Top Skincare Tips for Men

Everyone’s skin is different, and using an unsuitable product does more than just not work: it could actually damage your skin. Generally, experts recognize five skin types.

• Sensitive skin is prone to stinging or burning after using certain skin products.
• Typical or “normal” skin is clear and not sensitive.
• Dry skin is rough, often flakes, and feels itchy.
• Oily skin gets oily and shiny quite quickly.
• Combination skin is dry in some regions but oily in others.

Make sure to research brands and their various ingredients. For example, men with acne-prone skin should look for moisturizers or cleansers that are non-comedogenic or oil-free to avoid pore clogging.

Some men may dislike heavily scented skincare products and instead opt for “unscented” options. However, these items often contain masking fragrances that can irritate the skin, so always test any new product on a small area, first.

For many people, shaving is a daily ritual, and like any other skincare, it can dramatically affect skin quality and health. In some cases, multi-blade razors actually work too well. Men prone to razor burns, razor bumps, or ingrown hairs should use a razor with fewer blades and avoid pulling their skin taut while shaving.

Shave in the direction of hair growth and use a moisturizing product to minimize irritation. Rinse the blade after every swipe and change blades regularly. Most men should swap blades after every five to seven shaves, but people with coarse hair may need to change more often. Research suggests that rinsing the skin before shaving and moisturizing it afterward is the most effective way to manage razor bumps.

One of the biggest things a person can do to take care of their skin is to protect it from the sun. Over a lifetime, sun rays can lead to age spots, damage, wrinkles, and skin cancer. According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, men and AMAB individuals are far more likely to develop and die from sun-related skin cancers like melanoma.

Generously apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 whenever spending time outdoors. Clothing like hats, long-sleeved shirts, and long pants also add a certain level of protection. If you're seeking healthy skin, skip the tanning bed.

Technically speaking, dry skin is not a medical concern. However, it can contribute to itchiness or flaking that cause people to scratch and damage their skin. It can also disrupt the skin’s ability to protect the underlying tissues from dryness, chemicals, infection, and stress.

Moisturizing helps hydrate and limits how much moisture can escape, protecting the skin and improving its ability to perform its basic functions. Additionally, many moisturizers contain other products that help actively fight wrinkles and other cosmetic skin concerns. Moisturizing daily, especially after showering or shaving, can massively benefit skin health.

Many men like to take hot showers to help them relax or wake them up. However, research indicates that hot water and long bathing times remove more oils from the skin, leaving it dry and unhealthy.

Turn the water temp down and try to spend less time under the spray. If this is not possible, use moisturizers shortly after getting out of the shower to keep the skin healthy and hydrated.

Nearly every skin routine recommends starting with washing the face with lukewarm water. This helps remove sweat, extra oil, as well as dirt and grime to ensure skincare products work properly.

Because an unclean face contributes to clogged pores and acne, face washing without using any other products is beneficial in its own right. However, washing too frequently may remove necessary and healthy oils from the skin, leading to dry skin. Try to limit face washing to twice a day or after a period of sweating, such as exercise or working outdoors.

It does not matter how many face creams a person uses if their diet is poor. Men who want to take care of their skin should recognize that a healthy diet is a key part of skincare.

Eat plenty of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins. Some studies indicate that diets rich in fish oil and low in processed carbohydrates promote younger-looking skin. Additionally, drinking plenty of water will keep skin looking youthful.

Stress can harm the body in multiple ways, and some of its most visible effects involve the skin. According to some research, stress can make the skin more sensitive and increase the risk of acne breakouts.

Stress can also negatively impact sleep and diet, both of which are integral to healthy skin.

In the United States, more men than women smoke tobacco in some form. Smoking narrows the blood vessels in the outer layers of the skin. This decreases blood flow, makes the skin paler, and deprives the skin of the oxygen and nutrients it needs.

Smoking also damages elastin and collagen, which are responsible for skin’s strength and elasticity. As a result, common facial motions contribute to wrinkles.