Usually this comes down to a few changes happening in the skin at the same time. Hydration levels drop, the barrier becomes a little more fragile, and cell turnover slows down slightly. None of these things are dramatic on their own, but together they can make the complexion look flat, tired or less fresh.

The instinct is often to add stronger products or more steps. However, in reality, tired skin usually responds best to a much simpler approach. Restoring hydration, supporting the barrier and encouraging gentle renewal often makes the biggest difference.

Serums are usually where I start, and add in exfoliating acids and retinoids once the barrier is happy.

If your skin looks tired, you do not need to overhaul your entire routine.

Often the biggest improvement comes from introducing one good hydrating serum and making sure the skin barrier is properly supported.

Once hydration and renewal are back in balance, the complexion usually starts to look fresher again.

Small changes, used consistently, tend to work far better than dramatic routine changes.