Dull Skin

Dull skin without radiance can look tired and older than it is. The culprit is often dead skin cells. They cling to the skin and block the healthy skin cells, both literally and figuratively. The skin loses its natural glow, and if these cells aren't removed they can cause impurities and inflammation. But that isn't always the cause of dull skin. Stress, an unhealthy lifestyle and air pollution can leave your skin looking dull too. Drink enough water, make sure you get plenty of rest and consider giving up smoking and sunbeds. It's also important to protect your skin from harmful external influences.

Which ingredients help against dull skin?

• Salicylic acid - Cleanses pores thoroughly and exfoliates the skin to reduce clogged pores and impurities.
• Mandelic acid - An AHA with BHA-like properties. Cleanses clogged pores and removes dead skin cells from the surface.
• White tea - Rich in antioxidants, hydrates and boosts circulation.
• Ginseng - Protects against free radicals, repairs and energises.

Which skincare routine reduces dull skin?

If you have a build-up of dead skin cells, it's important to exfoliate once or twice a week. You can use a physical scrub with fine particles that buff the skin. Massage it gently over the skin so you don't damage the skin underneath. You can also use a chemical exfoliant with salicylic acid, for example. These loosen dead skin cells without harming healthy skin. Make sure you protect your skin from the sun and free radicals every day, using sun protection and a moisturiser rich in antioxidants. Stimulating circulation can help combat dull skin too – a massage roller is ideal for this.

Discover the best products for dull skin here

Read our guide: Pigmentation spots: how they form and how to fade them