Despite their rough and tumble nature, men also need the same TLC as women. They also have similar needs to be met and aspirations to be fulfilled. And when it comes to men’s skincare, they also have the same cleansing and moisturizing requirements to keep their skin clear and healthy. However, men usually handle their skin the way they do most things. For them, the simpler the routine, the better. Yet, there are so many products and different regimens that it can sometimes be confusing. Here are 6 essential steps to make your skincare routine a breeze.
1. Wash your face
According to dermatologists, men should wash their faces twice—once during the day and the second time at night before going to bed. Washing your face too frequently can strip your skin of the natural oils it needs to stay moisturized. However, it’s recommended that you cleanse your face after every workout or after being exposed to highly-polluted environments. In addition, because men typically have larger pores than women, it’s recommended that you use a gentle cleanser that has salicylic acid to help get rid of the gunk.
Remember that you need not purchase the most expensive cleanser on the market. Many products contain unnecessary ingredients that do not provide additional benefits. Also, make sure to use warm water instead of hot water. Too much heat can dry out your skin by damaging the keratin that keeps the moisture in.
2. Moisturize
Soft and healthy skin is not just aesthetically pleasing but can go a long way to make you feel comfortable. On the other hand, having dry and flaky skin, aside from being upsetting and stressful, can also weaken your skin’s protective barrier, making skin more vulnerable to infections. If your skin is typically average, opt for a light, water-based moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated. As with cleansing, try to moisturize at least twice a day.
3. Read the labels
Finding out what products to use doesn’t need to be such a task. All you need to do is go for plastic-free skincare products or products with skin-friendly ingredients. Examples of these are hyaluronic acid, ceramides, Alpha-Hydroxy Acids (AHAs), and Vitamins B3, C, and E. Stay away from toxic chemicals such as Parabens, Phthalates, Oxybenzone, and Formaldehyde.
For more delicate skin conditions such as acne, before you put everything that’s labeled “for acne treatment” in your cart, it’s best to consult a dermatologist. Medical professionals are best trained to treat damaged skin and recommend the right products for you. See an expert to make sure the products you use don’t worsen your skin condition or cause allergic reactions.
4. Protect your skin with sunscreen
This is one skincare step that should be really easy for you. After all, you just have to slather the sunscreen lotion, and you’re good to go, right? Not quite. Several studies by Oxford University revealed that melanoma cases are rising in men aged 15 to 39 years. At the same time, another study in the U.S. showed that only 51% of men used sunscreen. Why the disinterest in using that one thing that can effectively protect you from the harmful and possibly life-threatening ultraviolet rays of the sun?
It is typical for men to view the use of sunscreen as “feminine.” This is partly because marketing campaigns on sunscreen products have mainly targeted the female demographic. But, unfortunately, tanned skin also represents a solid masculine vibe among many men. But with the surge of skin cancer among men, you need to start paying attention to this most overlooked healthy skin habit.
Jumpstart your sun protection by getting a sunscreen lotion with at least an SPF of 30. If you can, protect yourself by wearing sunscreen indoors AND outdoors. Avoid frequent and prolonged sun exposure as much as you can. Because men can feel particularly uncomfortable and icky with greasy skin, finding a sunscreen with a light formulation can help you stick to the habit. There are many organic sunscreens in the market that won’t weigh you down.
5. Get your Zzzs
Sleep early! Although every hour in slumber is precious, when you’re in deep sleep between the hours of 11am and 2pm, you can support the release of HGH or the Human Growth Hormone. This hormone plays a significant role in repairing your damaged cells and tissues and optimizing your metabolism. Poor sleeping habits can result in the decline of HGH production. Without HGH, your skin becomes more susceptible to premature aging as your body becomes at risk for age-related diseases. HGH also helps improve blood circulation and support collagen production to make your skin better-nourished and firmer.
Parting Thoughts
This 5-step daily routine should make it real effortless for anyone to start and sustain a skincare habit. So what are you waiting for? Be man enough and take care of your skin today!