When talking about skincare we tend to focus on women. However, men suffer from many of the same problems women do when it comes to caring for their skin. Pimples, sun damage and aging affect men the same way they do women. The difference is most men do not want a complex daily skincare routine, they want something quick and easy. We have some simple skincare tips for men that will help ensure the health of their skin for years to come.
Cleanse your face twice daily. Bacteria, pollution and oils build up on your skin and can lead to clogged pores making you more likely to have an acne breakout. Wash with a mild soap, gentle facial wash or use a face toner to keep your face bacteria and oil free. If you prefer an all-natural option, 100% Coconut Oil makes a great facial cleanser and is ideal for all skin types.
When we think about washing our face, shaving or taking a shower we think about how nice hot water feels on our skin. Don’t do it!! Hot water can be damaging to your skin because it removes the natural oils causing your skin to dry, flake and crack. Always use lukewarm water and do not spend an extended amount of time in the shower.
Before shaving make sure your face is well moisturized. Apply a cream, oil or lotion to your face to help soften your skin and prepare it for the razor. Shaving dry skin can result in cuts, irritation and razor burn. After shaving reapply a moisturizer to your face. This will soothe your skin and reduce burning and irritation which results from razor burn. It will restore any moisture lost during shaving.
Apply a moisturizer to your body when your skin is still damp. Moisturizers absorb better into damp skin than dry skin. Daily moisturizing with a cream, lotion or oil rich in natural ingredients such as Cocoa Butter or Vitamin E helps your skin to stay well hydrated, smooth and protected.
Don’t forget about your hands. Hands take abuse all day long from exposure to water as well as outdoor elements. Keep a handy travel size cream in your desk, car or gym bag and apply it several times a day for healthy, soft hands.
Drink lots of water, eight 8 oz. glasses a day helps keep your skin from drying out. Hydrating from the inside out helps to maintain your skin’s natural moisture balance. Avoid too much caffeine and alcohol, both these beverages are dehydrating and will contribute to your skin drying, flaking and cracking.
High sugar diet can lead to acne breakouts. Choose healthy snacks such as apples, berries or vegetables. Many of these fruits and vegetables contain antioxidants which help fight free radical damage. Free radicals are molecules that can damage the skin and cause wrinkles. A healthy diet rich in antioxidants will help fight damage caused by these molecules.
Avoid sun exposure. The UV rays of the sun are damaging. You may not see the damage right away but over time wrinkles and sun spots may appear. Apply an SPF to your face and body when you are spending time in the sun.
Don’t smoke! Smoking is harmful to your body inside and out. It causes fine lines and wrinkles around your mouth which immediately ages you. It also decrease circulation which can cause your skin to lose it natural, healthy glow.
A few simple steps taken daily can lead to healthy glowing skin for years to come.