When it comes to skincare, it is a fact that men have had it simpler than women. Traditionally, guys do not spend more than 10 minutes on their morning routine, while it can take women thrice as long because there is a great deal of skincare involved. However, times have changed, and now, more men are seeking younger-looking and healthier skin. Even if you resist adding steps to your existing daily routine, it is time to do so if you want to give your appearance a boost.
Yes, there are some key differences between the skin of men and women, such as the former have thicker skin, but the primary elements of a skincare routine remain essentially the same. What are they? Here are some simple make skincare tips to follow:
Start Checking Labels
When you are out shopping for skincare products, it is time for you to start reading the labels than just picking up products at random. There are certain words and ingredients that are not just marketing boasts but indicate if a product is a good one or should be left on the shelf. Consider your skin type when you are choosing products. If your skin is acne-prone, look for ‘non-comedogenic’ or oil-free moisturizers and cleaners because they will not clog your pores. Get ‘alcohol-free’ products, so they do not dry your skin.
Another important thing to remember is that you should steer clear of scented products. The fragrance is usually the primary culprit when a skincare product causes an allergic reaction. This is because fragrances comprise numerous chemicals, and your skin can react to them, leaving blisters or causing itching, burning, and swelling. Avoid products that are ‘unscented’ as well because these typically have masking fragrances that may still irritate the skin.
Replace soap with cleanser
Soap is not something that just lathers and cleans. Soap is actually made up of fatty acids, oil, and fats, whereas cleaners are partially or fully composed of synthetic materials. According to dermatologists, using cleansers is a better option than soap for ensuring a healthier dermis. Yes, it is true that soaps can also clean you up and get rid of dirt and oil that accumulates on the skin. The problem is that they are just too good at cleaning, which means that they end up depriving your skin of the oil that it actually needs.
This means your skin gets dry, which makes it vulnerable to itching, scaling, and flaking. If you have sensitive skin, using soap can aggravate it even further. As opposed to soaps, cleaners are a lot milder, and they do not leave soap scum on the skin.
Begin using moisturizer
If you are not already doing so, it is time for you to add a moisturizer to your daily skincare routine. It should be used after you wash your face because it will trap water close to the skin, and this gives it a ‘glowy’ look. Plus, you can also reduce wrinkles with additional moisture. Using moisture ensures that you do not have dry skin and can get rid of flaky, patchy, and chapped skin.
In addition, if you choose the right moisturizer, it can also help you with dealing with inflammatory skin issues like eczema. If you want to use moisturizing creams, you should test them first because there can be allergic reactions due to stabilizers. Other than your face, you should also moisturize your entire body because this can prevent flaking, itching, and dryness.
Use warm water in the shower
Who does not want to jump into the hot shower and not come out, especially during the winters? No matter how tempting it is, it would be best if you remembered that this could also be harmful to your skin. If you bathe for long in hot water, your skin will dry out, and this leaves it flaky, scaly, and itchy. This is because the hot water strips your skin of its natural oil. It is better for you to shower with warm water, rather than hot. If you want a hot shower, do not take it for more than five minutes.
Stay away from the sun
Just like women, men need to protect themselves from the sunlight to slow down the signs of aging. Your skin ages more rapidly when it is exposed to sunlight, and this can lead to wrinkles and more. The UV rays of the sun will penetrate the epidermis and go down into the deep layers of the skin to inflict further damage. You can stay safe from the sun by using sunscreen. Just make sure it is SPF 30 or higher and use it on a cloudy day as well because UV rays can and do penetrate clouds.
Work on your shaving technique
There are additional blades added to disposable razors regularly, but do you really need them? The problem with multi-blade razors is the same as that of abrasive soaps; they work a little too well for comfort. They shave very close to the skin, so you are often left with ingrown hairs, razor burns, or bumps on the skin. It is best to stick with a single or double-blade razor and no more.
Moreover, you should not stretch your skin taut when you shave and always soften your skin first before you get started. A moisturizing shaving cream can be used, and always rinse the razor after every swipe. Make sure you are shaving in the direction of the hair growth. You can also keep irritation to a minimum by getting rid of the blade once you have used it five to seven times.
No need to use aftershave
Aftershave was introduced back when only straight razors were available. As they often caused nicks, it left men vulnerable to infections and germs. This led to the introduction of aftershave that would have an alcohol base for preventing infections. As you do not use straight razors these days, aftershaves are no longer useful. If you do want to use one, look for one that does not have an alcohol base and can also moisturize your skin.
Incorporate these skincare tips into your daily routine, and you will be able to notice a major difference in your skin.
