Goodbye ashy complexion! Here’s how to restore your skin’s radiance after a long winter
By Lamelle Research Laboratories
When we think of winter skincare, dryness and dehydration are usually top of mind. But another common concern that affects most of us at some point, is dullness.
Have you ever looked in the mirror and thought your complexion was ashen or grey? Does your skin look tired? If so, you’re probably experiencing dullness or a lack of radiance.
After several months of battling low temperatures, low humidity, cold winds and rain, your skin may be in need of a radiance boost as we head into spring. Here’s what you need to know:
What is dull skin?
When skin is dull, it looks lacklustre or tired. It may have a grey hue and appear bumpy or have a rough texture. It may also be dry or patchy and uneven in tone.
Why does skin become dull?
There are many causes of dull skin, including internal factors like a lack of sleep, diet, stress and unhealthy habits such as smoking. But external factors like UV rays and pollution also play a role. One of the main causes of dull skin is a build-up of dead skin cells on the surface of the skin.
Our skin cells are constantly renewing: Old, redundant skin cells are replaced by new skin cells as often as every 27 days (or more frequently in teenagers, children and babies). As we age, this process slows down. More often than not, these dead cells accumulate on the outermost layer of the skin (known as the epidermis). This may lead to clogged pores, an uneven texture and – you guessed it – dullness. Most of the time our skin needs a little help to remove these cells from the epidermis, which is where skincare products come in.
How can I brighten dull skin?
Regular exfoliation is key to removing dead skin cells from the epidermis. When gently removing these cells, the skin appears brighter, smoother and more even. Plus, exfoliation also helps prevent the formation of breakouts and blackheads (when cells accumulate on the epidermis they can clog pores, leading to the formation of blackheads and pimples).
But there’s more: When we don’t have a build-up of dead cells on the surface of our skin, our skincare products penetrate the skin better, meaning we can reap the full benefits of active and moisturising ingredients.
In addition to exfoliating, it’s also important to include some glow-enhancing products in your daily skincare routine. One of the most important ingredients to help combat dullness is vitamin C. Known for its brightening benefits, vitamin C helps to boost the skin’s regeneration process, protects against environmental stressors and helps minimise dark marks and uneven skin tone.
Skincare products for dull skin
First and foremost, it’s essential to introduce a good quality exfoliator to your regime. Physical scrubs containing microbeads are best avoided as these particles may cause micro-tears in the skin. Opt for an enzymatic exfoliator such as Lamelle’s Cathepzyme 1 (designed for sensitive skin or first time users) or Cathepzyme 2 (designed for a more intensive exfoliation), instead. Cathepzyme 1 and 2 helps improve radiance and skin cell turnover without irritating the skin.
A good quality vitamin C serum (applied either in the morning, or twice daily), is a must-have for a brighter, more radiant complexion. Try Lamelle Correctives Vita C Lipid Serum, which contains lipid-soluble vitamin C as well as jojoba and ginger root. It offers powerful antioxidant protection, smoother skin, reduced signs of ageing and an enhanced glow. Plus, what sets this one-of-a-kind serum apart is that it is tolerable, even by first-time vitamin C users or those with sensitive skin.
Dull skin and dry skin often go hand-in-hand. Using a hydrating serum that contains hyaluronic acid and a nourishing moisturiser containing ceramides will go a long way in combating dryness. Lamelle Correctives HA+ Serum can be used by all skin types for maximum skin hydration benefits. It contains two hyaluronidase inhibitors along with five types of hyaluronic acid to increase the skin’s water-binding ability, offering advanced hydration and plumping.
After applying your serum(s), follow with a nourishing moisturiser. Lamelle Serra Restore Cream is a light, non-oily moisturiser that combines Lamelle’s patented Ceramide technology with skin-soothing oat beta glucan and skin-healing dexpanthenol, as well as a complex blend of essential fatty acids to assist the body’s natural repair of the skin barrier. It’s a lifesaver for dry skin and a must-have for winter.
The bottom line
It’s normal for skin to get a little dull – especially as winter comes to an end – but that doesn’t mean you have to live with it. With the right skincare products in your arsenal, a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle choices, it’s possible to increase your skin’s luminosity and achieve that desirable glow.
Visit www.lamelle.co.za for more information.
