Chapter 61: Tips to Rejuvenating Dull Skin

Last Updated: 18 February 2021

Estimated Reading Time: 2 minutes

Beauty Book

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Are you experiencing dull, lackluster skin? This issue is especially common during winter, and it can be caused by stress, dehydration or environmental stressors such as air pollution.

To turn your dull complexion healthy and radiant again, all you need are the right skin care products. We put together five tips to help brighten your skin and achieve an enviable glow.

Tip #1: Cleanse skin properly

Cleansing is the most important step of the skin care routine; skipping or rushing this part can lead to a dull complexion. No matter how exhausted you are at the end of the day, it’s vital to wash your face properly, especially if you live in an area with air pollution.

Take the time to properly cleanse your skin. Follow the 60-second rule when using a cleansing oil or cleansing balm to make sure that you get rid of every trace of dirt, sweat, excess oil and makeup from your face.

First cleanse:

I’M FROM / BANILA CO / THE SAEM/ HARUHARU WONDER

Second cleanse:

IUNIK / SOME BY MI / KLAVUU / FRUDIA

Tip #2: Stay on top of your exfoliating routine

Dull skin is often caused by a buildup of dead skin cells. Exfoliating at least once a week can make all the difference. If you don’t regularly exfoliate, it’s not too late to start now!

Go for chemical exfoliants with alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) or polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) to slough away dead skin cells and brighten your skin. To avoid irritating skin, remember not to over exfoliate, especially if you have sensitive skin.

If you’re new to chemical exfoliants, start by introducing one into your routine once a week. Feel free to exfoliate twice or even three times a week, but only if your skin can handle it.

Chemical exfoliators:

BEAUTY OF JOSEON / COSRX / NEOGEN / BENTON

Tip #3: Keep skin hydrated

To achieve a youthful glow, it’s important to keep skin hydrated with products containing moisture-boosting ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramide and squalane.

After cleansing and toning, apply a serum followed by a moisturizer, and ensure that both are packed with hydrating ingredients. Keep a face mist on your desk to quench dehydrated skin and make sure it looks dewy throughout the day.

Hydrating serums:

ISNTREE / MIZON / IUNIK / COSRX

Moisturizers:

I’M FROM / PURITO / BEAUTY OF JOSEON / SOME BY MI

Hydrating face mists:

NEOGEN / D’ALBA / KLAVUU / THANK YOU FARMER

Tip #4: Protect skin from the sun

All your skin care products will be much less effective if you head outdoors without any shield against the sun. Before you step outside, always apply sunscreen. Unprotected sun exposure increases your chances of getting dull skin, not to mention the premature aging that it also causes!

Don’t forget to reapply sunscreen if you spend all day outdoors. A sun stick comes in handy if you need to apply while at the beach.

Sun sticks:

A.H.C / ABIB / MAKE P:REM / SCINIC

Tip #5: De-stress skin with a face mask

Stress not only ages you but also steals your skin’s healthy glow! Stressed-out skin can appear dull and tired. To fix this, prioritize some well-deserved “me time,” even if it’s just for 15 minutes. Grab a brightening face mask to boost skin’s radiance.

While waiting for the mask to do its magic, indulge in a self-care ritual like reading, listening to soothing music and meditating – or just sit back and relax.

Brightening face masks: