Dull skin - The 4th Sign of aging

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What is dull skin?

This is the 4^th sign of aging skin. It is associated with pale looking complexion devoid of colour and brightness. The skin generally appears drab, waxy, scaly and generally looks unhealthy. It is lacking in the moist vibrant look of youthful healthy skin.

What causes it?

The cause of dull skin is very much similar to the root cause of other signs of aging. It may be linked to one factor or a combination of several factors working together. Here are some of them:

1) Poor diet and unhealthy lifestyles

Bad habits on their own may seem unimportant but if magnified over several  years then it becomes a significant sometimes irreversible problem. Excessive drinking, smoking and poor diet can all lead to a dull haggard look. Lack of rest, over work and dehydration also impact negatively on the skins over all good health. 

2)sun damage and over exposure

In our environment the sun is a major factor in causing skin to look dull. Intense sunlight can cause a lot of damage, wear and tear over time. It is necessary to avoid harsh sunlight whenever possible or alternatively to wear sunscreen of SPF30 and above. This is especially important if you are using products that are sensitive to UV light such as skin lightening lotions or creams containing kojic acid or hydroquinone.

3) Using products of poor quality or with little or no skincare benefit

Many products in our local market actually have little or no benefit to the skin. Some are poorly formulated with substandard ingredients or with ingredients that are harsh or harmful to the skin. Ignorance of beneficial ingredients and also improper application of products plays a role in poor skin health. Many people don’t know how to select good skin care products even when given several options.

4) Natural aging process differs from one individual to another

In absolute terms aging cannot be avoided. However it is possible to control or slowdown the process significantly. We can achieve this by being conscious of the need to give our skin the attention it deserves. In fact, recent advancements in skin care science and medical research will allow most people an opportunity to look far younger for much longer than was possible in the past. We only need to take advantage of these opportunities. This become more important as we grow older.

What can we do?

1) Know the beneficial ingredients that can help you maintain bright skin

   These ingredients include:

Antioxidants like vitamins A (retinol), C (ascorbic acid), E (tocopheryl acetate) B3 (niacinamide) and  green tea extracts

Exfoliates like salicyclic acid, moisturizers such as capric tryglyceride and squalane

Skin identical and communicating ingredients such as glycerine and sucrose

Anti-irritants such as allantoin 

2) Choose your skincare products carefully

     Selecting good products is time well spent if it impacts positively on your skin health (which is also a function of your over all good health). Skincare for children should also be given careful consideration as their needs may be different from those of adults.

3)keep your skin moisturized and protected

There are some measures which are basic. Keep your skin moisturized at all times. This is your first line of defense against dull skin and aging . Avoid dryness as much as possible.

4) exfoliate regularly

Exfoliation allows you to get rid of old dead skin cells which are contributing to the dead dull look. By removing these through gentle exfoliates you allow the fresh healthy cells to appear at the surface enhancing the bright glow of your skin.

5) Embrace healthy living and good habits

Bathing regularly and using clean towels and handkerchiefs are also important in skin health.  Maintain healthy habits. Get enough sleep and rest. Drink plenty of fluids daily and avoid excessive alcohol or smoking. Keep your skin fresh and clean to enable it provide you many more years of bright and youthful service.