By Emily Algar
So often, our skin concerns are clear cut: breakouts, redness, hyperpigmentation… But dullness isn’t so obvious. More of a condition than a long-standing concern, dull skin can happen for a bunch of reasons: we might be tired, dehydrated, spending more time outdoors, or slacking on our routine (the list goes on).
Either way, when the skin doesn’t reflect light properly, it can leave us looking ashy, exhausted or lacklustre — all things we’d much rather avoid. Fortunately, dullness is a pretty easy thing to fix. With just a few easy tweaks to your lifestyle and routine, you can cure dull skin and enjoy great glow seven days a week, 365 days a year.
Our six proven dull skin remedies, listed below.
What actually causes dull skin?
Dullness can occur due to several factors. It might be internal, such as a build-up of skin cells causing rough texture, or visible signs of accelerated ageing.
And then there’s external factors. This includes exposure to UV and pollution, dehydration, poor circulation, unhealthy diets or lack of sleep.
Most of these triggers are pretty easy to control (unless your sleeplessness comes in the form of kids, in which case we’ve got some SOS skin brightening saviours below). But with the right approach to your lifestyle and skincare routine, fresh and healthy-looking skin is certainly achievable.
- Get some sleep and drink some water
It’s basic, but our daily habits do have implications on our skin health, especially when it comes to radiance. Drinking enough water and getting plenty of sleep will encourage optimal cellular function. Also, look towards healthy fats like avocados, nuts and oily fish to top up omega-3-fatty acids. Antioxidant-rich picks like citrus, berries and dark leafy greens are also some of the best food for skin brightening.
- Exfoliate regularly
Cellular build-up is one of the main causes of dull-looking skin. Basically, when the skin cells don’t lie flat, they can’t reflect light properly. This build-up can also cause rough texture, leading to spots and bumps. Exfoliation is the easiest way to ensure smooth, glowy skin.
If you’re on the oilier side or prone to blackheads, try Glycolic Scrub 14% two to three times per week.
Dry or slightly sensitive? Apply Enzymatic Micro Peel a few nights per week. Bonus: you can sleep in it!
Normal or mature skin? Expert Refine AHA Glycolic Toner will keep you looking bright and smooth.
- Think about environmental protection
Exposure to UV and pollution is like a one way ticket to dull skin town. We’re not going to suggest you hide indoors, but we are going to suggest that you focus on environmental protection. Sunscreen is an obvious one. Face The Day SPF 50+ defends against UV and blue light without the heavy, greasy sunscreen feel. And then we have Vitamin C. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that prevents the damaging effects of the environment – of all the skincare ingredients, it’s one that’s synonymous with glow. Use it daily to brighten the skin and fight signs of dullness.
Try:
10% Vitamin C Super Serum: a highly active daily serum for bright, firm, bouncy skin.
Vitamin C Ceramide Moisturiser: not only does this moisturiser protect and brighten the skin long term, but also provides an immediate dewy finish.
Vitamin C 100%: This versatile but highly efficacious L-Ascorbic Acid powder can be added to moisturiser or sunscreen to boost antioxidant protection.
- Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate
Dry or dehydrated skin can look dull really quickly. When our skin is hydrated, it’s bouncy and plump. When it's lacking water or oil (or both) it can appear crepey, lined and tight.
First up, focus on water content. 10% Hyaluronic Complex Serum will pull water into the skin, plumping from the inside out.
Next, focus on your moisture barrier and locking in hydration. Vitamin C Ceramide Moisturiser does all of the above while instantly brightening the skin.
If you’re extra dry, add a few drops of Multi-Active Oil for good measure (and glow). Either press it in before moisturiser, or add it to your face cream.
- Try a DIY dullness-fighting facial
Sometimes, life happens and looking fresh-faced feels next to impossible. Fear not! Sometimes, a quick DIY facial fix is all you need. After cleansing, gently exfoliate your skin. Next, apply a thin layer of Expert Hyaluronic Jelly Mask and let it work its magic. It’s super hydrating, and works quickly to plump and restore radiance. Tissue off excess and finish with your favourite moisturiser.
- Try a skin brightening treatment
Feeling like you need a little something extra to brighten your skin? It might be time to try an in-clinic treatment. Our partners at Laser Clinics are experts at what they do. Have a peek at some of our favourite skin brightening treatments here.
Want to deep dive on barrier health and hydration next? Here’s everything you need to know.
References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3583891/
