How to get rid of dull skin

Is your skin dry, or does it need exfoliation?

Dead skin cells can make your complexion look dull or uneven, which is an unhelpful retirement plan for cells your skin has finished using. Natural shedding slows with age. But flaky, itchy or rough skin also points to dryness, and exfoliating those flakes too aggressively can leave skin drier.123

Start with these steps

1. 1Wash gently. Choose a gentle, fragrance free cleanser and use lukewarm water. Avoid harsh soaps and vigorous scrubbing, which can strip protective oils.
2. 2Apply moisturizer while skin is still damp. After a shower, gently pat dry and moisturize within three minutes to trap moisture. Reapply whenever skin feels dry.
3. 3Choose a cream or ointment if skin is very dry. These add more moisture than lotions. Look for moisturizing ingredients such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid or petrolatum.
4. 4Protect exposed skin. Use a broad spectrum, water resistant sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, seek shade and wear clothing that protects against the sun. Avoid tanning.

Moisturizer helps keep skin hydrated, a less dramatic job than the word "glow" suggests. Choose products labeled "fragrance free": "unscented" products can contain ingredients that hide odors and irritate dry, sensitive skin.34

How should you exfoliate?

Chemical exfoliants use acids to dissolve dead surface cells; scrubs, brushes and sponges remove them physically. Dry, sensitive or acne prone skin can find mechanical exfoliation too irritating, so a mild chemical exfoliant is an option. Avoid strong acids or abrasive methods if you have a darker skin tone or develop dark spots after skin injuries.3

Apply gently and moisturize afterward. For a scrub or rinse off exfoliant, use small circular motions for about 30 seconds, then rinse with lukewarm water. Frequency depends on your skin and the method; stronger exfoliation needs less frequent use. For winter dryness, limit exfoliation to once or twice weekly at most, rather than treating daily use as a target.23

Does dullness get worse in winter?

Cold air and indoor heating reduce humidity, making skin lose moisture. Keep showers to five to ten minutes with lukewarm water. A bedroom humidifier can help; aim for indoor humidity between 30% and 50%, and clean the humidifier regularly.24

When should you stop or get help?

Stop exfoliating if skin becomes red or irritated, and never exfoliate sunburn, open cuts or wounds. Retinol, prescription retinoids and benzoyl peroxide can increase sensitivity or peeling, so adding exfoliation can worsen dryness. See a dermatologist if dryness persists despite moisturizing, or if products cause burning, stinging or irritation.34