Skincare for men has been traditionally simple. However, healthier, younger-looking skin requires a greater level of attention. In this article, we’ll talk about the most important skincare routines that men should follow. Read on!
Moisturize Properly
Regardless of your skin type, never skip moisturizing your skin. Moisturizers retain moisture from the environment and keep your skin hydrated and soft. They also trigger ceramide production in your body, which prevents water loss on your skin.
For men with oily skin, oil-free and lightweight water-based moisturizers are perfect. Choose non-comedogenic products — ones that don’t block your pores. Check the following:
- Ceramides: these are lipids that form your skin’s barrier, keeping its structure strong and healthy. Without adequate ceramides, you may experience skin problems like itching, dryness, irritation, and redness.
- Humectants: these ingredients attract moisture from your environment. The most common ingredients that serve as humectants are glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and Sorbitol.
- Lotion-based moisturizers: these types of moisturizers are light, yet they penetrate your skin easily. This makes for better oil control and enriches the skin with nutrients.
Tone Your Skin
You can reduce oil and shine by using a good blotting paper in conjunction with the right toner. Toners reduce oil buildup and minimize pores, resulting in less skin inflammation. In other words, it “resets” the skin. You can use a toner after shaving or cleansing to soothe your skin.
At the same time, be careful when choosing toners. Some of them contain alcohol and other harsh ingredients, which can leave your skin dry and irritated. A salicylic acid-based toner is great for preventing acne; it’s anti-bacterial, you can ward off zits, blackheads, and other unwanted skin problems.
To maximize the toner’s effects, use it in the morning as part of your skincare routine. Apply it after washing your face and before putting on your moisturizer. You can also use toner during the day if your skin gets too oily.
Exfoliate Regularly
Exfoliation means removing dead skin cells and allowing new, healthier skin to resurface. That way, you achieve a fresh, youthful look. It also prevents the buildup of bacteria and helps unclog your pores.
Exfoliate only once or twice a week. Over-exfoliation can cause skin dryness and inflammation, which in turn triggers excess oil production. If you have oily skin and are prone to acne, then a face scrub is good for you. It helps reduce oil levels to the proper balance, lubricating your skin with natural oils without making it too shiny.
On the flip side, if you notice irritation on the drier parts of your face, avoid exfoliating them. Instead, focus on exfoliating your T-zone: your forehead and nose.
Use a Face Mask
Face masks help replenish your skin with antioxidants and keep excess oil in check. As a result, they also help make your skin look healthy and radiant.
Use a face mask once or twice a week to deeply cleanse your skin. Clay masks are great for removing excess oil, gunk, and bacteria from your pores that can cause acne. They’re also effective for toning your skin.
Wear Sunscreen
If you often go outdoors, wearing sunscreen helps prevent sun damage, which can cause wrinkles, age spots, and skin cancer. Before going out, apply sunscreen to the exposed areas of your skin, such as your ears, neck, and even your lips.
For best results, buy a broad-spectrum and water-resistant sunscreen containing SPF 30 or higher. Then, reapply it every two hours or right after swimming or sweating. Make it a habit to seek shade and wear clothing that protects against the sun, such as a long-sleeved shirt, pants, or well-brimmed hat. Sunglasses with UV protection are also great.
Change Your Shaving Technique
Many men use multi-blade razors that might shave too closely to the skin. If you frequently experience razor bumps, burns, or ingrown hairs, a single or double-blade razor is a better option.
On top of that, don’t stretch your skin taut while shaving. Before shaving, make sure your hair and face are wet to soften them. Apply moisturizing shaving cream, and follow the direction of the hair growth. Rinse the shaved part after every swipe, and change your blade after five to seven shaves to prevent skin irritation.