The men have
it….skincare is not only for women. An increasing number of men of all ages are
no longer shy talking about their skincare regime. November (http://uk.movember.com/)
proudly boasts its vision to have an everlasting impact on men’s health. This
has led to a plethora of men showcasing all sorts of amazing facial hair and
increasingly talking and swapping skincare tips on moustache waxes, skin
cleansers, moisturizers, shower gels etc.
More and more
skincare brands are developing specific formulations and promoting men’s
skincare ranges from a few pounds to top end skincare products costing
significantly more with sporting and celebrity icons being associated with a
specific product and brand.
So, are men
more savvy when it comes to choosing a brand? Who knows, time will tell but what
is obvious is they are becoming more discerning in their choice of skincare and
noting the ingredients that make up their products, their benefits and who in
terms of sporting heroes and celebrities, eco credentials and who uses the
brand. Men’s magazines such as Men’s Health Magazine and GQ for example also
play an informative role in highlighting product reviews and new product
information.
Still, the
fact remains that adopting a good skincare routine starts in adolescence and
eating a healthy diet, keeping fit and active and getting enough sleep all
contribute to good health and good health generally equates to good skin. The
basics remain:
-
Exfoliate to keep skin free of dead skin
cells and remove toxins and buildup of dirt, grease and products. Depending on
skin type, use a gentle exfoliator ideally without any harsh chemicals or
preservatives such as parabens or MI that may cause an allergic reaction. If
off the shelf products don’t suit, make your own with a tablespoon of porridge
oats, honey and plain live yogurt. Mix together and gently massage over face
and neck area. Leave for a couple of minutes and wash off using tepid water.
Pat dry.
-
Shave correctly using the appropriate
wet/dry shaver and if you suffer from ingrowing hairs, ensure you clean thoroughly
to ensure no infection occurs. Always use a new or toughly clean razor. Nicks
and cuts can be treated with medicated creams or a drop of lavender mixed in
with cool plain yogurt as it is antibacterial /fungal. If you shave your head, beware of cuts, nicks
and razor bumps and make sure you get the right products and protect your skin
with an extra rich moisturizer or vitamin rich post shave balm. Borealis Post
Shave Balm Enhanced
by Rosehip & Cold Pressed Pumpkin Seed Oil, rich in zinc helping to repair
dry, mature and sensitive skin. Sea Buckthorn CO2 Extract and Vitamin E add to
the effectiveness of the balm. The combined active ingredients help protect and
nourish your skin.
-
Tone – many women don’t like toners as
they can leave the skin feeling dry and taught. However, men’s skin is thicker
and generally will have more oil so using a toner may be beneficial and not
leave the skin taught and dry but experiment to find what suits you best. Try
and avoid those containing alcohol as they can be drying and irritating to the
skin.
-
Moisturize – again find a
natural /organic product that is suitable for your skin type. Men tend to have
thicker skin and it is affected by different hormones to women. Different
carrier oils such as Rosehip are excellent for oily, combination and sensitive
skins and acne sufferers. It helps
cell regeneration and elasticity of the skin. Macadamia oil is great for dry
skin whilst almond oil is a good all round skin moisturizer. Essential oils
such as cedarwood and lemongrass are good for oil & combination skin,
sandalwood for normal to mature skin
- SPF protection when in the sun.
Always wear a SPF when sunbathing or outdoors activity this is particularly
important for those with Celtic skin types, typically red haired, freckles,
pale skin that is prone to burning easily as people with fair skins are more susceptible
to melanoma (skin cancer).
-
Adapt to the seasons: Winter can play
havoc with skin and lack of sunshine can impact negatively for sufferers of
psoriasis and rosacea. If the condition flares up seek out medical advice as
you may be eligible for phototherapy sessions – this is where the body / face /
affected areas are exposed to specific wavelengths using light sources such as
lasers, florescent lamps, light emitting diodes. Now large chemists also offer
solutions for these conditions and sell a range of lamps marketed at those
suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) which may help with the above
skin conditions but always seek medical advice.
-
Diet – avoid hot, spicy dishes and
alcohol if you suffer from rosacea and/or psoriasis as this may trigger flare
ups. Hard when cold winter days and evenings make hot food and often spicy food
more appealing. Ensure you each at least five fruit & vegetables a day and
a good sources of Omega oils, nuts and lean
protein such as chicken, pork, eggs.
-
- Exercise – a brisk walk for 30mins a day
if you don’t like gyms, cycling or outdoor activities. This boosts circulation
helping skin retain a healthy glow and assists cell regeneration.
-
Sleep – ensure you
get a minimum of seven hours as your skin is an overall reflection of your
lifestyle and age so treat it with the respect it deserves.
Men’s skincare product guides
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