Dull skin lacks radiance and luminosity, and goes hand in hand with an uneven skin texture, which makes skin appear bumpy, patchy or rough to the touch. A dull and uneven complexion also doesn’t reflect light well due to its rough texture.
Your lifestyle or genetics (intrinsic) and environmental stressors (extrinsic) can contribute to dull and uneven skin. There are also a number of different reasons why your skin appears dull or lacklustre. Keep reading to learn some of the most common causes of dull and uneven skin, and what you could do to treat this skin concern and restore a more radiant complexion.
CAUSE #1
CAUSE: Dead skin cell buildup
SOLUTION: Exfoliate at least once a week
A rough and uneven skin texture can result from a buildup of dead skin cells. It’s important to exfoliate at least once a week to get rid of dead skin cells that accumulate on the surface of your skin. Studies show that exfoliation promotes the skin cell turnover process, making it a key step in your skincare routine to transform dull skin into a more radiant one.
Be careful when exfoliating as over-exfoliating can irritate your skin and compromise your skin barrier. Stick to exfoliating at least once a week and at least twice a week if you have oily skin.
WE RECOMMEND: Rodial Glycolic Booster Drops
These glycolic drops work effectively to get rid of dead skin cells to reveal smoother and a more even complexion, and most importantly, a healthy glow.
CAUSE #2
CAUSE: Aging
SOLUTION: Hydration is key
As we age, especially as you enter your mid to late 20s, our skin cell turnover starts to slow down and there is a reduction in natural moisturising factors (NMFs) that occur naturally in the skin. This causes our skin to appear less plump and firm as it once was. Aging affects our skin as a slow skin cell turnover can also result in a buildup of dead skin cells, which causes a dull and uneven-looking complexion.
To keep your skin plump and soft, hydration is key. Make sure you’re moisturising every day and start incorporating more hydrating products into your daily skincare routine, such as hydrating toners, essences or serums. Keeping your skin hydrated helps smooth out the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It’s also important to apply sunscreen to protect your skin from extrinsic aging.
WE RECOMMEND: Murad Intense Recovery Cream
This comforting cream for your face and eyes helps to reduce the visible signs of stress-induced ageing as well as redness.
CAUSE #3
CAUSE: Environmental Aggressors
SOLUTION: Cleanse properly to get rid of impurities and protect skin with antioxidants
Environmental stressors, such as pollution or UV rays, can break down the skin’s collagen and cause dull and uneven skin. To strengthen your skin’s defenses against environmental stressors, make sure that you’re cleansing your skin properly every night. Use a gentle but effective cleanser to get rid of all traces of dirt, sweat, excess oil and makeup from your skin.
Incorporate antioxidants in your regimen, like a vitamin C serum, to brighten dull skin while protecting it against environmental stressors.
WE RECOMMEND: Sarah Chapman Ultimate Cleanse + Origins Into The Glow Brightening Serum
This glow-inducing cleanser melts away impurities and a day’s worth of makeup while brightening the skin. Follow with this vitamin C serum to protect your skin barrier, brighten your complexion and help you achieve smoother skin.
CAUSE #4
CAUSE: Dehydration
SOLUTION: Use products that don’t just hydrate skin, but also lock in moisture
One of the next main causes of dull and uneven skin is dehydration. When your skin is dehydrated, it also feels rough to the touch, which prevents your skin from reflecting light.
To fix this, add hydrating products (humectants) to your routine. Look for ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, panthenol or glycerin. It’s also important to add emollients or occlusives to lock in hydration and prevent water loss. Go for a rich moisturiser that is rich in fatty acids or ceramides to soothe and protect your skin.
WE RECOMMEND: Murad Intense Recovery Cream
This cream deeply moisturises dry or dehydrated skin. Use it day and night for all-day hydration.
CAUSE #5
CAUSE: Unhealthy lifestyle choices
SOLUTION: Practice more self-care
Did you know that stress can cause skin issues? A lack of sleep, poor diet or chronic stress can lead to skin that looks grey and dull. If you want your skin to look more radiant and healthy-looking, consider making changes in your lifestyle or follow a self-care routine that works for you.
Besides getting enough sleep and trying to manage your stress better, you can also count on products that can instantly calm, soothe and moisturise stressed-out skin.
WE RECOMMEND: REN Clean Skincare Evercalm Ultra Comforting Rescue Mask
This rescue mask is a quick and effective way to instantly rescue a compromised or stressed-out complexion while restoring your skin’s natural glow.
Check out our LiB Beauty Solutions for more information on how to treat dull and uneven skin.
You can view all of our available LiB Beauty Solutions here.
Written by: Romy Rose Reyes
IMPORTANT NOTICE: The information detailed is intended to provide non-medical guidance to the issues outlined. The content and recommendations provided are not intended to replace any clinical or medical advice. We recommend you follow the instructions provided by the brands for each/any of the products mentioned.
