Father’s Day is just around the corner and sometimes, finding the perfect gift can be challenging. You can only buy so many bottles of cologne, books, fishing rods, and socks over the years before the joy of gift giving ends up becoming an afternoon of procrastination, wandering around a department store in search of a great gift. This year, I have something different in mind. Having struggled with some issues of my own when it comes to skincare, I realized men should also care for their skin as well; which is why I am giving the gift of healthy skin this year!
We Are Not the Same – Who Knew!
Men’s skin differs from a woman’s skin overall quite dramatically. Men typically have more collagen and elastin, making their skin thicker however men do tend to have larger pores, which causes their pores to be more susceptible to clogging and ingrown hairs. Men also tend to have dryer skin due to shaving, the use of aftershave, various other harsh products they are known to use when washing their face, and the natural elements such as the sun and environmental pollutants they are exposed to when working outdoors or in an industrial setting. Because men have more collagen and elastin in their skin, the signs of aging will generally appear later in life although lower testosterone does dry the skin and contribute to the signs of aging as well.
Selecting the Right Products
Men tend to shy away from using skincare products because let’s be honest; they are heavily geared and marketed towards women. Several products exist that are specifically designed for men however the most important thing to consider when purchasing products are the ingredients. Look for natural, plant derived ingredients that you can pronounce and avoid those that contain perfumes and sulfites. Selecting the right skincare product also depends on your skin type. If you have oily skin, a product that is geared towards dryness is not a good choice for you because you will be adding too much moisture into the skin. Someone that has allergies or deals with sensitive skin will want to make sure the products they use are specifically formulated for sensitive skin types, and are dermatologically tested to be allergen-free. A consultation with an aesthetician, or speaking with a consultant from a major department store brand is a great way to find expert advice and essentially a product that is formulated for your skin type.
It Doesn’t Need to Be Complicated
When you have settled on a product to use, you can incorporate skincare into your daily routine quite easily. Here are some quick tips and advice to consider:
• Wash your face and neck gently with your hands or a soft pad. If you shower daily, wait a few minutes into your shower before washing your face to allow the steam to open your pores. When finished, pat your skin dry with a soft towel before applying toner and moisturizer.
• Select a moisturizer that is specifically formulated for your skin type. Choosing the right type of moisturizer is important, because each formulation will control the amount of moisture that penetrates your skin. Men with dry skin require moisturizers that target dryness but someone with oily skin will require a moisturizer that controls excess oil.
• Use sunscreen every day! According to The Canadian Cancer Society, skin cancer is the most common cancer in Canada; 1 in 59 Canadian men will develop melanoma in his lifetime – 1 in 240 will die from it. Using sunscreen on its own or selecting a moisturizer that contains an SPF will protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Select an SPF of 30 or higher for the best protection. Also, look for sunscreens that are formulated specifically for the face because generic sunscreens contain excess oils and can clog your pores and irritate your skin.
• Keep your skin hydrated by drinking 8-10 glasses of water every day. Water will not only quenches your thirst, it hydrates your skin from the inside out.
• Consider laser hair removal to prevent ingrown hairs. Ingrown hairs develop because a close shave can cause the hair follicle to inadvertently regrow under the skin, resulting in a painful, red bump that can also become infected. Laser hair removal targets and destroys the hair follicle directly, inhibiting hair growth. Laser hair removal is also wonderful for defining the lines of your facial hair for those that prefer to have a beard, moustache, or goatee.
Change things up this year by giving the gift skincare to the men in your life!
