It’s no secret that men are more likely to neglect their skin than women. They may think that they don’t need it or that it may be too much work, but the truth is: skin care matters for everyone. No matter your age, ethnicity or gender, you should take care of your skin. You may not have time for intensive treatment, but there are many easy things you can do to keep your skin healthy. Adding just a few minutes to your daily routine can help make your skin healthier and looking younger.
Shaving
It’s a talk that every son has with his father eventually. Don’t forget the basics. Poor shaving hygiene can lead to rough skin and infection.
- Shave with the grain, not against it. Shaving against the grain pulls the hair before slicing it- this can cause razor burn and skin irritation.
- Don’t shave without shaving cream. Shaving cream protects and lubricates the skin.
- Use a clean, sharp razor. Disposable razors are effective and convenient, but make sure you change them out before they get too dull or dirty. Likewise, if you are using a reusable razor, make sure to change out the blade. Whether you choose disposable or reusable razors, make sure you clean it after each use and keep it in a dry place.
Sunscreen
Sun damage is irreversible and accumulates over time. Long-term sun exposure can cause skin cancer, wrinkles and age spots. You should use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every day to protect your skin and keep it looking younger. Follow the directions on the bottle and don’t forget to reapply.
Moisturize
Everyone knows moisturizer helps keep your skin from drying out, but over time it can also reduce the appearance of wrinkles and skin lines. Moisturizers are not a one-size-fits-all type of solution. When you are choosing a moisturizer, keep your use case in mind. Pick one that targets your level of skin sensitivity and the part of the body you are focusing on. Your face and the skin around your eyes are more sensitive and they need specialized moisturizer. You can even find moisturizer with sunscreen, which can speed up your morning routine.
Healthy Lifestyle
Just about everything you do to your body can affect the health of your skin. As a rule of thumb, if it’s good for the rest of your health, it’s probably good for your skin- proper hydration, exercise and a healthy diet can help your skin look younger. The same goes for things bad for your health. Smoking and alcohol, for example, can cause premature skin aging. Keeping a healthy lifestyle is important for your overall health, including the health of your skin.
Don’t let your skin look older than you are. Men can and should care for their skin. Follow these tips and contact Dr. Friedrichs for a unique skin care plan tailored for each man and his lifestyle.