Have you ever felt like your skin is just lacking that natural luster? Or maybe you’ve noticed more dry patches and flakiness than usual? Unfortunately, dull, drying skin is a common problem, but luckily, there are a few simple things you can do to get your glow back. From must-have items for your skincare set to easy dietary changes, here are some best ways to treat dull and drying skin.
What Is Dull and Drying Skin?
Dull skin can be hard to define, but most people know it when they see it. Dull skin looks lackluster, tired and sometimes even gray. It lacks the healthy glow from proper skincare and seems to suck the life out of your complexion. There are many different causes of dull skin, but some of the most common include
- Dehydration – When skin lacks water, it can become dry, tight and flaky. This can lead to reduced elasticity, which in turn can make your skin look dull.
- Sun Damage – Exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause damage to the skin’s collagen and elastin. This can lead to firmness loss, making your skin appear dull.
- Poor Diet – A diet lacking nutrients can lead to dull, lackluster skin.
- Stress – Stress can cause several changes in the body that can lead to dull skin, including a decrease in blood flow and an increase in the production of the stress hormone cortisol.
On the other hand, dry skin can manifest in a few different ways. For example, it might look rough and scaly, patchy or tight, itchy or inflamed. In addition, there are a few things that can contribute to dry skin, including:
- Weather – Cold, windy days can strip away moisture from the skin, leaving it dry and irritated.
- Hot showers – While a hot shower might feel good, the heat can strip away the natural oils from your skin, leaving it dry.
- Soaps and Detergents – Many soaps and detergents contain harsh chemicals that can strip away the natural oils from your skin, leaving it dry and irritated.
- Central Heating/Air Conditioning – Indoor heating and air conditioning can suck the moisture out of the air, leaving your skin dry.
- Age – As we age, our skin produces less oil, leading to dryness.
Now that we’ve covered what can cause both dull and dry skin, let’s look at some ways to treat it.
Fix Your Dry and Dull Skin
- Moisturize
One of the best ways to treat dull and dry skin is to moisturize. This will help replenish the skin’s natural oils and keep it hydrated. You’ll want a heavier moisturizer with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and dimethicone to help lock in moisture and protect the skin from further dryness.
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- Exfoliate
Another great way to treat dull and dry skin is to exfoliate. This will help remove dead skin cells that can build up on the skin’s surface and make it appear dull. There are different ways to exfoliate, including physical exfoliants (like scrubs) and chemical exfoliants (like AHAs and BHAs). The right one for you will depend on your skin type and personal preference.
- Use a Humidifier
If the air in your home is dry, it can contribute to dry skin. To help combat this, try using a humidifier. This will add moisture to the air, which can help to keep your skin hydrated. We recommend turning it on an hour before bed to help raise the humidity in your bedroom. You can also grab a small desk humidifier for your office to keep your skin hydrated during the day.
- Drink Plenty of Water
Drinking plenty of water is essential for healthy skin. When you’re properly hydrated, it shows in your complexion. Drinking eight glasses of water a day is a good rule, but you may need more if you live in a hot climate or exercise frequently. The general rule is if you’re thirsty, you should have had that cup of water an hour ago.
- Eat a Healthy Diet
Eating a healthy diet is essential for overall well-being. Still, it can also help to improve the appearance of your skin. Eating plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains will give your skin the nutrients to look its best. Look for foods high in antioxidants, which are important for fighting off free radicals that can damage the skin. Some great examples of nutrient-dense foods packed with antioxidants are:
- Blueberries
- Spinach
- Sweet potatoes
- Tomatoes
- Pecans
- Limit Your Sun Exposure
Exposure to the sun’s UV rays can cause damage to the skin, so it’s important to limit your time in the sun. If you must be in the sun, wear sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. You can also wear loose-fitting clothing made from cotton or linen to help protect your skin. If you enjoy outdoor sports and activities, invest in sun-protective clothing.
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- Get Plenty of Sleep
Getting enough sleep is vital for overall health, but it can also help improve your skin’s appearance. When you’re well-rested, your skin will have a healthy glow. According to the Sleep Foundation, adults between 24 and 64 should shoot for seven to nine hours of sleep each night.
- Reduce Stress
According to research, stress can take a toll on your entire body, including your skin. There are tons of ways to reduce stress, but you have to find the one that works for you. Whether it’s lightening your workload at the office, indulging in your favorite hobby or taking a yoga class, find what works for you and stick with it.
- Invest in a Good Skincare Routine
Investing in a good skincare routine is vital for treating dull and dry skin. Be sure to cleanse, tone and moisturize your skin every day. You may also want to consider using a serum or face oil to help improve the appearance of your skin. Consult with a dermatologist or aesthetician if you’re unsure where to start. They can help you create a custom skincare routine perfect for your skin type and concerns. You can also ask them questions about products like cuticle treatment cream and face wash for dry skin.
Put in the Effort
Dull and dry skin can be challenging to treat, but it’s definitely worth the effort. By following our tips, you can improve the appearance of your skin and feel more confident about yourself. So put in the effort — your skin is worth it!
