Men's skin care

A man's skin is approximately 20% thicker than a woman's, and is typically firmer because it's richer in collagen and elastin. However, because of more active sebaceous glands, men's skin tends to be much oilier. It is also more prone to dehydration because of daily or regular shaving Basically, this means you get dirtier. It is very important; no matter what skin type you have, to clean your face every day. Deep cleansing is important. It keeps pores clear, skin healthy and you looking good. As we mature, biochemical changes occur in elastin and collagen, the connective tissues that give skin its firmness and elasticity.

In general, male skin is oilier, with larger pores, a richer blood supply, and an increased a tendency to "sweat." Men are less prone to wrinkling than women, and may require deep cleansing daily. The skin aging process is the same for men and women, but for men it occurs later and is more marked. In a man's skin, the dermis is thicker and richer in collagen, and the epidermis is often more oily. Therefore, it's more resistant than a woman's skin to the effects of the sun and other environmental factors. Around the age of 40 to 50 years, the dermis layer of a man's skin thins, and the level of collagen decreases naturally yet dramatically, causing deeper wrinkles to appear. Just as for women, men can prevent and correct the signs of aging with appropriate skin care.

A man's skin is his first defense against the effects of the sun, climate, and other environmental factors such as air pollution. The skin fulfils essential functions: body-temperature regulation, elimination of perspiration and toxins, and more. A man's skin needs to be protected effectively and daily. Some men don't want to be bothered with too many skincare products. However, starting with a regimen of basics - cleansing, protection, and moisturizing after shaving - is an effective skincare routine. To a man who simply washes his face with soap and water, this may seem like a complicated regimen. However, the benefits of these few simple steps are abundant.

Daily face washing will keep pores unclogged, which in turn can prevent a variety of skin conditions, from pimples to ingrown hairs, which are not only painful and unattractive, but can also leave discolored marks on the skin's surface.

Daily shaving can dry men's skin out. To combat this, look for shaving foams that are specifically designed to treat your skin type, whether it's sensitive skin, dry skin, or skin prone to imperfections. Sensitive skin may be characterized by redness, a burning sensation, and a tendency to experience razor burn. Dry skin may feel tight and lacking in elasticity. Skin prone to imperfections may be characterized by pimples, razor bumps, and ingrown hairs. After shaving, skin should be soothed with a moisturizer or an after-shave balm. Men's skin should also be protected from the sun for optimum health. Look for sunscreens or moisturizers with an SPF of 15 or higher for best protection. Shaving gel is a much better option than shaving cream, which has air pockets that can lead to nicks. Gel should be applied clear, as lathering produces the same effect as a cream and can also be drying to skin. A swivel-head razor will decrease nicks, as opposed to a disposable razor.

Men have a built-in advantage in the aging process--their skin is thicker and more oily than a woman's skin. Always steam the face before shaving. This allows the hair follicles to open up 30 percent more. If the water isn't hot enough, just microwave a damp cloth for about one minute, then test the temperature on the wrist to avoid burning the face. Splashing the face with cold water after shaving closes the skin pores, but avoid using water only or alcohol-based after-shaves, which can dry out skin. Aloe vera is wonderful as a post-shave moisturizer.

Proper skin care depends on using products specifically designed to treat your skin type, and using them daily to reap the benefits of the products. Most men have used shaving creams, sun cream and after shave for years to prevent irritation as well as for the fragrance. However, recently the market has expanded in correlation to the demand for more specific products to take care of the face and body. Companies have realized the size of this demand and have created a market for male products and cosmetics. This reflects in not only the products available but also the marketing campaigns that are used to make the consumer aware. Companies use celebrities, packaging and catchy slogans to entice male consumers. For example the skin care products will have male orientated names and dark packaging as well as a fresh fragrance. The companies that are developing these products are not only new ones who have capitalized on a niche in the market but well established brands for example Nivea, Clinique, Gillette and Adidas to name but a few.

Men’s skin care products available include moisturizing creams, cleansers, face and body wash, scrubs, exfoliants and night renewal cream. These products are targeted at men of all ages and skin types. Ingredients used in male skin care products can include a variety of natural ingredients for example sea salt, coconut, aloe vera and even beer. Each ingredient is researched and developed for different uses and different types of skin. Products can range in price, depending on the ingredients used and brand name, it is therefore advisable to research into the best product or products suitable for the skin type required.

Individuals with oily skin and acne prone skin tend to run from moisture or oils applied topically to the skin. The use of the correct oils for oily and acne prone skins can be very helpful. Essential oils like lavender, sage, mint and tea tree are naturally antiseptic, active and help heal the skin. Oils mimic our own sebum and will send signals to the skin to even out the over production. Look for products that are non-comdeogenic, the products in which the ingredients will not clog the pores. Normal to dry skins should tone with non-alcohol toners, which are over-drying. Moisturize according to the needs of the skin. Mature skin types obviously needing more hydration especially around areas prone to wrinkling like the eyes and mouth. Antioxidants A,C and E, and fish oils are highly beneficial to the skin's elasticity and protection from the sun. Sensitive Skin Types should use hypoallergenic, fragrance-free products. Avoid chemical sunscreens that release free radicals into the skin. Mild organic ingredients with an aloe vera base tend to work the best. Essential Oils also are very effective in the treatment of sensitive skins such as Lavender, chamomile,

Everyday elements such as the sun and wind can dry your skin to the point that it hurts. To prevent this, wear sunscreen when you plan to be outdoors for an extended period of time. An SPF factor of 15 should suffice. Pick a sunscreen that has aloe and moisturizers in it. After being in the sun, apply a facial moisturizer that contains vitamin E. You can also apply this any time your face feels dry for all skin types. Sunscreen is one of the most important steps in preventing cancer and premature age.

Although the skin is a man's first defense, it is the last in line to receive nutrients carried by the blood. It therefore receives vitamins and minerals in small quantities. For the skin to play its role as a vital organ effectively, dermatologists recommend using a daily hydrating moisturizer and a well-balanced supply of targeted vitamins and minerals specially adapted to meet the needs of a man's skin.

Lastly, eating a balanced diet and staying active are obviously part of the equation. Double up on the fruits and vegetables, which often contain many anti-oxidants that can retard skin damage. Take a multi-vitamin that is rich in anti-oxidants and vitamin E. Do your best to avoid greasy, fried food. Substitute olive oil in place of butter when you cook. It is healthier and, as some claim, will allow your skin to retain its elasticity longer.

Exercise will do more than simply get your heart rate going. It will clear your pores, increase your metabolism, and generally make you feel better about yourself. Sweating allows your inner body to cleanse itself.

Perhaps the easiest and best way to help your skin is to drink plenty of water on a day-today basis. The majority of your body's cells are made of water, and it only makes sense to keep hydrated. Drink at least 64 ounces of water per day. Increase your intake if you are a drinker of beverages that dehydrate you, such as coffee, soda, and alcohol. If you do drink alcohol excessively, do your best to limit your intake, as the consequences will manifest themselves in more than just bad-looking skin.

Skin care for men is remarkably similar to that for women. You will want to clean your skin every day, apply toner and moisturize your skin. To begin with, men should realize that proper skin care need not take copious amounts of time. A few minutes a day is all that is necessary.

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