It seems as though everybody, including television, newspapers and magazines, is well-aware of the need for women to take care of their skin. In more recent years, however, there is a growing interest in tips on mens skin care.
It used to be that men who cared about their skin had a very limited range of options. They may have had one or two choices, but after that, many of the products they could use were made by women and for women. Let’s face it, most guys have an image to maintain, and being seen buying «girly stuff» just doesn’t sit well. The good news for men is that the rest of the world has finally caught up to their skin care needs.
While everybody is different, men tend to have different skin than women, and that means that they need specially formulated products. Another consideration is that men who shave their faces are already doing some basic skin care, even if they are not aware of it. Furthermore, shaving requires its own set of tips on men’s skin care, adding another difference between the products men and women should be using.
Shaving tips are a good place to start:
You should only shave after taking a shower, or treating your face with a hot, wet towel. This will give your whiskers some time to get softer, allowing for an easier, closer and more comfortable shave. The razor you use makes a big difference, so it’s not a good idea to use cheap disposable razors. If you are looking for the real secret to a high-quality shave, it’s shaving oil. This is an oil that is applied to the face before the shaving foam or gel. Let the oil and foam sit for a minute or two so it has time to further soften your whiskers. Shaving in the same direction as your beard growth will minimize any bumps. Be sure to rinse off your razor after every stroke. Once you are done, apply an aftershave balm, and finally a small dash of cologne if the balm is unscented.
Generally speaking, men have more oily skin when compared to women. Washing your face with a gentle cleanser once a day will help keep the oil under control. You should avoid using regular soap because it can make your skin too dry, which can actually cause your skin to produce more oil to compensate. Look for soaps that are made for specifically for the face and don’t have chemical additives such as perfumes and dyes.
If washing your face isn’t enough, then you may want to add a toner and moisturizer to your routine. The toner will shrink your pores and make your face feel fresh, giving you a nice, peppy feeling. Moisturizer will keep your skin smooth and hydrated, and prevent early aging.
Following these basic tips on mens skin care will get you off to a good start, but it’s only a start. There are a lot of excellent products designed with men in mind. If you find one that looks good to you, be sure to grab it.