Annoyed by your dull and tired-looking skin? Lacklustre or dull complexion is a prevalent skin issue that many experience. Regardless of the contributing factors, whether it’s ageing, environmental aggressors, or dehydrated skin, picking the right products requires trial and error. However, as you navigate through this process, it may feel like a never-ending quest. Fret not, as we have handpicked a list of skincare products, from brightening serum, facial exfoliator to youth-boosting moisturiser that can address your skin woes. Say hello to a brighter complexion with this roundup of the best skincare products for dull skin. 

What is Dull Skin?

Photo by Alexander Stemplewski on Pexels

As the name suggests, dull skin or lacklustre complexion is commonly referred to as a condition in which the skin has lost its natural glow. This uneven complexion is often attributed to several contributing factors, including pigmentation, brown spots, and discolouration which are caused by sun damage. 

Moreover, the slowed cellular turnover rate, which results in a buildup of dead skin cells, can also trigger acne, an uneven skin tone, milia, and dullness. Primarily, the combination of ageing, dry skin, a poor lifestyle, sun damage, and environmental aggressors are among the known factors that cause dull skin. 

What are the Active Skincare Ingredients That You Need to Look For?

Although people usually rely on exfoliants to achieve brighter-looking skin instantly, they are not the only available option. Instead, there are a slew of skincare products that feature formulation which can revive tired and dull looking skin. If you’re looking for skincare products that can target the signs of dullness, here are a few active ingredients that can combat them:

  • Vitamin C
  • Hyaluronic acid
  • Ferulic acid
  • Retinol or bakuchiol
  • AHAs
  • BHAs
  • PHAs

The Best Skincare Products For Dull Skin 2024

1. Face Republic Vita Capsule Luminous Serum

Topping our list of the best skincare products for dull skin is the Face Republic Vita Capsule Luminous Serum. This renowned brand from Korea contains a powerful combination of niacinamide, lemon fruit extract, and Hippophae Rhamnoides water. Its high-performance formulation works wonders to brighten dull skin, while capsulized jojoba seed oil helps to deeply nourish the skin, revealing a healthy glow. 

Why we love it:

  • Dermatogically tested 
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Free from paraben, sulfate, and silicone 

Price: RM79.90

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2. Somethinc Diamond Phyto Stem Cell Serum

For a real jolt of skin brightening, look no further than the Diamond Phyto Stem Cell Serum by Somethinc. This vegan and fungal acne-friendly serum is produced with real diamond molecules as well as Swiss Alps Stem Cells to promote  skin smoothness and radiance, accelerate skin renewal, and combat signs of premature ageing such as wrinkles and large pores. With zero fragrance or artificial colours, this revolutionary serum is formulated with 4-MSK Diamond Bright Molecule and Guaiazulene, which helps to brighten the skin, smoothen texture, even out skin tone, and soothe any redness. With just 4 weeks* of consistent usage, you’ll have brighter, smoother skin.

Why we love it:

  • Hypoallergenic, dermatologically-tested, KKM and HALAL MUI-certified
  • Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin
  • Suitable for all ages, including pre-teens and teenagers

Price: RM50 (20 ml), RM90 (40ml)

Where to buy: Shopee, Watsons

3. Mad Hippie MicroDermabrasion Facial

Mad Hippie MicroDermabrasion Facial is an all-natural exfoliant that won’t be abrasive to your skin. It boasts a medley of bamboo extract and mineral-rich volcanic ash, which gently slough off dead skin cells on the outermost layer. Plus, its formulation is also augmented with six naturally derived AHAs, in which this fruit acid complex dissolves the bonds that tie dead skin cells together and purifies any underlying congestion. Thanks to the probiotics, it soothes and calms sensitive skin. 

Why we love it: 

  • Chemical and physical exfoliant 
  • Ideal for all skin types
  • Recyclable packaging

Price: RM118.15 (original price RM139.00)

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4. NUViT Dermal White Brightening Spot Eraser

A lightweight and fast-absorbing serum, the NUViT Dermal White Brightening Spot Eraser will brighten your skin like no other. Infused with NUVIT’s proprietary ingredient, Alpaflor Gigawhite, it contains seven types of precious Swiss alpine botanical extracts that are cultivated organically at high altitudes, which produces a triple brightening effect for the ultimate glass skin glow. In addition, it’s also formulated with Luminosa, which is extracted from red marine algae for depigmentation, and Palmaria Palmata to visibly reduce dark spots. To top it off, this serum also contains a golden ratio of quadruple hyaluronic acid to form a Hyaluron barrier, and hydrate the skin from within. Get the clearest and brightest skin of your life with the NUViT Dermal White Brightening Spot Eraser.

