To know if you can get glowing skin in a week, Health Shots connected with Dr Jaishree Sharad, a popular cosmetic dermatologist, author, TEDx speaker and founder of Skinfiniti Aesthetic Skin and Laser Clinic in Mumbai.

Causes of dull skin

Dull skin with no glow can be due to many reasons.

1. Dead skin cells

When dead skin cells get accumulated on the skin’s surface, it can make it appear dull, rough, and dry, says Dr Sharad.

2. Dehydration

Dehydration should be avoided at all costs, which is why everyone stresses on frequently drinking water. Your skin can also become dehydrated, which can make it look dull and lifeless.

3. Lack of sleep

If you don’t get good quality sleep every day, sooner or later it will show on your face. It can lead to dark circles and tired-looking skin.

4. Stress

Stress can cause hormonal changes in your body, and that can lead to skin problems, including dullness.

5. Poor nutrition

Eating too much processed foods and following a diet low in nutrients can contribute to dull skin, says the expert.

6. Environmental factors

Exposure to pollution, sun damage, and harsh weather conditions can also contribute to dull skin.

7. Age

As we grow older, our skin’s natural exfoliation process slows down, leading to a build-up of dead skin cells and a dull appearance, says Dr Sharad.

How to get glowing skin in a week?

The expert says that getting the skin of your dreams isn’t an overnight process. But there are a few things that can be a good start and you will see the changes soon.

1. Start with the basics of good skincare routine

Go for a cleanser, moisturiser and sunscreen. Tea tree, salicylic glycolic and lactic acid-based cleanser should be used for oily skin. Glycerine ceramide and oil-based cleaners or cleansing creams can work well for women with dry skin. Micellar water is good for sensitive skin. Moisturise your skin well, even during summer, says the expert. Use a sunscreen with SPF of minimum 30 and apply it not less than 20 minutes before you step out in the sun.

2. Watch your diet

Try not to eat salt at night to reduce puffiness and bloating. Eat a healthy, low salt, low calorie, and protein-rich diet.

3. In-clinic treatments

You can check with a dermatologist who can suggest you in-clinic treatments that suit your skin type and concerns. Go for mild alpha hydroxy peels once a fortnight for glowing skin, suggests the expert. You can also go for one or two sessions of skin polishing and oxygen jet peel to clear the dead skin, dirt, grime and tan from your face. Think of skin booster injections if you really have little time and dull dehydrated skin to deal with.

Natural ways to get glowing skin

You can try simple homemade masks to have glowing skin.

1. Pomegranate mask

After you prepare a fresh pomegranate juice, don’t throw the pulp away. Instead, add honey and yogurt to it and make a paste. Use this as a face pack after cleansing your skin. Leave it on for 20 minutes and then rinse. Dr Sharad says pomegranate is loaded with antioxidants like flavonoids and phenolics. It also has high levels of vitamins A, E and C, so it delays premature aging and lightens the skin tone.

2. Papaya mask

Take a small piece of ripe papaya and quarter of a cucumber. Make a puree of both. Add a tablespoon of yogurt to it and refrigerate this mixture for an hour. Finally, add a teaspoon of honey and then apply it on your face and neck. Leave it on for 15 minutes and then wash it off after which your skin will look bright and fresh. Papain, which is the main enzyme in papaya, dissolves the dead skin cells and works as an antibacterial to fight infection. It helps to brighten the skin and makes it more even.