FINALLY! times are changing and men are actively looking after their skin and taking more notice of the benefits of good skin care products and a good skin care regime HORAYYYY!
Men are now recognising that skin care brings a more youthful, smoother complexion, balanced and softer skin. Traditionally men have either not had a skin care regime or had a very simple one such as: wash with soap and water, shave, apply aftershave and GO. However, this is not adequate anymore, and men are now actively perusing healthier, younger and clearer skin's.
So, if you are keen to look after your skin but don't know where to start, here is my guide to help you.
Firstly, you must understand your skin type to help you to select the right skin care products for your skin that will make a difference. Ask yourself the following questions then follow the tips below:
- Do you have sensitive skin which burns, stings, reddens or itches after using products?
- Is your skin dry, flaky, feels tight or is rough?
- Is your skin oily which feels wet and greasy and is shiny?
- Do you have combination skin that is both dry and oily?
- Is your skin normal which is clear, not sensitive oily or dry?
Find the right product for your skin type.
It is very confusing when you go to the shop and see hundreds of bottles on the shelves labelled gels, creams, serums, foams and labels that make claims such as age defying, intense, defence, advanced and hydrating! Oh my goodness, there's so much choice, it's all too overwhelming!
But you can make it easy: choose one brand, you don't need to walk out with them all. The product you choose will depend on your skin type, so if you are prone to spots then look for an ex-foliating cleanser and an oil free moisturiser. If your skin is sensitive look for “sensitive skin” on the label and avoid fragranced products and so on.
Let's be honest, no man is going to search through every bottle and read every label! Men want to use as little as possible and have great skin with little effort. And don't we all, I think this philosophy is spot on. My professional advice to both men and women is: KEEP IT SIMPLE! Cleanse, moisturise, sunscreen DONE!
If you are struggling or you can't work it out, then contact me, I am more than happy to help anyone. And remember, we have a fantastic selection of amazing products in the clinic that NEVER FAIL, so for those who want an easier life, let me assess your skin and prescribe a tailored regime for you.
Once you have selected your products follow these tips:
- Wash your face thoroughly twice a day and after exercise, with warm water and your chosen cleanser. If your face feels dry and tight after cleansing, then you have got the wrong product, throw it away and try again. Cleansing will remove old dead skin cells and clean deep into the pores to remove dirt, debris, grease and sweat.
- When shaving, use a blade that will not pull on the hairs, which can leave behind ingrown hairs and razor irritation. If you get razor bumps, burns or ingrown hairs then avoid shaving too close to the skin. Don't pull your skin taught when you shave and shave in the direction of the hair growth. Wet your skin with warm water prior to shaving to soften the hairs or shave after showering. Use a thick shaving gel or foam, never soap. You may also want to consider dry shaving with an electric razor.
- Moisturise twice a day especially after shaving. Moisturising will leave your skin feeling soft and supple and nourish your skin by keeping the moisture locked into your skin. This will help to reduce fine lines and brighten your skin and over time your skin will look healthy and radiant.
- And finally, a water based sunscreen which is arguably “the most important part of your skin care regime”, and should be applied in generous amounts. It doesn't matter what you apply to your skin, NOTHING is more important than protecting your skin from harmful sun rays. You are simply wasting your time on a skin care regime if you don't protect your skin. And you are also wasting your time if you use anything less than a FACTOR 50! Additionally, and often forgotten about, is the top of your head. For those who are balding, look after the skin on your head which is high risk of developing skin cancers as a consequence of sun exposure.
So to conclude, it is as simple as you want it to be. But remember, you should not be in the bathroom for hours applying multiple lotions and potions. If you have the right skin care, you shouldn't have to work hard. My simple rule of thumb is “cleanse, moisturise, protect and GO”
Blog written by Karen Johnson