Does your complexion look a bit lacklustre, or do you feel like it’s missing a certain radiance? Don’t worry — occasional bouts of dull skin can happen to anyone at some point. The good news is that there are many ways to revitalise your complexion and achieve a healthy, vibrant glow.
In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at the possible causes of dull skin and, most importantly, how to fix dull skin for a radiant, healthy-looking appearance.
WHAT IS DULL SKIN?
Dull skin refers to a complexion that lacks radiance and does not reflect light evenly. The skin may appear dry, patchy, or tired and can be accompanied by an uneven tone, rough texture, or visible pores.
WHAT CAUSES DULL SKIN?
Lots of things can cause dull skin, such as cutting corners with your face skincare routine (or lack thereof), dehydration, dead skin buildup, environmental damage and unhealthy lifestyle choices.
Let’s look at some of the common causes of a dull-looking complexion.
DRYNESS & DEHYDRATION
If you aren’t drinking enough water or not moisturising regularly, especially during dry weather (say, winter months or hot summers), your skin will likely show it.
DEAD SKIN CELL BUILDUP
Your skin naturally sheds millions of dead cells each day to make way for new ones. Sometimes, these cells stubbornly cling to the surface, which can give your face a dull, ashy and patchy look.
AGEING
As we age, our skin may appear drier, thinner and less elastic due to a decline in collagen and elastin production. While we can’t stop the ageing process, we can adopt a skincare routine that nourishes and hydrates our skin, helping it maintain a healthy, vibrant glow.
POLLUTION AND SUN EXPOSURE
Prolonged exposure to UV radiation and environmental toxins can generate free radicals — unstable molecules that damage DNA and collagen — and trigger excessive pigment production, resulting in dull, tired-looking skin.
POOR SLEEP
Our bodies rely on a good night’s sleep for rest and recovery, and this process is perhaps more evident in the skin. Just a few nights of poor sleep can leave your skin looking pale and blotchy, along with dark circles and eye bags.
LEAVING MAKEUP OR SPF OVERNIGHT
Unwashed sunscreen or makeup can clog pores and disrupt your skin’s repair process. This can lead to irritation and dullness and may even accelerate signs of ageing — all the more reason you shouldn’t skip a nightly cleanse.
UNHEALTHY LIFESTYLE
If you constantly ask yourself, “Why does my skin look dull?” the answer might lie in your daily habits. Smoking, high stress levels, lack of exercise and a diet high in processed foods are all culprits that can wreak serious havoc on your skin’s radiance.
HOW TO REJUVENATE DULL SKIN
Now that you’re familiar with some of the factors that might contribute to dry, dull skin, you may be wondering what you can do to reclaim your radiance and do away with skin dullness for good. The good news is that you have plenty of options.
- Cleanse every day: Start your skincare ritual by washing your face with lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser to remove makeup, sunscreen and pore-clogging dirt. We recommend double cleansing in the evening. First, use a cleansing oil to melt away long-lasting makeup and sunscreen. Then, follow with a second cleanse using a replenishing gel, lotion or foam to remove impurities while keeping your complexion hydrated.
- Exfoliate your skin: Regular exfoliation can help slough off the dull layer of dead skin cells and reveal a fresher, more radiant complexion. You use physical scrubs or mild chemical exfoliators, such as AHAs or BHAs. Start by exfoliating once or twice per week, then increase frequency as tolerated by your skin.
- Add a serum to your ritual: Serums are the (not-so-secret) ultimate dull skin treatment. These nourishing formulas contain high concentrations of active ingredients that can help brighten, boost hydration and reduce signs of ageing. Look for products with vitamin C, vitamin B3 (niacinamide), hyaluronic acid, glycerin and ceramides.
- Moisturise and Protect: Proper hydration is the key to combating dry, dull skin. After applying your serum, be sure to seal in all the goodness with a nourishing facial moisturiser or oil AM and PM. For lacklustre skin around the eye area, we recommend using a rich eye cream to hydrate and brighten. Don’t forget to protect your newly rejuvenated skin with SPF during the day. For an extra moisture boost, spritz a hydrating face mist whenever you need a quick pick-me-up throughout the day.
- Pamper yourself with a Face Mask: A weekly face mask can be the cherry on top of your glowy routine. Look for masks that contain antioxidants, hydrating humectants and soothing ingredients.
- Change Lifestyle Habits: Even with a solid skincare routine, your lifestyle still plays a role in your skin’s appearance. Stay hydrated, aim for 7-8 hours of quality shuteye each night, throw in a couple of workouts, find ways to manage stress and nourish your body with a balanced diet. You’ve got this!For an all-over glow, browse our range of skincare essentials — from brightening dull skincare products to nourishing lip, hand and body care.
