27-02-2025
4 easy tips to brighten dull skin, according to dermatologists
If you're over a certain age, you've probably started to see some not-necessarily-desirable changes in your skin. Into our 30s — and for sure by age 50 — collagen production begins to slows down, which impacts the texture, bounciness and overall tone of our faces. While the majority of serious aging-skin issues are most effectively and efficiently addressed in a dermatologist's or plastic surgeon's office, experts say there are certain clinically-proven at-home ingredients that can help brighten a dull complexion, even skin tone and make you look more glowing overall,
"The best products to brighten your skin at home are a combination of antioxidants and exfoliants to improve skin tone and enhance radiance," explains Dr. Mina Amin, a Los Angeles–based dermatologist at California Dermatology Specialists. "[For brighter skin], the key ingredients to look for are vitamin C, which boosts collagen and reduces dark spots; niacinamide, to reduce inflammation and texture; AHAs [Alpha Hydroxy Acids] to remove dead cells for brighter skin; salicylic acid to help with the appearance of pores; retinoids to fade hyperpigmentation and, finally, SPF to reduce UV damage to keep the skin looking youthful."
For those experiencing dark spots or discoloration, veteran esthetician — and founder and CEO of her eponymous skin care line — Emme Diane Berg says "The key is targeting hyperpigmentation at its source — the enzyme responsible for melanin production, tyrosinase. New hyperpigmentation can't form without tyrosinase activation, and existing dark spots begin to fade, which is why tyrosinase inhibitors are some of the most effective brightening ingredients."
Berg says her favorite tyrosinase inhibitors include vitamin C, retinoids and hydroquinone, though she warns, with hydroquinone particularly, "It's FDA-approved but it's super important to use it correctly. You might see high-dose hydroquinone formulas online, sometimes as high as 12%, but stronger isn't always better. Higher concentrations can lead to excessive irritation, dryness and, in some cases, ochronosis — a bluish-gray skin discoloration that can be very difficult to reverse even be permanent."
For this reason, Berg's hydroquinone products are made with a 2-4% formulation, "My Enlightened Serum is strong enough to deliver results without unnecessary risk. I also advise clients to use hydroquinone in cycles (three months on, three months off) to give the skin a break and always under the guidance of a skin care professional."
If you've tried these recommendations with consistency over a few months and don't see clearer, brighter skin, both Berg and Amin recommend heading to a trusted skin care provider for more intensive treatments like chemical peels or laser therapy, both of which can reduce age spots and boost the vibrancy of tired skin.
Use the right ingredients at the right time: "Vitamin C in the morning helps protect against free radicals and environmental damage, while retinol at night speeds up cell turnover to fade pigmentation and refine texture. Using them together in a balanced routine can make a huge difference over time," says Berg.
Incorporate gentle, physical exfoliation: Regular exfoliation is key for removing dead skin buildup that can leave your complexion looking dull and uneven. Using a simple liquid exfoliant a few times a week — we like this one from Paula's Choice — should do the trick.
Wear SPF daily (no exceptions!): Berg explains, "This is non-negotiable if you want to keep your skin bright and even. Sun exposure is the No. 1 cause of hyperpigmentation, so even the best brightening routine won't be effective without daily sunscreen."
Try at-home red light therapy: This science-backed treatment can help fade hyperpigmentation, reduce inflammation and boost collagen production by stimulating cellular energy and circulation.
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The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.
