men’s skincare
Step by step
Written in collaboration with skincare therapist Rebecca
Interest among men in caring for their facial skin has increased significantly in recent years, along with greater awareness of skincare’s importance for both wellbeing and the prevention of visible signs of ageing. Still, many find skincare confusing and overwhelming. Cleansing, moisturising, exfoliating – how do you do it, and what should you use? And then there’s skin type. Does it really matter?
Here’s a practical guide – step by step.
Summary
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Start by identifying your skin type to choose the right products and build an effective skincare routine.
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Daily cleansing morning and evening removes dirt and excess oil while preparing the skin for care.
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Exfoliation and moisturising strengthen the skin barrier, reduce issues and promote healthier skin.
Skincare can feel overwhelming, and the range of products on the market is often as confusing as it is extensive. However, it’s important to remember that many of the foundations of healthy skin come from within, and that diet, stress levels and sleep quality all play a role in overall skin health.
That said, there are elements in your daily routine where the right products can make a noticeable difference, both short and long term. The first step is to identify your skin type. Is it normal, oily, dry, combination, sensitive, or do you have what is often referred to as mature skin, with lines and signs of ageing? Using this as a starting point makes it easier to find the right products and create your own personalised skincare routine. It’s not as complicated as it may seem. (Note: If you suffer from serious medical skin conditions, always consult a doctor or certified skincare specialist.)
The most common skin types can be summarised as follows:
- Normal skin: Elastic and clear, neither flaky, oily nor sensitive. With this skin type, you can generally use standard products not designed for a specific concern.
- Oily skin: Visible pores and a shiny surface with oily areas, particularly on the forehead and nose. Blackheads or spots are common. This skin type is frequent during adolescence.
- Dry skin: Dull skin with a tendency to crack or flake. Often feels tight, especially after cleansing, and is easily irritated. May increase the risk of eczema and rashes.
- Combination skin: Oily skin on the forehead, chin and nose, with drier skin on the cheeks. These areas are collectively known as the T-zone. Combination skin can be more complex, as different areas may require different products.
- Sensitive skin: Characterised by a tendency toward irritation, redness, itching and, in severe cases, breakouts. It’s important to choose products specifically formulated for sensitive skin.
- Mature skin: As we age, the skin loses elasticity and moisture. Lines and wrinkles appear, and the complexion may become dull and dry. Anti-age products and extra hydration are recommended, along with targeted eye care.
Read more about different skin types and how to identify yours:
Let’s move on to the different steps in your skincare routine:
facial cleansing
- The first step in skincare is to cleanse the face. Wet your face with lukewarm water or cleanse while showering.
- Massage face and neck morning and evening with a mild facial cleanser or gel, using gentle motions. Many soaps and body washes can be drying or too harsh for facial skin. Only use products specifically designed for the face.
- Rinse with lukewarm water and gently pat the face dry with a towel, leaving the skin slightly damp.
Product suggestions:
Normal skin: Gents Skin Cleanser, Truefitt & Hill Daily Facial Cleanser, Dermaceutic Advanced Cleanser All-In-One Cleanser Foam
Oily skin: Raw Naturals Fresh Facial Cleanser
Dry skin: Gents Skin Cleanser
Combination skin: Gents Skin Cleanser, Truefitt & Hill Daily Facial Cleanser
Sensitive skin: Gents Skin Cleanser, Recipe For Men Ultra Sensitive Facial Cleanser, Bulldog Sensitive Face Wash
Mature skin: Gents Skin Cleanser, Dermaceutic Advanced Cleanser All-In-One Cleanser Foam
