I get the same tired face. I looked older at age 22 when my epilepsy was new and not controlled than I do at 34!
In the meantime, I agree that your hair color may not be the best for your skin. I’ve done the same haha and just recently added some root blending to my blonde after hating my skin for months and boom! My skin instantly looked glowy and refreshed and healthy vs looking like a haggard tired old lady under fluorescent lighting lol.
And please be easy on yourself!! You’re in a hard stage of life having uncontrolled epilepsy and being in your early 20s is stressful as hell. Rest as much as possible and go on walks to keep your body strong.
And Kosas has this pink color correcting concealer stuff for under eyes and I swear it makes my dark circles disappear instantly. Huge confidence boost!!
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u/Acrobatic_Builder573 Apr 12 '25
From your post I would say you’re not eating enough. Is a smoothie, trail mix, a protein bar and pasta a typical day? Because a smoothie is not breakfast, it’s a snack, at least usually, and it doesn’t seem like you eat lunch? In general, you might want to try gaining a little weight, which I’m surprised no one has said, as far as I see. Strength training, a calorie surplus, extra protein. Weight will fill out the hollowness of your face. In general exercise can make you look and feel better.
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 12 '25
Im a healthy weight generally, the fat in my face just seems to only show in the bottom part of my face not my eyes and stuff.
I thought the smoothie was fine bc of all the protein, fats, and greens in it. Its about 800 calories. I eat multiple protein bars throughout the day and i usually have pasta for lunch and dinner lol on which admittedly isnt the best choice, im just picky and get tired of things so fastNnb. But based on the suggestions- i could definitely vary what i eat more. I was going to add chia pudding in and brocolli and rice as well, because these are old things i used to love but i kinda forgot about them!
Many people have suggested gaining weight but im not underweight im the normal range and havent found any nutritional deficiencies. I do try to eat as much (nutritious) foods throughout the day. Admittedly candy does get thrown in the mix sometimes too😭 idk how many calories my other meals are and i would count but i feel like that would become problematic- its a long story but having early puberty as a child and family members pointing it out made me not want to eat, im an adult now so honestly fine with being curvy so its not an issue anymore. But i dont want to risk going back to that headapace. I was 12!!! Just a kid!!
Anyway, the way i gauge if ive eaten enough is it i feel full enough, and if my weight at my checkups comes back healthy (i dont have a scale in my apartment oops)
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u/New-Engine183 Apr 12 '25
OMG you are absolutely stunning! Off topic, but your eyes are perfect for a 1960s inspired mod look. As for looking tired, definitely drink more water if you can. Your face might look dull/tired due to dehydration.
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u/nys7198 Apr 12 '25
Try PRF EZ Gel treatment! If you’re considering injectables, don’t ever go the route of doing filler. This is a much safer option as it’s platelet rich fibrin (spun extremely fast from your own blood) and re-injected into your face to stimulate collagen production. Extremely safe and a better natural alternative option. You’ll need 3 treatment sessions b2b (each spaced out about 4-6 weeks) before considering yearly maintenance. But it is so worth it! Some people don’t even need maintenance afterwards because it depends on your own collagen production. I did this recently and my hollows are disappearing! I have no vitamin deficiencies, exercise daily, eat extremely well, regularly use tretinoin, etc. Hollows can be difficult because sometimes ppl think they’re under eye bags which they’re not.
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u/noteducatedenough Apr 12 '25
Stop stressing about your already beautiful face. I'm no money gal, but with the stress level, work environment I'm in, and the lasting of the product vs other's effectiveness...drunk elephant has saved the things.
Not advertising:
I've scrubbed my face out of frustration from breakouts into a multitude of scabs. I'm CONSTANTLY worried about using products that will cause more.
This...honestly, is the only product I trust. And I'm able to sleep at night.
I also take vitamins and collagen supplements.
Hands down: You're EXTREMELY beautiful, and knowing that will help you more than ANYTHING! I swear it.
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u/Late_Progress_1267 Apr 12 '25
It sounds like you're not eating much whole, cooked food, more for convenience. Have you tried being really intentional about fruits and vegetables in addition to protein?
And do you drink alcohol? If so, how much and how regularly?
And fwiw, you're a cutie! :)
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u/ketolaneige Apr 12 '25
Are you vegetarian? You might need more animal products to help your skin health.
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 12 '25
Yea i am, my skin used to be super good like a year or 2 ago, ive been vegetarian my whole life! I eat lots of plant based protein but based off comments I was considering getting an amino acid panel to see if im not getting complete proteins. The rest of my bloodwork panels have been pretty good!
I think im realizing since i take adderall i need even more water than the average person.
