Skincare secrets every man should know
As complicated as facial care can be for women, men have a few more factors to consider. Indeed, there are the essentials of cleansers and moisturizers. But, there is also the razor, the possible shaving brush, the frequency of shaving and the after-shave. However, investing in the proper items and developing a good routine can make skincare easy.
Start with a cleanser
Most guys don't have to worry about washing makeup off their faces at the end of the day. However, that doesn't mean you're exempt from daily face washing. A lot of pollutants can accumulate on the face throughout the day and can quickly clog up your pores. Try to implement a nightly routine of washing your face right when you get home from work or before you go to bed. That way, you'll get rid of the impurities as soon as possible and wake up with a clean face.
There are gentler facial cleansers specially formulated to combat oil, clean out pores and moisturize. Make sure you don't use anything too strong. Exfoliators can be great if used correctly. Over exfoliating can open up your pores to more damage and overly harsh chemicals can dry out or irritate your skin .
Find the right razor
The market for facial razors is staggering. There are the cheap disposable ones, multi-blade kinds, electric ones, old-school safety razors and even barbershop-style razors. Extra blades may seem like a good option if you're looking to cut your facial hair as close as possible and perhaps cut back a couple of routine shavings. However, there are risks that come with these razors.Esquire magazine noted that multi-blade razors can also remove layers of skin, creating sensitivity and ingrown hairs.
Consider a shaving brush
Shaving brushes are optional but suggested by many dermatologists because they can make your shave smoother. You can always skip the brush and go straight for the shaving cream. However, the brush offers the additional benefit of lifting the hairs, allowing for a closer shave. It may also lift out any ingrown hairs that would otherwise stay under the skin. Additionally, the hairs on the brush act as an exfoliator, opening up your pores to better absorb the after-shave and moisturizer you'll definitely be applying after your shave. Shaving brushes come in various grades that range in softness. Be sure to pick one that best suits you.
Don't forget the after-shave
Remember that shaving your face is essentially removing your body's natural defense against nature. The face has some of the most sensitive skin on the body and not caring for it properly after a shave can wreak havoc. Thomas Cheung is a master barber at The Art of Shaving and told The Huffington Post that after-shave is essential.
"After-shave hydrates and soothes the skin; it also seals in the skin after a nice shave," Cheung stated. "Your after-shave should be alcohol-free because alcohol dries your skin - plain and simple."
Protect yourself against the elements
After-shave is an essential product to use right after the razor. However, facial moisturizer is equally important. Not only does it keep your skin hydrated but it also serves as a layer of protection against pollutants. When shopping for moisturizers, consider the Elemis Daily Moisture Boost 50ml, which is specifically made for men and includes ingredients to help soothe the skin after shaving.
Sunscreen is always recommended regardless of the season. No matter where you are, there are UVA and UVB rays shining on you. It's essential to apply SPF to avoid sunburn, redness and skin cancer.
Kick some habits while you're at it
There may be some bad routines you've incorporated into your daily life that definitely don't help your skin. Smoking causes the blood vessels in the outermost layers of your skin to narrow and inhibits the absorption of essential oxygen and nutrients. Smoking also damages collagen and elastin, which are the critical connective fibers that keep your skin smooth. Without them, you'll start to see more wrinkles and sagging that no amount of moisturizer will be able to fix.
Another is the over-consumption of alcohol. Discovery Health states that drinking alcohol leads to the dilation of facial blood vessels, which makes red, spidery veins. That flush you get from drinking too much? Imagine it staying there forever. It is also noted that people with pre-existing skin conditions are in an even worse position, as the effects of drinking alcohol can worsen their symptoms.
Take care of your face
Facial care for men requires just as much, if not more work and products than skincare for women. Take it one step at a time and first establish a healthy routine of cleansing and moisturizing. Meanwhile, do some research on quality shaving solutions and figure out what items best for you. Who knows? Perhaps once you have a fancy brush and razor, shaving will no longer be a routine you want to put off.