Why does skin look duller as we age? For one, fluctuating hormone levels during perimenopause promote the buildup of sticky dead cells in your pores. Later, as hormone levels decline, your skin’s natural turnover cycle slows down. Dry skin flakes aren’t sloughed off as readily, which leads to a dull, sometimes ashen appearance. What to do? Since the dullness is due to an uneven surface, the use of at-home exfoliation, masks, scrubs, and peels in your facial skin-care program will bring the light back to your face. Here are three you can make in your own kitchen: Citrus Mask Photo by Rob Fiocca Photography/Getty Images 1 egg white 1 tsp freshly squeezed grapefruit juice 1 tsp freshly squeezed lemon juice2 tsp sour cream (not fat-free)

  1. BEAT the egg white in a glass bowl until it is fluffy.2. MIX the sour cream with the grapefruit and lemon juice together.3. ADD the mixture to the egg white then apply it to a clean face.4. LEAVE it for 15 minutes, then rinse off and dry your face. Why it works: Lemon and grapefruit are rich in citric acid, AHA, that is a natural exfoliator and also powerful antioxidants. They both promote a smoother, brighter looking skin. This mask is ideal for oily skin. MORE: 7 Superfoods For Radiant Skin Tomato Exfoliator Photo by serezniy/Getty Images 1 lg organic tomato 2 tsp brown sugar½ tsp honey SMOOSH the tomato in a glass bowl, then mix in the brown sugar and honey. Gently massage the mixture on your face and leave on for 5 minutes. Rinse and dry your face. Why it works: Lycopene in tomato is a powerful antioxidant that fights free radicals; brown sugar is a great exfoliator. Cinnamon Cleanser Photo by Lisovskaya/Getty Images ½ tsp ground cinnamon 2 tsp powder milk 1 Tbsp freshly brewed chamomile tea¼ tsp organic honey MIX the ingredients in a glass bowl to make a soft paste. Gently massage the paste onto wet skin. Leave it on for 2 to 3 minutes, then rinse and dry your face. Why it works: The combination of milk—lactic acid—that exfoliates; chamomile for soothing; and cinnamon, which stimulates the skin. MORE: 9 Makeup Rules For Every Woman Over 40