The Ultimate Guide to Men's Skincare

Developing a routine is the perfect way to get into the habit of daily skincare. Identifying your skin type is the first step to creating the perfect skincare routine. Knowing and understanding your skin is beneficial to a successful skincare routine. Here is how to identify your skin type: if your skin is sensitive, it could potentially sting or burn after using a product not specifically made for your skin; if your skin is dry, it will be flaky, itchy, and rough to the touch; if your skin is oily it will be greasy and shiny if your skin is normal it will appear clear, and if you have combination skin, your skin will be half dry and half oily.

Skincare routines are different for everyone, especially men and women. According to Cleveland Clinic Health Essentials, men have a thicker and tougher dermis layer of the skin, which causes deeper wrinkles and testosterone can make your skin more on the oily side. While this is an important factor to consider, the main factor to consider is skin type, as this will determine your ideal skincare routine. 

Here are some recommended tips from the American Academy of Dermatology Association: First things first, check ingredients in products before purchasing. Recognizing your skin type and using the correct products will help to keep your skin healthy and well taken care of. If you have acne-prone skin, using cleansers that are oil-free or non-comedogenic would be the most suitable for your skin since they won't clog your pores. If you have sensitive skin, using fragrance-free products is ideal, as using fragranced products could potentially irritate and dry out your skin. 

Washing your face is another primary factor in preserving healthy skin, and if you exercise often, washing after every workout is a must. Using a preferred gentle cleanser for your skin type along with lukewarm water is the proper way to wash your skin and free it of any dirt, oil, or additional debris. Following your proper wash, moisturizing is beneficial as it will hydrate and brighten the skin.

If you are a man who shaves, securing a shaving routine that works for you is one of the most important things you could do for your skin. Choosing the right razor can be difficult, but here are some tips to help. If multi-blade razors aren't working well for you and you shave too closely to the skin, causing razor bumps, burns, or ingrown hairs, try using a single or double-blade razor. When you are shaving, always wet your skin and hair to ensure it is soft before you begin shaving. Next, use a moisturizing shaving cream and shave in the direction the hair grows. Following this step, rinse after every use and change your blade after every five to seven shaves.

Regularly checking your skin is beneficial because if you notice any changes to the skin, such as new spots or moles that itch, bleed, and change color, you will be able to detect the early warning signs of skin cancer. If you notice any changes to your skin it is important to make an appointment with a dermatologist.

It's important to keep in mind that every individual's skin is unique and requires a personalized skincare routine to maintain a healthy appearance, but knowing and understanding your skin type is highly beneficial.