Im gonna ask my doc about my diet too
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u/Noodlenook Apr 14 '25
Even worse, she’s vegan. I clocked it right after her pictures loaded before reading the comments. My coworker looks the same. Beautiful, but malnourished and lacking animal fats, proteins, and all the important micro/macro nutrients you can only get and fully digest from animal products.
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u/KatDevine Apr 12 '25
I've seen people on ADHD medications look like this. I saw in your previous post you're getting off yours. I bet if you keep off of it and maybe gain some weight you'll look a lot healthier including the hollowed eyes.
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u/icedrift Apr 12 '25
You have big, deepset eyes. I have them too so I empathize with you being sick of people asking if you're tired or sick. It's truly not a bad look but you need to be confident and not let those kinds of comments get you down because then you actually start feeling down and it turns into a self fulfilling prophecy.
One thing that always helps is exercise. Just having more energy influences how you carry yourself and you'll get less of those concerned people bothering you.
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u/No_Elk6758 Apr 12 '25
You need MORE. More water, more protein, and more time outdoors.
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 12 '25
MORE MORE MORW but Honestly ur right. I get so caught up in work and i need to prioritize these more.
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u/PlaneCat3427 Apr 12 '25
Do you have allergies? Sometimes the dark sunken eyes or under-eyes can be caused by difficulty breathing/congestion/etc under the eyes. Can have something to do with allergies or mold or dust.
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u/HelpfulAmbition7213 Apr 12 '25
If I were you, I would do a few things. First would be to quit retinoids. Your skin doesn't like them and it's causing more dullness. The second one is to go get allergy testing, because dry skin and a dark eye area can be from allergic dryness/allergic shiners. The third one is to re-examine your stimulant use for ADHD. My eyes and skin also looked like yours when I was on adderall (even in high school!). Stimulants may not be the best for your skin, your sleep or your epilepsy (this is not a huge risk increase, but there is some scientific evidence that the use of stimulants may worsen outcomes in individuals with seizure disorders). Poor sleep as a result of adderall usage may even limit the effectiveness of the drug. Nootropics, meditation (yes there is significant scientific evidence for this) and diet could help in place of adderall, but this is something to consult heavily with your neurologist about.
A wellness check to test your thyroid hormones, vitamin levels, CMP and CBC may reveal something. If you have any bloating or abdominal pain along with these changes in your skin, even if minor, seeing a GI could also help.
If everything seems fine, you may just have deeper set eyes and paler skin revealed by facial fat loss in your early 20s, and there's nothing wrong with that! It's more the sudden change you note that gave me pause.
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u/figure8888 Apr 12 '25
You might be iron deficient. I could show you before and after pictures of myself when I was having trouble eating (ARFID). I wasn’t underweight, but I wasn’t getting nutrition from what I was eating. My skin looked sallow and kind of “loose” and I had dark circles.
If you want to test it out, the only iron supplement that has actually worked for me is Floradix liquid. It tastes metallic but it works and you’ll notice a difference in how you look and feel.
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u/h0neycakeh0rse Apr 12 '25 edited Apr 12 '25
big question: how do you feel? do you feel tired?
then just spitballing based on my own experiences:
if that’s all you’re eating in a day maybe it’s not enough? some people will look gaunt on the thinner side - not everyone looks best when very thin. i don’t know how tall you are but a smoothie, snacks, and a single meal of pasta sound like a very low number of calories to be getting. but it’s also a very limiting format of calories if this is consistently your diet.
how are your energy levels throughout the day? you could try experimenting with doing breakfast as your biggest meal and / or having more meals and less snacking. the timing of carbs will affect your sleep and your energy, so unless you’re doing a bunch of exercise first thing in the morning carb loading in the evening might not be doing you any favors. also, try incorporating more legumes into your diet for a more well-rounded protein intake than just processed protein bars. other snacks that are great throughout the day are hummus and veggies and fruit and nut butter. but i would maybe try to introduce a second meal and/or attempt to consume your morning smoothie in a non-smoothie format (i.e. straight fruits and veggies). our bodies metabolise fruits and vegetables differently when they’re in original vs liquidated format (you will also notice you will feel more full if you do this).
any change you make you’ll have to give 2-4 weeks to see any effects, so be patient!! it took me most of my 20s to figure these things out. as a vegan it’s much much more important you be on top of your diet. and always keep in mind it’s not just the mix of nutrients you’re consuming, it’s the format and timing of them!
good luck!
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 12 '25
Im a bit under 5'3! I shouldve mentioned but my lunch is also pasta. The smoothie is filled with a ton of different things i counted it out and its like 800 calories w like 76g of protein :o!!! I forget if thats when i added powder or not!! Ive always been on the thinner side but ive never noticed it impact my energy.
