Stereotypes, sexy advertising, and even science have shown men’s skin to typically be thicker and less sensitive than their female counterparts. But worries about dry skin, dark circles, and wrinkles plague men, too. Luckily, there are some tried and true methods for men to achieve healthy skin.
1. Wake up and Wash
Splash some cold water on that tired face, then use a wash with glycolic acid for a deep clean that doesn’t dry you out. Though it sounds like it might be made in a lab, glycolic acid is a natural product derived from sugar cane. It’s a gentle way to get rid of dead skin cells, stimulate new cell growth, and unclog pores, giving you all-around clearer skin. Repeat before going back to bed at night.
2. Exfoliate
Thicker skin means larger pores, so exfoliating is arguably even more important for men than women. Use a granular gel, like this one from Guinot, 2 to 3 times a week to smooth imperfections. This is also the first step to prevent ingrown facial hairs and lessen irritations associated with shaving.
3. Moisturize
It’s easy to get lost in label translation so follow these tips when choosing a moisturizer: If your skin is normal, dry, or flaky, use an oil-based product. If you have oily skin and are prone to breakouts, use a water-based product. The best time to use moisturizer is twice daily, immediately after washing to seal in moisture. For bonus benefits, find a moisturizer that contains antioxidants such as Vitamins A, C, E, and green tea to aid against free radical damage and help your skin retain its youthfulness.
4. Pay Attention to Your Eyes
Dark circles can indicate that you are over-stressed or under-rested. The skin around our eyes is thinner than the rest of our faces and for men and women alike, often shows the first signs of aging. To reduce puffiness, darkness, and wrinkles, try an eye product like Guinot Anti-Fatigue Gel with Horse Chestnut Extract to drain and improve circulation and Vitamin E to protect against external aggressors.
5. Shave Slowly
The simplest way to ensure a smooth shave is to slow down! Rinse your face with hot water to prep skin for shaving- if time allows, rest a hot, soaked towel on your face for a few minutes beforehand. Use a brush to lather shaving cream deeper into facial hair, allowing a closer, cleaner shave. Let shaving cream soak into the skin for 2 to 3 minutes before beginning to shave. Finish by rinsing with cold water to prevent inflammation.
Don’t let being a man take away from giving your skin the nourishment it deserves. Start by paying more attention to these five areas and healthy skin will follow.