The Best Skin Care Routine for Dull, Lackluster Skin

Have drab and dreary skin? Whether a result of too much UV exposure, pollution, smoking, or normal aging, you might feel lost on how to help restore a natural glow to your complexion. Well friends, today’s your lucky day. Below, we’re laying out a five-step skin care routine to help improve the look of dull skin! 

STEP ONE: EXFOLIATE 

Simple fact: Skin that’s covered in a buildup of dead skin cells cannot reflect light the same way clean, clear skin can. The result? You guessed it: Dull and grey-looking skin. The best way to rid your skin of light-diffusing dead skin cells is to exfoliate. After cleansing, apply a gentle exfoliator—like Kiehl’s Pineapple Papaya Facial Scrub—once or twice a week, depending on your tolerance. You’re well on your way to radiant skin!

STEP TWO: BRIGHTEN WITH ANTIOXIDANTS

A pile up of dead surface-skin cells can rob skin of a lit-from-within glow, but that’s not all it’s up against. Environmental aggressors—think: pollution, smog, and smoke—and harmful UV rays are also capable of robbing our skin’s radiance. To help brighten the look of skin, layer on potent antioxidants like vitamin C. Vitamin C is a great to use in the morning paired with broad-spectrum SPF—more on that below—as it helps neutralize free radicals. SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic is a cult-favorite for brightening the appearance of the skin’s complexion. Give it a try and see what the hype’s all about.

STEP THREE: MOISTURIZE WITH SPF 

Going outdoors without a coat of SPF 30 or higher is a major skin care sin. So too is skipping moisturizer daily. Combine both in one easy step by opting for an SPF-packed moisturizer that’ll keep dry, rough skin at bay. Lancôme Bienfait Multi-Vital SPF Lotion boasts SPF 30 as well as an antioxidant complex of vitamins E, B5 and CG for skin that’s hydrated and soft all day.

One thing to note: As skin ages, it becomes more susceptible to losing lipids, the natural compounds found on the skin’s surface. This can lead to a weakened moisture barrier, which may translate into skin dullness and roughness. To help restore a declining barrier, add those cellular lipids—read: ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids—back into your skin. SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2 supports skin’s natural self-repair while providing hydration. There’s no SPF in this cocktail though, so make sure you still apply some sunscreen before leaving the house.

STEP FOUR: BRING ON THE HIGHLIGHT

There’s no shame in faking a glow, so long as you follow a religious skin care routine. Choose a creamy highlighter—we love L’Oreal Paris True Match Lumi Liquid Glow Illuminator—and gently dab it onto the high points of your face, like your brow bones, the center of your chin, and the tip of your nose. Blend it all in, dust L’Oreal Paris True Match Lumi Powder Glow Illuminator on top, and you’re all set!

STEP FIVE: APPLY RETINOL AT NIGHT

Retinoid, a derivative of vitamin A, is an uber-powerful ingredient with multiple benefits, which include helping to minimize the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and pore size. To help smooth and firm skin and add a more even-looking tone, incorporate SkinCeuticals Retinol 0.5—or any over-the-counter or prescription retinol—before bed. Beware though, not all skin types can handle retinol use. Always discuss any new product use with your dermatologist first.