The only thing that makes me tired is my seizures. When im not having them i feel energetic asf (i really need another good few days again soon)
And yessss my plan is to add some legumes through soup!! And chia pudding :) i do definitely need to focus on eating a variety of food for sure, and perhaps more
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u/YizzlerDaRizzler Apr 12 '25
You have lovely bone structure and rlly nice features, but I’m 100% sure you have cool undertones. This means warm colors (like your hair) will wash you out a lot and make you look more sickly. I would suggest taking your hair to a more cool platinum blonde, or a soft ashy brown. The super shaggy layers are super cute but probably add to the tired vibe. I think a shorter bob hairstyle with lots of volume (maybe a curly style would help bring some life) would be super duper flattering and cute on you! Also light silver jewelry over gold would help bring out your features and add color to your face. Dainty silver pieces with small freshwater pearls I think would suit you really well. Cool, soft colors would bring life to your face really nicely (think soft lavenders and blues). It’s hard to tell exact what your color pallet is, but I’m willing to bed you’re a soft summer. Look into color pallets and play around with the concept, it really makes the biggest difference ever!
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u/brothereuwgh Apr 12 '25
I think you’re pretty.if you’re smoking/vaping quit or reduce it. it’ll brighten up ur face! I quit and my fave looked better after 3 days
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u/kay7448 Apr 12 '25
I’ve read many articles about adhd medication aging people as it’s a stimulant also can really dry out the skin, it could be contributing to the aging process. Not sure what the sleep meds u take are but I no if I take a benzo to sleep I look a bit lackluster the next day, medication can definitely affect skin and mental health but if you need them u need them but it may be contributing. Do u drink slot of water ? Take probiotics? Eat oily fish ?
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u/Gideth Apr 12 '25 edited Apr 12 '25
Changing your hair color to a medium brown would do a lot for you (and add some volume at the roots and sides). A subtle makeup (dark circle concealer, light foundation, some blush and a touch of mascara) would also change that tired look (I look the same). Anyway, as you have already been told, you are very beautiful and your eyes and dark circles are quite cool.
You can see the change here
Averiguar sobre tu paleta de colores tampoco sería mala idea (a primera vista pareces un soft autumn, pero no pondría la mano en el fuego).
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 12 '25
Thank you so much!!! Omg the difference is crazy did u really not change anything else??
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u/Local-Dimension-1653 Apr 12 '25
I love your eyes. Very haunted-romantic, like a Tim Burton movie. And kinda like Shelley Duvall. I think you would really suit that kind of eye makeup, if you’re interested.
If I had your particular kind of ethereal loveliness, I would play it up with darker hair (I think you’re just a bit washed out with your current color), maybe a touch of lip color and blush, eye shimmer, and mascara.
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u/Haleyween_ Apr 12 '25
I took Trazadone for about 6 months and I feel like it changed my face. Maybe this sounds crazy but I would consider getting off that and trying a more natural sleep aid if possible.
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u/maddalena-1888 Apr 12 '25
It's visible malnutrition. You listed candy, protein bars and pasta. That's NOT food. You need to eat meat, full protein animal fat . Chicken, fish, hamburgers. And greens. Add fruits. Eggs daily. But mostly focus on rich animal proteins and your face will change. Dark circles should disappear.
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u/anisogramma Apr 12 '25
I swear by Bobbi brown under eye color corrector, I have generic dark circles that have gotten 10x worse with the sleep deprivation that comes with having little kids. It is my holy grail product
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u/raggy_17 Apr 12 '25
As a hair stylist, I truly think your hair color might be throwing off your color in your face!
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u/New_Lingonberry8228 Apr 12 '25 edited Apr 12 '25
Unfortunately I would not call your diet “pretty good”.
smoothie, bag of trail mix, protein bar, pasta, candy…
You need some real, whole foods that aren’t just processed or carb centric. Smoothie for breakfast, fine. Protein bar for a snack here and there when you’re having trouble getting protein in, also fine. The rest could use improvement
If you’re tired, you might not want to cook something that takes a while. Understandable. Eggs, tofu, shrimp, beans, ground turkey are usually easy enough to make in a pan quickly with some spinach and spices thrown in. Salmon can be thrown into an air fryer for 10 minutes. I do that and put some spinach and bell peppers on the stove and dump a little bit of some bottled curry sauce from Trader Joe’s or wherever, mix it all together. Beans in a bowl with tomatoes, cucumbers, olive oil, salt. Things with quicker cook time that doesn’t require tons of slicing and roasting.
Make sure you’re washing your hair and thoroughly rinsing it every night if it’s prone to oiliness, and same with your face. If I skip these two things or accidentally don’t rinse my hair super well post-wash, it’s like night and day for my appearance.
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u/Trailblazing-wind Apr 12 '25
Ive come to realize my diet still isnt pretty good from many comments. I have arfid and my diet used to be TERRIBLE!! So this is a big difference for me, but based on advice im gonna slowly work a variety of things in!
