Sometimes, I feel like my face needs a shot of espresso. Even though I got the coveted eight hours of deep sleep, my skin didn’t get the reminder. (I wake up worried about some unsolicited “you look tired” comments.) But unlike dry or oily skin, dull skin is not a permanent skin type. You can change this with the right skin care routine and lifestyle changes. In pursuit of glowing from within, I talked with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Laura Scott about how to get rid of dull skin for good.
Dr. Laura Scott
Dr. Laura Scott is a board-certified dermatologist specializing in adult and pediatric dermatology. She served as associate director of the color department at the University of Miami and now treats medical dermatology and cosmetic skin problems at Scott & Co. Skin in San Diego. She graduated from Harvard Medical School, where she not only discovered her passion for dermatology, but also entrepreneurship.
What causes dull skin?
“Dull skin usually means skin that lacks radiance, looks flat, and sometimes even dry,” says Dr. Scott. “At the skin level, this is usually caused by a buildup of dead skin cells, reduced moisture content in the skin, or reduced circulation to the face (usually a combination of these factors!”
External factors cause dull skin. This is your body telling you that something needs to change. If you have dull skin, try examining your lifestyle and skincare routine to see what’s missing.
According to Dr. Scott, common causes of dull skin include:
- aging. As cell turnover slows, elastin and collagen production decreases, and your natural glow diminishes. Try taking a collagen supplement and using skin care products that increase cell turnover.
- Nutrition. You are indeed what you eat. Excess sugar and caffeine are common culprits in causing dull skin. (Guilty!) Glowing skin starts in the gut. By prioritizing your gut health, or even taking a gut health supplement, you can boost your overall vitality.
- living habits. Factors such as smoking, tanning, or drinking too much alcohol can damage your skin. External factors such as pollution and sun exposure can also dull your skin tone. Protect yourself from environmental aggressors with antioxidants and, of course, sunscreen!
- Your skin care routine. Doing too much or too little can lead to dry skin. Excessive exfoliation or using products that are not suitable for your skin can strip your skin of its natural glow. But an inconsistent skin care routine or one that doesn’t address skin concerns can also lead to dull skin. A good skin care routine doesn’t have to be complicated, it just needs to work for you.
Lifestyle factors that can help treat dull skin
“Lifestyle is often the hardest thing to change,” says Dr. Scott. But it often makes the biggest difference. “Vacation skin is real!” That’s why when we relax and the pace of life slows down, your skin glows. Think about how you can bring a holiday mindset into your daily life, not just for glowing skin, but to make life more enjoyable!
To have healthy, glowing skin, Dr. Scott recommends “a combination of regular exercise, getting enough good sleep, reducing stress, and of course, eating a healthy diet.”
The best skin care routine for dull skin
Using just one product may not eliminate dull skin. Dr. Scott recommends a holistic approach that targets all causes of dull skin. By adopting a skin care routine and lifestyle habits that promote healthy skin, you’re bound to see a change.
Care steps for dull skin
- Gentle chemical exfoliation. From scrubs to serums and cleansers, this step is crucial to “reduce the buildup of dead skin cells,” says Dr. Scott. “A mild chemical exfoliant can be used a few times a week. Lactic acid is a good choice, or if using a stronger acid like glycolic acid, you can add it to your cleanser. Mandelic acid is another personal favorite of.
- A good moisturizer. Look for a product that provides moisture to help plump your skin.
Habits to keep your skin glowing
- diet. Focused on supporting gut health and promoting radiant skin.
- Exercise regularly. Consistent exercise helps promote better blood circulation.
- Replenish. To hydrate and keep your skin glowing, consider using health supplements that can support your skin in retaining moisture.
Best Products for Glowing Skin
Ready for year-round vacation skin? Taking a health-first approach to your skin care routine will help achieve a glowing complexion. But don’t be too hasty—doing too much can cause as much damage as not doing enough. Balance is key, as is choosing a habit you can stick to. Here are the top dermatologist-recommended options and beauty editor-approved treatments for dull skin.
