The attention paid to men’s health has certainly evolved over the last few decades. We have evolved from a time when men would rarely talk about (much less have) daily skincare regimens to today when industry research shows that men are spending as much money on skincare as women. Men are spending just as much money as women on skincare products, with male skincare products being the fastest-growing segment of the men’s grooming industry. With so many products, it’s easy to be overwhelmed by the sheer quantity of products available. So what is really necessary for the well-groomed man to have in his bathroom?
Healthy skin is a vital part of a person’s appearance. If your skin isn’t cared for properly, it can make you look older or unhealthy. There are many products to help men to maintain their skin including moisturizers, facial cleanser, anti-aging creams, body wash, and much more. How do you know which ones to choose, or even what you need? Here are a few things to keep in mind when selecting skincare products.
1. Avoid products with heavy scents. While smelling good is something that everyone enjoys, many scents can easily be overpowering, particularly artificial scents. Products that have artificial scents can irritate your skin, as the additives used to create the scents are typically a combination of harsh chemicals. Stick with light or natural scents. In addition to avoiding possible rashes and breakouts, your coworkers will appreciate it.
2. When applying products, less is more. Some people think that in order for a skincare product to be effective, it must be layered on like paint on a bare wall. Most of the time, this is not the case. Moisturizers should be rubbed into the skin so that the skin is moistened but not wet. Many facial cleansers require only an amount the size of a nickel or quarter to be effective. In addition to being wasteful, the excessive product can clog your pores, causing breakouts or even cause infection.
3. Go natural. Generally speaking, you want to stay as natural as possible with your skincare. Anti-acne products, for example, tend to use harsh chemicals such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. These chemicals have been known to cause chemical burns and allergic reactions, leaving permanent scars. Try and find options with fewer chemicals and that use overly artificial additives.
4. Don’t be afraid to ask for advice. Men have particular needs when it comes to skincare, just as women do, and the variations between needs can be vast. What works for women’s skin may not work for yours so it’s important to pay attention to what your specific needs are. If you spend a lot of time outdoors, for instance, you’ll want to find products that contain a minimum of 50 SPF. If your skin tends towards dryness, then a good moisturizer is going to be a cornerstone product in your repertoire. Do you break out constantly? Then products for sensitive skin might be the best choice for you. Ask your doctor what they recommend and if you need to, see a dermatologist for persistent issues.
Skincare doesn’t need to be complicated. In fact, it’s best to keep things simple. Finding the right products might take a little time but in the end, the effort will be worth it. For many men, having a healthy, virile appearance is a key part of their psyche and self-worth. Learning what skincare products work best for you is the first step in this process.
