Dull and tired skin is never a good look but unfortunately its one most of us have to deal with at some point. External factors such as stress can cause a lacklustre appearance, as can eating the wrong food or not getting enough rest.
Thankfully there are products around that can help. Initially it's a good idea to get into the habit of regular exfoliation - you'll be surprised how much sloughing off dead skin can perk up your face. Kiehl's Clearly Corrective White Skin Brightening Range is a good first stop, as it's a whole line of products designed to boost radiance. The collection includes white birch extract which aids hydration and helps gets rid of discolouration. Peony extract is an antioxidant which protects skin from damage, while ceramides stop skin becoming dehydrated.
There is a cleanser, toner and moisturiser, but it's the exfoliator we would highlight. It's designed to be used twice a day and it gives quick results, with skin looking radiant after just a couple of applications.
Dermalogica's Daily Microfoliant has been lauded by the beauty press as it is gentle but gives exceptional results. Skin which is a little lacklustre often needs a bit of TLC, with some exfoliators too harsh. This one is made from rice and includes papain and salicylic acid, with no artificial fragrances added. If you're worried your skin is dull but also sensitive, give this a go. We have used it twice a week for three weeks and were impressed with how soft and glowing skin looked.
Shu Uemura White Recovery EX massage gel helps protect the skin whilst also rubbing away dead cells and cleansing pores. All this lets your skin shine with radiance, with ingredients including bitter cherry extract, gentiana extract, vitamin C, and polyethylene beads.
Next up we'd suggest investing in a serum which will tackle problems with your skin on a molecular level. Biotherm White D-Tox Liquid Light makes skin brighter with regular use and also tackles dark and age spots. Those who have red, yellow or grey skin should notice a more even colour it also boosts dullness, thanks to the moisturising properties.
If serums aren't you're thing, Elemis Pro-Radiance Illuminating Flash Balm is a moisturiser which promises to leave skin luminous once it's applied. It helps smooth wrinkles and fine lines and also acts like a primer, but isn't too glittery. MAC Strobe Cream is another such product. It's light enough to be worn under foundation and leaves a radiant and dewy finish. It's best for those who have dry skin though, as those who are more oily might find make-up starts to slide off when it's applied.
One of the easiest ways to a radiance quick fix is with a highlighter. You will need to test out a few though, as some are easier to blend than others. For easy radiance we'd suggest Becca's Shimmering Skin Perfector, which comes in several different colours such as pearl and topaz. As well as antioxidants to guard skin against damage there are anti-inflammatory ingredients and it has SPF 25. This can be used on its own, under foundation or on the body and is an instant skin pick-me-up.
Another solid option is the Skinlights range from Revlon. Again these come in several colours, depending if you want a bronzed look or a dewier finish. They are quite glitzy so we'd suggest using on cheekbones and under eyebrows rather than all over the face. Take a less-is-more approach when using these and if your skin has an uneven surface or large pores you might want to use powder to ensure you don't draw attention to it.