5 culprits causing you dull skin.

Glowing skin is never not in. But if you’ve noticed that your skin is looking dull, read on to find out the reasons why – and what you can do.

From subtle highlights to full-on strobing, using makeup to get a glowing look has been #goals for a lot of us. But when all the makeup comes off, does your skin radiate a natural and healthy glow? If you’ve been trying to cover up dullness, read on to find out the possible causes and how you can get your glow back.

1. Dead skin cells

A buildup of dead skin cells is a little bit like dust. Until you wipe it clean, it’s a dingy layer that prevents your skin from reflecting light. We shed millions of skin cells a day, so unless you do something to remove those that don’t fall off naturally, you’ll be facing dull-looking skin, especially as you get older and your skin cell turnover rate slows down.

Solution: Gently exfoliate once or twice a week to remove dead skin cells.

2. Construction is everywhere

Even though Singapore has low level of PM 2.5 pollution, we are surrounded by construction at almost every turn. The air contains a host of tiny particles (dirt) that can cause free radical damage to your skin such as damaging collagen production and stimulating the production of pigmentation. In turn, an uneven skin tone and texture will cause skin to appear dull.

Solution: As pollution can disrupt the skin barrier and cause pollution, it is essential to cleanse your face thoroughly every night.

3. You’re stressed out

Work deadlines, arguments or a poor night’s sleep can put you on edge, but whatever the cause of your stress, the result is the same. Cortisol (a hormone that helps the body respond to stress) levels go up, your fight-or-flight response kicks in, and blood flows to your vital organs and not your face, leading to sallow-looking skin.

Solution: Sometimes to “relax” or “get more rest” is easier said than done. If you can’t find the time, try doing a quick facial massage while applying your moisturiser. This helps to stimulate blood flow, which will add radiance and plump the skin.

4. You are what you eat

Drinking alcohol and caffeine may sound perfect, especially if you’re under stress. However, these beverages dehydrate the skin, while sugary food breaks down collagen and elastin over time, dulling your complexion.

Solution: If you’re addicted to coffee, desserts and bubble tea, make sure you drink lots of water and eat more water-rich, colourful fruits and vegetables which are packed with nutrients that help to balance your body’s pH levels and can make your skin look more glowy.

5. Your skin is dehydrated on a cellular level

Your skin looks dull as a direct result of a lack of moisture, and the root of the problem may be deeper than you realise. Loss of hydration within the skin can happen over time and due to various forms of damage such as UV rays, air pollution and stress, showing up in the form of dullness, dryness and a lack of firmness. Imagine a deflated balloon compared to an inflated one that is filled with water.

Solution: Skincare that provides cellular hydration, reaching cells in the innermost layers of the skin to activate the circulation of moisture throughout the skin can help to revitalise it, bringing back the skin’s radiance and plumpness.