A Guide to a Better Complexion in Two Weeks
Once upon a time I was a Menswear and Lifestyle Editor, here's a men's skincare guide that may inspire some last minute holiday shopping. Enjoy!
Skin care is extremely important! It is the body’s biggest organ and many men overlook these rituals as too feminine. Exfoliating and moisturizing are key in maintaining long term health, not just your skin but overall health by minimizing exposure to UV rays and infections. If you have a beard or any facial hair pattern as a part of your look, skincare and grooming go hand-in-hand. Here are some key tips on how to look your best without too much fuss.
1. Toner
What is toner? It is basically a strong astringent to cut the oil from the skin surface. This is great for the midday refresher or after a workout when you are strapped for time and can’t stop for a shower. Ideally you want an alcohol free toner since it can dry out your skin; causing breakage at the skin surface can make you more susceptible to infections. Especially in the summer many experience dry skin from the suns rays, so best to get an astringent from the Kiehls men’s line or Lab Series Skincare for Men.
2. Moisturize
So so important, if you do nothing else; always lotion up immediately after a hot shower. This is the time when the skin is most porous and will easily absorb the lotion without leaving behind a greasy film. This is especially important for those of you with beards, soften up your whiskers with a olive oil or coconut oil based product. You could use the pure oil, but Shea Moisture makes a product that is easy to handle in a 2 ounce tube. Look for Shea Butter Beard Softener & Skin Protector in large chain stores like the Vitamin Shoppe in the US or look online. For all over body moisturizer, Shiseido makes an amazing product line for men. Their lotions cover evenly and the skin will soak it up without leaving behind any streaks or stains on clothes. You want to follow up with a UVA/ UVB sunscreen all year long, to minimize sun exposure and decrease fine lines developing on the skin; not just on your face but arms and legs too.
3. Exfoliate
If you keep your face clean shaven all year you probably have problems with razor burn and dry skin around the jawline and the neck. Exfoliation is key in relieving these problems. If you have a seriously thick layer of skin to slough off, use a small facial brush with natural bristles (DHC makes a great one) with your exfoliant. Clarins makes a cleanser rich with microbeads, use this on your brush in a circular motion in the skin. Especially pay attention to your jawline, since this is the place where ingrown hairs love to live.
4. Shave
After you exfoliate is the ideal time to shave. Every man has their own rituals surrounding the shave, but everyone could use a little help. Toss your fancy sonic razor for a back-to-basics style of shaving; you will get a closer shave and it will last longer when you maintain a regular skincare routine. Some great men’s lines can be found at Sephora, the brand The Art of Shaving based in New York offers a package including after shave, pre-shave oil and shaving cream with a natural bristle lathering brush. Nothing beats a straight razor, if you have a chance to splurge stop in at Yan Barbershop at 482 Third Avenue.
5. Problem Skin
If you suffer from acne breakouts later in life, you may have to start looking at your diet and any prescription meds you may be on. Acne can happen at any time, it may be stress related or just genetics. Either way you can do something about it! Try a combination of green tea and raw ginger in the morning every day for a month. The natural antibacterial properties of these two elements will help rid the body of toxins, therefore flushing out any unwanted bacteria that is making its way to the skin's surface. Within one week you will begin to see the difference.
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