Most men are known to spend less than 20 minutes getting ready, not caring about skincare or doing their hair, while women are known for having an extensive morning routine. However, throwing traditional tropes to the past, many men are putting effort into their routine and caring for their skin. In honor of Movember(opens in a new tab), we’ve outlined 5 simple skincare tips for men.
Trade in Soap for Cleansers
While it may seem like soap and cleansers are the same thing, they are actually quite different. While they serve the same purpose, soap can be too harsh on your skin. Cleansers are made of synthetic materials which many dermatologists agree are better for your skin.
Soap does a very good job of removing dirt and oils, but it actually does too good of a job. Typical bar soap can strip your skin of its natural oils, weakening its moisture barrier. Losing this barrier can lead to your skin being dry and flaky. Cleansers are milder and offer a more gentle clean that allows your skin to retain its moisture.
Use Moisturizer Daily
Moisturizer is one of the most important parts of any skincare routine. When you use a moisturizer, it traps water and moisture close to your face, helping you achieve that glowing skin look. It makes dry skin look and feel better, and it reduces wrinkles too!
Most moisturizers are oil-based, which is great for men with normal skin, and a must for those with dry skin. If you have oily skin, try finding a water-based moisturizer that won’t clog your pores. Whenever you are testing a new moisturizer, experiment with it by patch testing, especially if you have sensitive skin and are prone to allergic reactions.
While moisturizing your face is essential, it’s good to put some lotion on your whole body as well. After you hop out of the shower, use your favorite body lotion to moisturize your skin.
Shave Carefully
After you’ve shaved, you want to avoid razor bumps. Razor bumps are caused by irritated hair follicles, and they can be both uncomfortable and unsightly. To avoid razor bumps, you can take some steps to soften your stubble before you shave.
A simple trick to soften stubble is to shave in the shower or do it right after you get out, as the warm water makes it easier for the razor to cut through on damp skin. You can also use shaving cream to lubricate your shave and reduce razor burn. Shoot for a shaving cream that is moisturizing and avoid products with alcohol as it can dry out your skin.
You also want to be wary of how many blades your razor has. The same way soap can be too abrasive, razors with too many blades can be the same. When using a razor with multiple blades, the shave could be too close and leave razor bumps, ingrown hairs, and more. Try sticking with one or two blades and avoid pulling your skin taut while you shave.
Finally, you may want to lose the aftershave. Aftershave was used in the olden days of manscaping when straight razors were used and could leave you vulnerable to germs and infection. Most razors nowadays account for that risk, so there’s no need to use aftershave -- which is alcohol-based -- and dry out your skin. If you would like to continue using aftershave, look for a moisturizing one without an alcohol base.
Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated and drinking water has countless benefits, one of them being great skin. You can’t just bank on your moisturizer for skin hydration, though: your body needs to be hydrated from the inside too. Be sure to drink enough water each day, like the recommended amount of 6 to 8 glasses a day.
You should also be aware of how much alcohol and caffeine you are taking in, as that can dehydrate you. Try to limit your intake of those and always balance it out with food and water when you do.
Wear Sunscreen
One of the best ways to protect your skin from dryness, wrinkles, and more is to protect yourself from the sun. Sun exposure can cause signs of early aging and more serious skin problems.
You should always wear sunscreen, even when it’s not sunny out as UV rays still penetrate through clouds. It’s recommended that you wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Some face moisturizers are made with an SPF so you can be protected and moisturized in one go.
If you have visible signs of sun damage, PURE Medi-Spa offers chemical peels and more to reverse signs of early aging from sun damage.
You don’t have to have a 7 step skincare routine for your skin to look great. You can keep it simple and still take good care of your skin. As long as you follow these simple tips, you can still be out of the house quickly in the morning and show up to work with glowing skin! If you are experiencing trouble with your skin, PURE Medi-Spa offers a variety of esthetic services for acne, sun damage, and more.
Dr. Scott Mckenna, MD, and his highly experienced team of medical estheticians specialize in professional treatment options to help you feel and look your best. Schedule your free consultation online or call us at (570)-941-8460 for more information.
