 What's the
first thing people notice about you? It's your face. Healthy skin is
the most important element of a great looking face. It is not only easy
to achieve; it is a critical thing you can do for yourself. Put your
best face forward. While most men would rather not admit it, appearance is very important to them- here are some basic tips and guidelines to encourage healthier skin. It's simple…
#1 Keep it clean.
Men have approximately
15% oilier skin and significantly larger pores than women do.
Basically, this means you get dirtier. It is very important; no matter
what skin type you have, to clean your face every day. Deep cleansing
is important. It keeps pores clear, skin healthy and you looking good.
Cleansing products should be as chemical-free as possible.
Deodorant soaps shouldn't be used on your face. They cleanse with harsh
ingredients and leave a detergent film behind. This may irritate your
skin and will clog your pores. Go natural.
A good scrub is essential for healthy clean skin. It will remove
dead cells and smooth the surface of your face. The scrub should be
strong without being damaging. Stay away from scrubs that contain rough
elements like ground bits of nut or seed extracts. They will tear and
damage the skin. A good scrub will invigorate you, not hurt you.
Moisturizing is a necessity. Again, the product with the least
amount of chemical additives is the best. Always use a light
moisturizer on your face after cleansing and shaving and don't forget
your neck!
For an intensive moisture treatment use pure vitamin E, or aloe
vera oil. It is available in liquid form, or just break open a capsule
and apply the oil directly to the skin. This is a great under eye
treatment. Remember it is very important to moisturize this sensitive
area of the face. It is one of the first places to show age because the
under eye skin secretes no necessary oils on its own.
#2 Keep it toned.
Because men are
outside more than women are, environmental debris and pollutants are
more a factor to their skin's health. Toning helps keep the skin clear
and firm.
As skin ages, it needs to work harder to maintain its elasticity.
Astringents and toners with glycolic or alpha hydroxy acids work the
best for toning the face. These acids actually can reduce the pore
size, and help avoid ingrown hairs. They are aggressive and have quick
results. Remember to look for a product that is not photosensitive
(sensitive to light).
#3 Treat your skin.
Depending on your
skin type (oily, dry or combination) and the time of year, there are
different products that treat and enhance your skin. Different
treatments will have very different results. It is important to know
your skin's needs.
All types of skin need to be exfoliated. This is the removal of
dead skin cells that form daily. This is an essential part of skin
treatment.
After shaving, you need to moisturize with a product that has
absolutely no alcohol in it. Avoid heavy fragrant after-shave products
too, as they can irritate the skin.
Skin that is too shiny doesn't look healthy, just greasy. Blot the
excess oils away. Blotting papers or a light powder that will give you
a more natural finish, are both good options to try.
Don't forget about your lips. Find a balm that has an SPF of at
least 15 in it. Peppermint oil has a nice feel and keeps the lips
looking luscious.
#4 Protect your skin.
Healthy skin is
young looking skin. There are preventative techniques that can promote
the best skin possible and keep it looking its best longer. Remember
that your skin is a mirror of your overall body health.
Here are the key techniques:
- Avoid over exposure to the sun.
Sun damage leads to hyperpigmentation (brown spots) which can develop
into serious skin disease. Excessive exposure can also exaggerate and
thicken fine lines. Use an SPF 15 or higher on all exposed skin,
especially on your face.
- Stay in shape.
Exercise promotes capillary functioning which can decrease premature
aging. It also increases oxygen to the tissues which keeps skin looking
young.
- Eat right.
Keep vitamins such as C and E in your diet regimen.
- Everything in moderation.
Too much of anything is never a good idea. Stay away from excessive
alcohol, smoking, fatigue and stress. Not only can these factors lead
to premature aging; they also decrease facial circulation making you
look older.
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