Ask the Expert: 6 Daily Habits to Revive Tired Skin

Reviving tired skin comes down to simple, daily habits that nourish, hydrate, and protect your complexion from the inside out. You might think that radiant skin can only be achieved through a tedious, 10-step skincare routine, but the truth is, all you really need is intention and consistent care.

To learn more about tired skin, All Things Beauty turned to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Bea Chan-Benavidez. Read up on her tips and reminders, so your skin can look bright and healthy again – no filters needed.

If your skin has been looking extra tired lately, your everyday choices might be playing a role. Poor lifestyle habits like smoking, for example, can take a toll on your complexion. A study in the Journal of Dermatological Science found that smoking tobacco can impair collagen production, the protein that keeps skin plump and elastic.

Per Dr. Chan-Benavidez, chronic stress can also be a major culprit behind dull skin. When you’re feeling extra on edge, your body releases the hormone cortisol to prep your body for any perceived threat. However, too much of this can damage your skin barrier and accelerate the loss of elastin in your body, leading to wrinkles.

Sometimes you might be forgetting to take care of your skin, such as when you neglect exfoliating or stay out under the sun for too long. Your skin naturally sheds dead skin, and sometimes it needs help to eliminate them. Forgetting to exfoliate can lead to buildup, causing flaky or patchy skin. In terms of sun exposure, it’s the cardinal rule in skincare – protect your skin to prevent premature aging.

When your skin’s looking dull, sometimes all it needs is some TLC. Hydrating, exfoliating, and eating better can make a difference. Self-care isn’t just for your mental well-being; it goes a long way in nourishing your physical appearance, especially when practiced consistently. Here are easy tired skin remedies you can do every day to restore your radiance.

To get your healthy glow back, Dr. Chan-Benavidez advises moisturizing every day. “Preferably use one in a cream format because it is more nourishing,” she says. Make sure to check the label for humectants like glycerin and hyaluronic acid, as well as emollients like ceramides for a boost of hydration. She expounds, “They’ll strengthen the skin barrier, keeping the moisture in.”

Consider incorporating the Dove Cloud Self-Foaming Body Wash Ultra Moisture with Triple Ceramides into your shower routine. It’s a gentle cleanser that nourishes your skin, giving it a supple touch. Another option you can try is Dove Sakura Blossom Body Wash. Made with sakura blossom and Himalayan sea salt, this gentle wash leaves your skin soft and hydrated for 24 hours.

According to Dr. Chan-Benavidez, the main culprit for tired skin is a lack of hydration or moisture. Hydrate from the inside, too. Not drinking your eight glasses of water a day can lead to “uneven skin texture, dark under eyes, and make your fine lines and wrinkles more prominent.” Lastly, stay away from food and drinks that promote dehydration, such as alcohol, coffee, and instant noodles.

Rejuvenate tired, stressed-out skin by getting good quality sleep. When you’re asleep, your body repairs itself by boosting collagen production and improving blood flow. According to the National Institutes of Health, adults require seven to nine hours of sleep a night to get restorative rest.

Be more conscious of what you’re eating by incorporating fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats into your daily meals. You’ll want to look for food rich in antioxidants like cranberries, blueberries, pecans, plums, and dark leafy greens. While you’re at it, knock down your consumption of processed food and sugar, as they can result in premature skin aging.

With the right ingredients, a face mask can revive tired skin by softening dark spots and improving your face’s overall clarity. Pick up brightening face masks with antioxidants like vitamin C, licorice root, and turmeric, along with hyaluronic acid and shea butter.

You can use one every day as long as it doesn’t include strong actives, like AHAs, BHAs, or retinol. There might also be usage instructions in the packaging that indicate if it’s suitable for everyday use. Take it easy, though, especially if you have sensitive or acne-prone skin. Test it out once or twice a week first.

While maintaining daily habits is great, less is better when it comes to exfoliation. Remedy dead skin cell buildup by exfoliating at least twice a week – or adjust based on your skin type. Regular exfoliation can boost skin cell turnover and stimulate collagen production, too. Should you have dry or sensitive skin, limit exfoliating once a week so your condition doesn’t worsen.

That said, Dr. Chan-Benavidez cautions against over exfoliation. She explains, “overusing exfoliating acids or using [products with a] higher concentration of acids can lead to a damaged skin barrier.”

You can absolutely combat tired skin, and the best part is, it’s all doable from the comfort of your home. Just remember to be more intentional with your skincare routine, hydration habits, and food intake. Apply these lifestyle changes religiously, and soon you’ll have rejuvenated skin that radiates 24/7.