The Men Have It.......

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.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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-      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