Fresh and Fit: A guide to skincare for men
Many men don’t prioritize skincare due to misconceptions that it’s unnecessary or too time-consuming. It’s common to hear that the old soap and water is enough or that skincare is something for women. However, men’s skin, being thicker and oilier, is prone to clogged pores, blemishes, and premature aging. Proper skin care can prevent these issues, improve skin texture, and provide protection against environmental damage. Adopting a skincare routine promotes healthier, more resilient skin, enhancing overall appearance and confidence plus, gives you an essential moment of self-care time each day.
Step 1: Exfoliate Regularly
Men's skincare is essential due to their skin's unique characteristics. Biologically, male skin is 25% thicker than females, which can lead to thicker texture, clogged pores, and fine lines for some. Regular (gentle) exfoliation helps maintain an even skin texture by sloughing off dead skin cells before they build up. An easy way to do this is to incorporate a gently exfoliating cleanser, like the Image Illuma Cleanser to have an all in one product for morning and night or to mix a scrub like Aspect’s Illuminating Polish into your face wash one to two times a week. Regularly exfoliating also helps to prevent ingrown hairs by removing debris that blocks the hair follicle - just make sure you don’t exfoliate right after shaving and it can make the skin more sensitive!
After a workout, washing off sweat is important to prevent clogged pores, a dull complexion and breakouts. Without proper cleansing, sweat and dirt can accumulate, leading to skin issues. For best practice, keep a small bottle of cleanser in your gym bag so you never forget to clean up after your workout.
Step 2: Balance Oil Production
Hormonal differences cause increased oil production, resulting in larger looking pores and increased chance of blemishes. Oiliness can be controlled by ingredients such as Niacinemide (Vitamin B3) in the form of a serum, which absorbs quickly into the skin and delivers a high potency of ingredients and is applied between cleanser and moisturiser. Aspect’s B17 is perfect for normal to oily skin and Image’s Ormedic Balancing Antioxidant Serum is great for those who experience irritation and redness.
Step 3: Hydrate for Better Shaving and Facial Hair
Facial hair requires special care; keeping the skin hydrated minimizes razor burn, bumps and ingrown hairs by making sure the skin is supple and the hair can come out of the follicle easily. Even oily skin can benefit from a lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer like Image’s Mattifying Moisturiser, or Aspect’s Sheer Hydration. Moisturising also helps keep your skin soft and minimizes fine lines.
Step 4: Stay protected
Men naturally produce more collagen (the protein that keeps your skin looking young), providing an age-defying advantage, but constant exposure to environmental stressors can break it down. Using broad-spectrum SPF protects against wrinkles, dark spots, and sun damage, keeping you looking fresh and fit into your late years. Although we’ve all been taught to slip, slop, slap when we’re at the beach, UVA radiation is consistent all year around so sunscreen needs to be too. Incorporating it into your daily routine by keeping it next to your toothbrush is a good reminder to stay protected 365 days a year, not only to prevent aging, but skin cancer too. Image’s Prevention Daily Matte Moisturiser is a great option as it’s oil free, and doesn’t free greasy.
Incorporating these skincare steps—exfoliation, oil-balancing serums, hydration, and sun protection—ensures healthier, clearer skin and guards against environmental damage. Proper skincare is not just a woman's domain; it’s vital for men to maintain their skin's health and appearance.
For tailored advice on how you can take care of your skin, start your skin journey today with Open House Skin! Book in a complimentary in-person or online consultation, or Housewarming Facial here.