Why we love it:

  • Intensely hydrating
  • Effectively lightens dark spots
  • Creates a luminous and ultra-refined complexion

Price: RM 85.50

Where to buy: Watsons, NUViT Partnered Pharmacies

5. Holika Holika Gold Kiwi Vita C + Sleeping Cream 

Wake up to the skin of your dreams with Holika Holika Gold Kiwi Vita C + Sleeping Cream. Touted as the best face cream for dull and tired skin, it delivers a dose of hydration and brightening properties to re-energise dull complexion. It harnesses the power of the Gold Kiwi Vita Full™ complex along with 12 types of vitamins that work together to target the appearance of skin imperfections like pigmentation and signs of ageing. 

Why we love it: 

  • Refreshing citrus scent
  • Luxurious creamy texture
  • Minimises the appearance of imperfections

Price: RM129.90

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6. Melano CC Vitamin C Brightening Enzyme Face Wash

Melano CC Vitamin C Brightening Enzyme Face Wash is a must-have in your skincare regimen. This first tube-type enzyme face wash is designed to deliver deep cleansing without stripping the skin of its natural oils. It is formulated with a cocktail of enzymes to gently remove dead skin cells and kaolin clay, which works magically to absorb excess sebum while removing pore-clogging dirt. With vitamin C as its signature ingredient, it delivers multiple benefits, including retaining the skin’s moisture, brightening a dull complexion, and fading acne marks. 

Why we love it:

  • Free of Irritants
  • Suitable for all skin types
  • Refreshing Yuzu fragrance

Price: RM39.90

Where to buy: Watsons 

7. Drunk Elephant C-Firma Fresh Day Serum

The C-Firma Fresh Day Serum by Drunk Elephant contains a high concentration of 15% vitamin C, fruit enzymes, and an antioxidant complex. This potent serum features a ground-breaking formula that promotes firmness, brighter and even-looking skin. Apart from minimising the appearance of skin imperfections, it also addresses the signs of ageing and photodamage. Simply mix it up and get your glow on!

Why we love it:

  • High concentration of vitamin C
  • Keeps skin hydrated
  • Increases skin luminosity 

Price: RM355.00

Where to buy: Sephora 

8. Kiehl’s Retinol Skin-Renewing Daily Micro-Dose Serum

Kiehl’s Retinol Skin-Renewing Daily Micro-Dose Serum is a perfect option for those who prefer retinol-based skincare products. This bottle houses a daily strength of pure retinol, ceramides, and peptides for youthful skin. The precise formulation of retinol ensures that the signs of ageing are minimised without any redness, dryness, or even skin peeling. With its fast-absorbing formula, it ensures an even skin tone and a smoother texture.

Why we love it:

  • Daily strength of retinol
  • Ideal for all skin types
  • Recyclable packaging

Price: RM258.00

Where to buy: Kiehl’s official website 

9. Fenty Skin Pre-Show Glow Instant Retexturizing 10% AHA Treatment + Reusable Applicator

Our next pick of the best skincare products for dull skin is the highly rated Fenty Skin Pre-Show Glow Instant Retexturizing 10% AHA Treatment + Reusable Applicator. This face treatment is powered by a concoction of 10% AHAs, rooibos, and fruit enzymes and extracts. These key ingredients work together to clarify, brighten, and smooth the skin for a healthier glow. It comes with a reusable applicator that can be used along with the product to amplify the physical exfoliation process. 

Why we love it:

  • Fruity-floral scent
  • Instantly smooth rough skin texture
  • Remove dead skin cells

Price: RM210.00

Where to buy: Sephora 

10. Kora Organics By Miranda Kerr Turmeric Glow Moisturizer

With a 4.5-star rating on Sephora, Kora Organics By Miranda Kerr Turmeric Glow Moisturizer is the secret to transforming dullness into brighter-looking skin. It contains a wonderful mix of turmeric extract, liquorice extract, and marine microalgae, along with an oil blend of desert date, rosehip, and maracuja oil. These all-star ingredients cocoon the skin with their luxurious texture to boost moisture levels and replenish damaged skin. The proprietary liposome technology and fermented probiotics work effectively to minimise the appearance of ageing, strengthen the skin barrier, soothe irritated skin, and brighten dullness. 

Why we love it:

  • Certified organic
  • Comes with refillable packaging
  • Suitable for all skin types

Price: RM248.00

Where to buy: Sephora

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