After the Lunar New Year holiday, marked by disrupted routines, rich food, late nights, and frequent sun exposure during spring outings, many people notice their skin appears duller, less vibrant, prone to breakouts, or flaky. According to Master of Science, Doctor, Level I Specialist Tran Nguyen Anh Thu, from the Dermatology and Aesthetics Department at Tam Anh General Hospital Ho Chi Minh City, this is a common condition that can improve with proper care.

Restoring the skin's protective barrier

During the post-Tet period, the primary goal is not skin brightening or intensive treatment, but rather restoring the skin's protective barrier. Late nights, irregular eating habits, and prior sun exposure can lead to increased sebum production, clogged pores, inflammatory acne, and hyperpigmentation. For those with sensitive skin or undergoing dermatological treatments, these changes are even more pronounced.

Focus should be on restorative care through a simple routine: gentle cleansing, avoiding harsh cleansers, and enhancing skin hydration and elasticity with appropriate products. Once the skin barrier stabilizes, the skin's radiance will naturally improve.

Sun protection to prevent hyperpigmentation

Sun exposure is a significant obstacle to skin recovery after Tet. Doctor Thu explains that caring for skin only at night without adequate daytime sun protection allows melanin production to continue, leading to darker skin and slower improvement.

Daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreen, combined with thorough physical protection when outdoors, helps limit hyperpigmentation and supports more effective skin recovery. For sensitive or newly treated skin, prioritize physical sunscreens, which form a protective film on the skin's surface, or products with gentle formulas as advised by a doctor.

Doctor Thu examines a patient's skin condition. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Hydrating and providing antioxidant support from within

For complete skin recovery, nourishment from within is also essential. Drinking two liters of water daily helps maintain hydration, improving dull skin caused by dehydration. A diet rich in green vegetables and fresh fruits provides vitamins C, E, and antioxidants, protecting skin cells from environmental damage.

Doctor Thu also recommends limiting alcohol, sweets, and greasy foods during this period. These factors can increase inflammatory responses, slowing skin recovery and making it less stable.

Avoid aggressive treatments before skin recovery

Many tend to use strong brightening products or apply exfoliation methods immediately after Tet to "rescue" dull skin. However, according to Doctor Thu, this is a misconception. When the skin has not yet recovered, overly aggressive interventions can easily cause irritation, leading to more severe hyperpigmentation or increasing the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Only when the skin foundation is stable will skin pigmentation gradually improve naturally and sustainably. At that point, if necessary, consider specialized treatments such as mild chemical peels, low-energy laser therapy, or other skin rejuvenation procedures tailored to specific skin conditions.

If, after two to four weeks of restorative care, the skin remains persistently dull, develops significant inflammatory acne, or shows signs of irritation, it is advisable to consult a doctor at a hospital with a Dermatology and Aesthetics Department. A correct assessment of the skin condition helps establish a recovery plan, preventing prolonged damage that could affect aesthetics and long-term skin quality.

Minh Huong