Which cleanser should be used against dull complexion?

The term dull complexion refers to skin that lacks radiance and appears tired or gray. This phenomenon is primarily related to a slowdown in cell renewal. On average, this natural process, which eliminates dead cells from the skin's surface, takes place over 28 days. However, due to factors such as age, stress, poor diet, or external aggressions like pollution or smoking, this cycle can lengthen. As a result, dead cells accumulate, forming a veil on the skin's surface, which no longer reflects light properly. A dull complexion is often accompanied by an uneven or rough skin texture, particularly in areas where the skin is thicker, such as the forehead or chin.

Dull skin suffers from an imbalance in its regeneration rhythm, which affects its ability to reflect light.

To restore radiance to one's face, it is beneficial to choose active exfoliants and antioxidants. This begins with skin cleansing, the first step of the evening routine or the second if you wear makeup. Depending on its formulation, in addition to removing impurities accumulated throughout the day, a facial cleanser can promote cellular renewal. For this, it should contain exfoliants, such as fruit acids (AHA) for example. By breaking the bonds between the corneocytes, the cells of the horny layer, these molecules allow their release and elimination, thus revealing a brighter complexion.

Another good strategy to combat dull complexion is the use of antioxidants. Oxidative stress, which is linked to an increased presence of free radicals in cells, can indeed contribute to skin dullness. Free radicals, naturally produced during cellular respiration or in response to external stimuli, such as exposure to UV rays, pollution, or even blue light, can damage the DNA and mitochondrial activity of keratinocytes, thus disrupting their ability to proliferate and potentially causing a slowdown in cellular renewal, leading to an accumulation of dead cells on the skin's surface. Therefore, cleansers incorporating active ingredients such as vitamin C or ferulic acid could help combat a dull complexion.

Note : Since cleansers are rinse-off products, it's possible but not certain that the antioxidants they contain can act against free radicals. For better protection against oxidative stress, it's advisable to opt for leave-on products, such as serums or creams, for example.