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Things are different today compared to how they were in the 1950s or even early 2000s. Trends change, society evolves, and it leads to changes in all areas of life. This includes self-care, especially for men. For a long time, the skincare industry marketed itself to women exclusively — with the preconceived notion being that men don’t and shouldn’t buy skincare products.
Today, an increasing number of men realize that skincare isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s about their health, hygiene and self-confidence too. From facial treatments to eating right, here’s how to build an effective routine for men while breaking down barriers.
Skincare – for Everyone?
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While skincare is often associated with beauty, it plays a crucial role in overall health too. Men’s skin has different physiological characteristics compared to women’s, which means that it requires curated care. Here’s why every man should take care of their skin:
- Higher sebum production: Men tend to have oilier skin because of increased testosterone levels, making them more susceptible to acne and breakouts.
- Thicker skin: Male skin is about 25% thicker than female skin, which affects the absorption of skincare products.
- Shaving-related irritation: Regular shaving causes irritation, ingrown hairs, and razor burns, which requires soothing and hydrating skincare products.
- Environmental damage: Pollution, UV rays and blue light exposure can lead to premature aging, hyperpigmentation and sun damage.
Evolving Perspectives
For decades, skincare was perceived as feminine, leading many men to avoid it out of fear of judgment. But with changing times, social media, male influencers, and dermatologists advocating skincare, the perception is evolving.
High-profile celebrities such as David Beckham and Pharell Williams have openly discussed their skincare routines, normalizing the practice. Many brands like Garnier are developing products specifically formulated for men, catering to their unique skin concerns. With growing knowledge about skincare benefits, more men are now informed on why they should invest in skincare.
Building an Effective Skincare Routine
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There’s a huge misconception that skincare routines need to be complicated, especially with trends such as ‘10 Step Skincare Routines’ making the rounds on social media. A good skincare routine doesn’t need to be complicated or time-consuming. There are basic steps that should be included, such as:
Step 1: Get the Grime Off
A gentle cleanser removes dirt, excess oil, and impurities without stripping the skin of its natural moisture. Use a salicylic acid facewash for oily skin, or a hyaluronic acid facewash for dry skin.
Step 2: Say Bye to Dead Skin Cells (Twice a week)
Remove dead skin cells through exfoliation, with ingredients such as glycolic or lactic acid.
Step 3: Lock in Hydration
No matter what your skincare routine looks like, you can’t skip hydration! A good moisturizer has the dual ability to lock in moisture while strengthening the skin barrier. Ingredients like niacinamide are ideal for oil control, whereas a ceramide-based moisturizer is ideal for dry skin. For brighter, glowing skin, look for ozonated creams that improve skin health.
Step 4: Sun Protection
Don’t forget the SPF! Sunscreen is the most important step to prevent premature aging (wrinkles and sunspots), hyperpigmentation and skin cancer. Apply sunscreen every day, even on cloudy days, where UV rays can still penetrate the skin. If you’re planning to be outdoors, it’s advisable to apply sunscreen every 2 hours.
Consider adding an extra step if you’re dealing with specific skin concerns. For acne-prone skin, spot treatments (specifically those with benzoyl peroxide) can work well. Retinol-based skincare can target signs of aging and wrinkles. For hyperpigmentation, consider ozone-infused or vitamin C-infused skincare.
Level Up Your Routine
A good skincare routine isn’t the whole picture – you still need to take care of your health to have healthy skin. Drink plenty of water to keep your skin clear, and think about hormone tests if you tend to have acne flare-ups. Get plenty of sleep, as lack of sleep can cause dull skin and dark circles.
High-stress levels can also trigger breakouts and make your skin inflamed. Practice yoga, breathing exercises or meditation to keep your stress levels healthy. And when it comes to shaving, always use a sharp razor while shaving in the direction of hair growth.
Confidence = Healthy Skin
Skincare for men isn’t about vanity, it’s about self-care and health. As the stigma around men’s skincare fades, it’s time to embrace the benefits of proper skin maintenance. By understanding your skin’s needs and following a simple but effective routine, men can achieve healthy and radiant skin.
Whether you’re new to skincare or just looking to upgrade your regime, now is the perfect time to invest in self-care!