6 reasons you have dull skin – and how to fix it

January 27, 2023 Patricia Asmar

Dull skin can be a frustrating and difficult problem to fix. It can be caused by a variety of factors such as a buildup of dead skin cells, pollution and dehydration. But with the right skincare routine, it is possible to revive your dull skin and achieve a radiant, glowing complexion.

What causes dull skin

There isn’t just one singular cause of dull skin, it can be a combination of a multitude of external and internal factors, including:

1. Dead skin cell buildup

As your skin naturally renews itself, it sheds dead cells from the top layer (epidermis). While this process allows for fresh, new skin to appear, it can also result in a buildup of cells leading to dullness, dryness, flakiness, and clogged pores.

Solution: Exfoliation is key to removing these dead cells and revealing new, fresh skin. You can exfoliate gently with a washcloth, use an exfoliating cleanser or scrub, or go deeper with microdermabrasion treatments or a skin cleansing brush. You can also use a chemical exfoliant, such as glycolic acid or salicylic acid, depending on your skin type. Exfoliating your skin two to three times a week is ideal, but if you have sensitive skin, start with once a week and see how your skin tolerates it.

Eminence Organics Strawberry Rhubarb Dermafoliant - 6 reasons you have dull skin and how to fix it eminence organics the facial room

Try: Eminence Organics Strawberry Rhubarb Dermafoliant & Eminence Organics Turmeric Energizing Treatment

2. Pollution

Exposure to pollutants such as urban dust and cigarette smoke can cause dull skin and skin damage through the production of free radicals, leading to premature aging or the development of skin conditions like atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and acne.

Solution: Protect your skin from pollution by using skincare products that are formulated with antioxidants, such as vitamin C, which can help protect the skin from free radical damage.

Eminence Organics Rosehip Triple C+E Firming Oil 6 reasons you have dull skin and how to fix it eminence organics the facial room

Try: Eminence Organics Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Serum, Eminence Organics Rosehip Triple C+E Firming Oil & Eminence Organics Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Masque

3. Dehydration

Dehydration is another common cause of dull skin. When the skin is dehydrated, it can appear dull and lacklustre.

Solution: To revive dehydrated skin, it is important to drink plenty of water and use skincare products that are formulated with hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid. Additionally, try to avoid alcohol, which can dehydrate the skin.

Eminence Organics Strawberry Rhubarb Hyaluronic Hydrator - 6 reasons you have dull skin and how to fix it eminence organics the facial room

Try: Eminence Organics Strawberry Rhubarb Hyaluronic Hydrator & Eminence Organics Strawberry Rhubarb Masque

4. The food you eat

You are what you eat – it’s true! What you put into your body will show up on your skin, and a balanced diet is crucial to maintaining healthy, radiant skin.

Solution: Eating foods that are high in fatty acids, such as fish, walnuts and flaxseed, can help boost cell production below the skin's surface, reinforcing the skin barrier and reducing inflammation. Additionally, incorporating foods that are rich in antioxidants, such as nuts, seeds, tomatoes and dark chocolate can help to fight skin inflammation and free radical damage.

5. UV rays

Sun damage can also cause dull skin. The sun can deplete the skin of its essential fatty acids and hyaluronic acid, leading to dullness as well as pigmentation.

Solution: To protect your skin from sun damage, use an SPF of at least 30 every day and an SPF of 50 for activities such as hiking, swimming, walking or jogging.

COOLA Mineral Cucumber Matte SPF 30 Face Reef-Safe Sunscreen 6 reasons you have dull skin and how to fix it the facial room

Try: COOLA Mineral Cucumber Matte SPF 30 Face & Eminence Organics Tropical Vanilla Day Cream SPF 40

6. Sleep

Lastly, it is important to get adequate sleep. When you don't get enough sleep, your skin can appear dull and tired.

Solution: Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night to help your skin look its best.

Pro tip: Apply an ultra-hydrating overnight treatment, like Eminence Organics Monoi Age Corrective Night Cream for Face & Neck, before bed to infuse your skin with nutrients and moisture!

The best skincare routine to revive dull skin

The best skincare routine to revive dull skin - 6 reasons you have dull skin and how to fix it eminence organics the facial room

The new year is a great time to refresh your routine – New Year, New Routine! Try our Routine Builder – build a 5-step Eminence Organics skincare routine and save 20%!

Here’s a complete skincare routine to revive your dull skin:

Cleanse: Eminence Organics Mangosteen Daily Resurfacing Cleanser

Exfoliate: Eminence Organics Turmeric Energizing Treatment

Tone: Eminence Organics Mangosteen Revitalizing Mist

Treat: Eminence Organics Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Serum

Moisturize: Eminence Organics Mangosteen Gel Moisturizer

Protect: Eminence Organics Camellia Glow Solid Face Oil

SPF: Eminence Organics Tropical Vanilla Day Cream SPF 40

Dull skin can be caused by a variety of factors such as a buildup of dead skin cells, pollution, and dehydration. To revive dull skin, it is important to incorporate exfoliation, hydration, a balanced diet, sun protection and adequate sleep into your skincare routine. Using skincare products that are formulated with antioxidants, such as vitamin C, can help to brighten and revive the skin. With the right skincare routine, you can achieve a radiant, glowing complexion.