At BalmLabs, we have the privilege of having dermatologist, Dr. Robin Schaffran at our disposal (and we take full advantage of it). Here, she answered our questions about dull skin and how to brighten it back up.
Q: Lately, my skin just looks and feels sorta blah. Is this what skincare experts mean by dull skin? What should I do about it?
Dr. Schaffran: Dullness is sometimes more easily defined by what it’s not. It’s skin that appears less radiant, or like it’s missing a kind of natural glow. Dull skin is essentially caused by dead skin cells building up on the skin’s surface.
Sun damage contributes quite a bit to dullness. Damaged skin doesn’t naturally turn over as quickly as non-damaged skin, which results in a more uneven in texture and tone. Hyperpigmentation caused by chronic sun damage also contributes to a more lacklustre appearance. (Sunscreen and shade are the obvious preventative measures here).
Hormones — a perimenopausal woman’s best friend — play a role as well. As estrogen levels start to decline (typically after age 35), the relative amount of male hormones rise, which causes oil production to increase. This can change the overall appearance of the skin and pores, which tend to look larger.
Stress, and the disruption to sleep that often comes with it, can also accelerate dullness. When cortisone levels increase, there is less blood flow to the face which leaves the skin looking more sallow. Facial massages can help counteract this.
“Dullness describes skin that appears less radiant, or like it’s missing a kind of natural glow.”
And remember, hydrated skin is happy skin. Skin needs moisture to look radiant, reflect light and give off that healthy glow. So if you’re struggling with dryness or dehydrated, dull skin, incorporate a good emollient into your routine. Keep an eye out for products with hyaluronic acid — it’s a total hydration super hero.
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Dermatologist Q+A: What causes "dullness"?