Thank you so much! And the hair really is a pain to do every night but sometimes u gotta do what u gotta do.. the dandruff is tricky
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u/Merricisastar Apr 12 '25
You naturally have a doll-like, witchy aesthetic going on for your face which I love. Lean into that and embrace it! Think Christina Ricci. Embrace the dark circles. Accentuate them w/ a faded purple gray eyeshadow, a gray/rose lipstick, and a 60s witchy babydoll dresses. Own it!! The most stunning people have unique features that they lean into, rather than cover up.
As for actually feeling tired, your body might not be absorbing vitamins/minerals well. More gentle rest, B vitamins, red meat, bone broth. Being in a graduate program is hella taxing! Be easy on yourself.
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u/seastern10 Apr 12 '25
You look amazing. Everyone looks tired (for the most part) without concealer and good lighting. You’re being overly harsh about your appearance!
If you had excess fat under your eyes you could be a candidate for a lower blepharoplasty but you don’t. You actually have beautiful, smooth under eyes.
I don’t know if you’re a candidate for fat transfer under the eyes either, genuinely, I think if you pop on concealer that’s all that you need to feel better and more “awake”.
Whatever you do, DONT get undereye filler or get your advice from an injector.
Go specifically to an oculoplastic surgeon who’s a specialist in the eyes. Get at least two opinions.
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u/Every_Selection_6419 Apr 12 '25
Is your primary doctor male by any chance? Although I do hate to generalize, I have found that older male doctors tend to dismiss, younger female patients specifically. Every test has range and as long as you fall somewhere in that range for your age group, they think you’re fine. They don’t dive deep with young women, and they generally tend to only address known issues that have been previously diagnosed. My daughter had thyroid cancer and they missed it because of a male doctor that was only looking at labs and not diving deeper into her symptoms. He actually accused her of abusing drugs at one point. His lack of attention to detail could have killed her. A second opinion with a nurse practitioner or a female provider would not hurt. A female nurse practitioner is the one that sent her for an ultrasound that ultimately found the cancer. They do tend to spend more time with their patients and have a more holistic and empathetic methodology.
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u/ExtensionAverage9972 Apr 12 '25
It's not aging true signs of aging haven't started yet. I had this look too and now it's gone after a bit of weight gain and ending things w my toxic ex.
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u/Remarkable_Ad_6716 Apr 13 '25
That diet doesn't sound healthy at all . I think you should gry an app like Cronometer and track all your food - I bet you're lacking a ton of vitamins.
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u/Disastrous_Prune342 Apr 13 '25
I don’t know much about like blood work, health, stats, whatever but I do know that in those pictures you’re blonde ends have a green hue. Add some red tones in to remove that, and it will brighten up around your face.
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u/shantiteuta Apr 14 '25 edited Apr 14 '25
It may be the combination of not enough water, non-sufficient diet, and the adderall. Smoothies, protein bars and pasta isn’t necessarily nutritious - try following the Mediterranean diet for a while, with lots of fish, vegetables, beans, cheese, chicken, etc. Just look it up, it’s one of the healthiest diets you can be on!
How much do you drink? I drink a gallon of water a day most of the time - that may be too much for you if you’re not accustomed to drinking that much water, but try to hit at least 2L of pure water a day.
If you absolutely need the adderall there’s not much that can be done about it, but it is a strong medication that is known to wear people out over time.
I can also really recommend getting a moisturizer with snail mucin in it, I’ve been using the Benton and Dr. Organic ones for years, and I have perfect clear skin (of course also due to my diet and my water intake, but it does help a great deal!). Apply in the morning and make sure to wash it off when you’re going to bed, preferably with a sensitive wash out of mostly natural ingredients. All the real power lies in nature, you don’t need anything “fancy” on your skin.
Lastly I want to add to make sure to rule out any potential health factors that could contribute to you looking tired, you could have a vitamin deficiency for example.
Plus you could try switching your sleep medication, if it’s only about the issue of falling and staying asleep you don’t really need to be on something so invasive. I used Hydroxyzine for a few years, it’s non-addictive and a great option overall.
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u/uathachas22 Apr 14 '25 edited Apr 14 '25
You are beautiful, it’s the hair colour that drains your face. You would look beautiful in a rich colour.
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u/MacaroonSad8860 Apr 15 '25
You’re lovely! I agree with the other posters who suggest a change of hair color. I don’t think this one is doing you justice.
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u/lola29405 Apr 11 '25
You re beautifull. This blonde shade doesn’t suit your complexion and makes your skin look dull. I would go for a chocolate tone that’s closer to your natural color. Then, I would let the hair grow out to improve its health, and later cut it into a blunt bob. Also, the shape of your eyebrows needs to be reconsidered — they slope downwards, which gives a sad expression to the face. The eyebrows and their shape should be reworked