Skincare is not gender-specific but rather for anyone who wishes to take care of their skin, and everyone should do so. While men may not have traditionally embraced skin care routines as widely as women, they are increasingly becoming adept at wanting to look and feel their best. One aspect to consider is skin type: compared to women, men’s skin is thicker, has more sebaceous glands, and tends to be oilier. Therefore, in order for someone to adhere to a treatment, it is important to consider these particular characteristics, making it easier to accept the recommendations of a dermatologist.
Skincare routine depending on the skin type
People say the face is the mirror of the soul, and indeed, the first impression we give to the world can be enhanced if we know how to accentuate our strengths and address our less flattering areas. Skin plays a crucial role in this, as it’s essential for maintaining a well-groomed, even and harmonious facial appearance. Therefore, it’s of utmost importance to dedicate time and attention to caring for this vital organ of our human body.
Every skin is unique, and it’s important to tailor our facial routine to the specific needs of our skin type, taking into account its individual characteristics. The most common classification identifies three main skin types: dry, oily, and combination. However, it’s important to remember that skin type can change over time, as factors like age also play a significant role in the health of our epidermis.
One notable trend in men’s skincare is the growing popularity of skincare kits tailored specifically for men. These kits offer a convenient solution for those looking to streamline their skincare routine without the guesswork. Whether it’s a basic starter kit or a comprehensive regimen, skincare kits for men provide everything needed to cleanse, nourish, and protect the skin effectively.
A proper facial skincare routine should consist of four essential steps, each requiring specific products: cleansing, eye contour care, serum application, and finally, hydration.
Cleansing
The importance of cleansing in facial care is not limited to gender; both men and women are exposed to pollutants like cigarette smoke, car exhaust fumes, and other agents that harm the skin. Additionally, men often have thicker and oilier skin than women, leading to excess oil that can clog pores. Therefore, it’s crucial for them to use a suitable cleanser for their skin type.
An appropriate cleanser will effectively remove impurities and debris from the pores, avoiding the dryness that bar soap can cause. Men should opt for a liquid cleanser formulated for their skin type, whether oily, dry or normal.
Eye Contour
The delicate periocular area can benefit from a specific product suitable for all skin types.
Serum
While serum may seem like an optional step in a skincare routine for men, it can be particularly beneficial for certain skin types, such as oily and combination skin.
Moisturizer
Regarding hydration, a moisturizing cream is recommended to refresh the skin, soothing with ingredients like ginseng and niacinamide, and providing comfort for daily use. The inclusion of niacinamide in skincare routine is beneficial due to its moisturizing, anti-inflammatory and sebum-regulating properties.
It’s essential to moisturize the skin daily after cleansing to maintain elasticity and prevent dryness. Choose a moisturizer suitable for your skin type: dense for dry skin, gel or tonic for oily skin, lightweight lotion for normal skin, and find a balance between light and heavy creams for combination skin.
Sunscreen
The use of sunscreen is essential but often overlooked. Apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher on your face and neck to reduce sun damage, ensuring application 20 minutes before going out for better absorption.
Nightly Skincare Routine for Men Based on Skin Type
The skincare routine for men will vary depending on several factors: skin type, climate in the area, season of the year, age, and, of course, the aspects to improve.
Dry Skin
- Cleansing: Use a gentle, moisturizing soap or micellar water according to your preference. For allergic or atopic skin, micellar water with a direct disc can be an excellent choice.
- Eye Contour: Although it may not seem necessary for young men aged 25, starting to use an anti-aging eye contour is advisable, as this area is prone to wrinkles from repeated facial expressions.
- Serum: While it may cause some tightness in dry skin, if tolerable, apply a serum all over the face, avoiding the eye contour, nose, and mouth.
- Moisturizer: Look for a moisturizer that contains fatty elements to compensate for dryness, as well as anti-pollution, antioxidant, and anti-aging properties. Products containing Alpha Hydroxy Acids (A.H.A) such as retinoic acid, Retinol, Glycolic Acid, Retinaldehyde, vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid are ideal.
- Oily Skin
- Cleansing: Opt for an astringent gel soap or sebum-regulating and mattifying gels to help control oiliness.
- Eye Contour: All eye contour gels and creams are suitable for this skin type.
- Serum: Serums are particularly useful for oily skin. Consider applying astringent ampoules two or three times a week as needed.
- Moisturizer: Choose a lightweight and fluid cream that contains anti-pollution, antioxidant, and anti-aging properties but does not leave a greasy feeling.
- Combination Skin
- Cleansing: Use specific products for combination skin, such as soaps, gels, or foam cleansers that balance the skin.
- Serum: Serums and astringent ampoules are welcomed in this skin type. Use them as needed to control oiliness in the T-zone.
- Moisturizer: Opt for a lightweight emulsion cream containing antioxidants like vitamin C and resveratrol, as well as anti-aging and A.H.A peeling properties tailored to the age and needs of your skin.
A skincare routine for men does not necessarily have to be complex, it can consist of simple steps such as cleansing, moisturizing and sun protection. Take care of your skin and look radiant!