Why Does My Skin Look Dull?

Your skin may look dull due to several factors, such as dehydration, dead skin cell accumulation, or dryness. In addition, the aging process, tobacco use, and inadequate moisturizer, as well as airborne pollutants, and sunlight are also contributing factors.

When your skin looks dull, it can reflect both your skin’s health and your overall wellness. Take care of yourself and your skin, and you’ll be rewarded with a vibrant, glowing appearance.

Here’s how you can do exactly that.

Avoid Dehydration

If the deeper layers of the skin lack moisture, your skin will appear dull, dry, and possibly itchy. When the dermis and the lower levels of the epidermis are dehydrated, the skin becomes thinner, and you may notice an uneven complexion and an increase in fine lines and wrinkles.

In addition to ensuring you are drinking plenty of water throughout the day, you can also try applying a moisturizing skin serum to help lock in moisture.

Reduce dead skin cells

Skin cells have a short lifespan. As new skin cells are created, dead skin cells are shed. However, they don’t necessarily go away entirely. It’s possible for them to build up near the skin’s surface, causing a dull, dry, and flaky appearance.

One effective way to reduce dead skin cell accumulation is to exfoliate your skin regularly—using cleansers and masks. However, be careful not to exfoliate too often, especially during winter or if you have sensitive skin. Start by exfoliating once per week. If your skin tolerates it well, consider twice per week.

Alleviate dryness

Dry skin tends to look dull. With different skin types, some people have skin that naturally experiences dryness more than oiliness—especially during the winter. People who live in climates with low humidity can be particularly prone to dry skin, too.

The key to combating this is using liberal amounts of an appropriate moisturizer. To support healthy, hydrated skin even more, use a gentle cleanser that will not strip away natural oils from your skin.

Cut out tobacco use

Tobacco is undeniably harmful to overall wellness. Smoking cigarettes introduces about 4,000 chemicals to the body, including free radicals that damage the skin. Of these chemicals, some damage the elastin and collagen in the skin, too—resulting in sagging skin that looks older and less vibrant.

Also, nicotine causes the blood vessels to narrow. Not only does this increase blood pressure, but it also results in decreased blood flow to the skin cells. This contributes to a dull appearance. The problem is worsened by the interference of these chemicals with the production of red blood cells, which ordinarily help give the skin a healthy, rosy glow.

The solution—quit smoking—is simple but never easy. Consider talking to your doctor if you would like help quitting.

Use skincare products to recharge and rejuvenate

Nourish your skin and recharge your soul with skin-loving care products from KNESKO. A brightening face mask or heart-shaped gua sha is just the thing you need to shake off winter doldrums and face the spring with confidence and positive energy. Brighten your skin with scientifically-formulated ingredients and replenish your soul with one of our gemstone rollers.