When it comes to looking good, skincare is just as important as fashion. Almost half of all men use facial skincare products as part of their daily routine, CNN reports. A good skincare routine doesn’t have to be complicated; a healthier, younger-looking complexion can be accomplished in just a few simple steps. Taking care of facial hair, cleansing, exfoliating, and moisturizing is all you need to protect and nourish your skin and create a smooth, blemish-free face.
Take care of facial hair
Achieving the perfect shave will put an end to razor bumps, razor burns, and ingrown hairs. Before shaving, always wet your skin and hair and apply a foaming shaving cream. Leaving the cream to sit for a few minutes will let it penetrate the hair for maximum softness. Always shave in the direction of the hair growth to minimize grazing. Afterwards, rinse with cold water to prevent inflammation.
Don’t forget nose hair grooming. Waxing is a tempting solution to get rid of those pesky hairs, but it can actually lead to infections and a weakened immune system. Trimming nose hair is a safer method, so invest in a pair of scissors or trimmer. Trim once every two weeks or whenever the hairs become noticeable.
Cleanse every morning and night
Cleansing prevents clogged pores, zits, and excess shine, creating a clean canvas to help moisturizer or exfoliant work to its fullest potential. Cleanse in the morning to remove dirt accumulated overnight (your pillowcase harbors bacteria which causes acne and a dull complexion). Repeat before bed to wipe away the day’s built up grime and excess oil.
Acne-prone skin responds best to oil-free or non-comedogenic cleaners. Alternately, fragranced cleansers irritate sensitive skin, so opt for a mild, fragrance-free one.
Exfoliate twice a week
After cleansing, it’s important to remove dead skin cells on the surface of the skin which clog pores and cause breakouts. Exfoliate twice weekly with a gentle face scrub to reveal healthy skin cells and a brighter complexion. Exfoliating paves the way for a smoother shave and prevents ingrown hairs and cuts. Oily skin suits scrubs containing salicylic acid which reduces inflammation. If you have sensitive skin, pick a cleanser balanced for the skin’s pH — between 3.5 to 4.2 — to avoid over-stripping or irritating your face.
Finally, finish off your skin care routine with a moisturizer to hydrate the skin and form a protective barrier against external pollutants. Applying moisturizer in the morning replenishes moisture lost during sleep. Applying it before bed provides vitamins and nutrients to support your body’s cells regenerate. While there’s no “one-size-fits-all” approach to skincare, these basic tips will have your complexion looking healthier, smoother, and brighter in no time.
