Discover the secrets to timeless skin with this practical guide specifically tailored for men.
Men are far more likely than women to neglect proper skincare.
Recent data compiled by CivicScience shows that just 29 percent of men have an actual skincare routine, and on top of that, only 11 percent engage in a daily skincare regimen. This same survey notes that roughly 60 percent of men report having no interest in skincare — which includes using sunscreen — yet men are 40 percent more likely than women to develop skin cancer, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Compounding the issue, you begin to lose collagen, a protein responsible for skin elasticity, strength, and structure, between 18 and 29 years old. By age 40, you may lose roughly 1 percent of your body’s collagen each year, research shows.
So why do a large percentage of men still choose not to tend to their skin? Men are less likely to feel comfortable with skincare products, particularly knowing which products to use and when, according to the CivicScience data. And those who do make it a point to care for their skin tend to focus solely on issues such as under-eye circles, wrinkles, and acne, per a new report by Finnish beauty technology company Revieve.
For some men, it can be daunting just knowing how to begin a skincare journey. But with these tips, caring for your complexion is anything but complicated.
Use Products for Your Skin Type
Before heading to the store for products, you’ll want to first determine your skin type, says ennifer Harvey, an esthetician and spa area manager at Equinox.. “It's important to identify your skin type to choose the right products and routine best for you,” Harvey notes. “If you are not sure, then see a skin-care professional.”
In general, sensitive skin may sting or burn when you apply a product; dry skin may feel itchy, flaky, or rough; oily skin may look oily or greasy; combination skin is oily in some spots and dry in others; and normal skin is clear and has no sensitivities, according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD). When stocking up on cleansers, serums, and exfoliants, look for products designed for your skin type.
Follow a Morning Skincare Routine
“At the very least, every male should cleanse, use vitamin C serum, moisturize, and SPF in that order in the a.m.,” says Harvey. The cleanser will help remove dead skin cells, dirt, and debris, and the antioxidant-rich serum (such as one from Ultraceuticals, Eminence, or Epicutis) will help fend off free radicals, she explains. (Free radicals are highly reactive chemicals that can damage the major components of cells.)
During the cleansing process, you’ll strip the skin of sebum, an oily substance that prevents your skin from drying out, says Harvey. That’s why following up with a moisturizer is key.
Finally, top off your skin with sunscreen, Harvey advises. This step helps prevent harmful sun damage that can lead to wrinkles, age spots, and skin cancer, according to the AAD.
Stick with a Nighttime Skincare Routine
Nighttime is particularly pivotal when it comes to the skin. Just like your morning regimen, your bedtime skincare routine should kick off with a cleanser. Then, follow up with an exfoliant containing AHA, BHA, or PHA, Harvey recommends.
“As we age, our cell turnover rate slows down, meaning we have old cells we need to remove,” she explains. “When we exfoliate, we remove those old cells and jumpstart the anti-aging process, giving us more collagen and elastin, making the skin smoother and fresher.” Apply your exfoliant daily or, if you’re using a stronger treatment, weekly — just make sure to skip this step right after a shave, she suggests.
Finally, follow up with a moisturizer to rehydrate the skin, Harvey advises. “Our skin, just like our body, goes through a renewal process overnight, and it's important to give it the best tools to help regenerate,” says Harvey.
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Address Your Specific Concerns
To address some of the more specific skincare concerns such as acne, aging, or sensitivity, Harvey suggests “a daily serum or a once-a-week mask that helps to balance out the skin condition. For acne, [try] a salicylic serum or clay mask. Aging needs antioxidants like vitamin C and SPF to protect and retinol to [speed up cell turnover]. And sensitive skin needs calming serums like [the] new R.E.D. from Ultraceuticals.” For in-depth treatments, consider booking a once-monthly appointment at the Equinox Spa.
Stay Consistent
Consistency with your daily routine — or luxury facials and chemical peels if you’re going all in — is key when it comes to achieving your skin goals. “Think of it like a ladder with your skincare goal at the top,” says Harvey. “You must come in regularly to keep stepping up the ladder toward your goal. If you don't use your skincare daily and come in at least every six weeks, you'll always fail on your first step, never reaching your goals. You can't work out once to get a perfect body...”
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
It’s also crucial to address your skin from the inside out, taking diet and lifestyle into consideration. “The skin is our largest organ and can often show symptoms of improper diet and health,” says Harvey. “Drink lots of water, eat fruits and veggies that have high water content, and engage in regular exercise to keep oxygen and water levels high.”
That said, your lifestyle is not the be-all and end-all for your complexion. “At the same time, you could have the healthiest diet and exercise and still have problems due to hormones or environmental factors, which is why it's important to maintain a twice-a-day regime with your at-home products — in addition to your monthly care treatments from a skin-care professional,” Harvey adds.
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If you’re overwhelmed at the mere thought of forming a skincare routine, just start with the basics and progress from there; something is better than nothing. You will quickly learn which practices and products work best for you and be well on your way to attaining healthier-looking skin.