7 Reasons Your Skin Is Dull And How To Fix It

Every girl dreams of having that perfect, dewy, glowing skin – not too oily, not too dry. But if only dreams could become a reality so easily! Keeping your skin radiant and flawless is no easy task. You could use the best products and get regular facials, but your skin may still seem dull. There could be some specific reasons behind this that you’re probably not able to identify on your own, but that’s what we’re here for! We don’t believe in impossible, not even getting that long lost glow back! Read on as we uncover the main reasons behind your dull skin and give you their much-needed solutions.

1. Your Skin Is Dehydrated

It’s a universal fact that water is extremely important for your body, including your skin. If you’re dehydrated, it will clearly show on your skin. Dehydration hinders the skin’s cell turnover. What this means is that your skin doesn’t shed its outer layer frequently enough, letting dead skin pile up and causing clogged pores and dullness.

Solution: I mean, it’s pretty obvious, isn’t it? To save your skin from dehydration – no points for guessing – you’ll have to drink more and more water! And don’t forget to moisturise religiously because your skin needs all kinds of hydration!

2. You’re Not Exfoliating

Not exfoliating enough can make your skin extremely dry, which is the root cause of dull skin. Exfoliating, either using physical or chemical exfoliators, is the best way to boost microcirculation and increase the skin’s cell turnover. It can sweep away dead skin cells and leave your skin smooth and glowing.

Solution: No matter what your skin type, exfoliating should be a must in your skincare routine. Exfoliate weekly and make sure to just use one type of exfoliator at a time to avoid any skin irritation or damage.

3. You’re Exposed To Pollution

Unless you live in a remote village up in the mountains, your environment is most likely to be full of pollutants, which can damage your skin. Air pollutants, UV exposure, low humidity and harsh winds can all wreak havoc on your skin, especially if your skin is unprotected. Skin exposed to daily toxic pollution is more prone to premature ageing, weakness, dullness and dehydration.

Solution: Apply a good sunscreen (SPF 50) before going out and cleanse your face thoroughly right after coming back home. That’s all you need to do to protect your skin from harmful pollutants.

4. You’re Using The Wrong Makeup Products

Matte makeup is all the rage currently. And if you have oily skin, you’re always looking for matte solutions. But too much matte can be bad for your skin. Regular use of over-mattifying products can reduce the natural glow of your skin and make it seem dull and washed out.

Solution: No, you don’t have to throw away all your matte makeup! Just swap your matte foundation for a luminizing one or a BB cream. If your skin is oily, and matte foundation is the only thing you can use, add a cream bronzer and highlighter for a natural glow.

5. You’re Sleep Deprived

They don’t call it beauty sleep for nothing! Lack of sleep can obstruct the skin cells from performing their best. This causes your cortisol levels to increase, which triggers inflammation that breaks down the proteins in the skin that help keep it radiant and smooth.

Solution: Getting a complete eight hours of sleep isn’t enough. Make sure to follow a proper sleep schedule as well; sleep early and wake up early as well. You know what they say: The early bird gets the worm – and gorgeous skin!

6. Your Diet Is Unhealthy

A wise person once said, “You are what you eat.” While we don’t fully agree – because then we’d be French fries – it does apply here! Not only does a poor diet weaken you from the inside, its side effects are clearly visible on the outside as well. A poorly nourished body can never give you flawless skin.

Solution: To keep your skin healthy and glowing, have a healthy and balanced diet. Eat more fish, fruits, vegetables and beans. Avoid processed foods and foods that are high in sugar, salt and fat.

7. You Smoke

One of the many disadvantages of smoking is its severe effect on your skin. The two main ingredients present in cigarettes — carbon monoxide and nicotine — displace the oxygen in your skin, reduce blood flow and leave your skin dry and discoloured. Smoking also causes collagen breakdown that can make your skin appear pale and wrinkly.

Solution: Do we really have to say it? Quit smoking!