4 Essential Skin Care Tips for Men

Despite what most skin-related ad campaigns might indicate, men have skin, too! While the rugged and handsome among us may not want to admit to needing more than soap-n-water, men's skin has unique needs and should be treated as such. Check out these quick skin care tips that will turn heads.

Tip #1 - Wash Your Face. This seems pretty basic, but it's probably the most critical element when it comes to keeping your skin healthy. Men have an average 15% more oil in their skin than women do, so if skin isn't cleaned regularly that oil can build up and cause the skin to look dull, and even cause acne. When you wash your face, choose an unscented cleanser that is suited to your skin type. Avoid extremes in temperature; rinse your face with lukewarm water to avoid drying it out. Pat dry, and repeat twice a day.

Tip #2 - Know Your Skin Type. Yes, you have a skin type! Learning what it is is an important part of choosing the best products for your skin. Make sure your cleanser, toner, aftershave, and moisturizer all reflect whether your skin is dry, oily, combination, sentitive, etc. Getting the right tools will help your get the best results.

Tip #3 - Watch That Razor. You probably learned how to shave as a teen, but your routine might need an update if you end up with red bumps instead of smooth skin after a shave. Take your time (hurrying usually equals nicks and cuts), replace your razor frequently, and use a shaving cream or gel and aftershave forumalted to your skin type. Also consider whether you can skip a day or two between shaving, especially over the weekend--this will give your skin a break and make it healthier when you do shave again.

Tip #4 - Tone and Moisturize. Toners are typically liquid products you sweep over your face after cleansing; they firm the skin and tighten pores for a smooth look. Moisturizing is a significant aspect of skin health--every time you wash your face you're stripping it of essential oils and nutrients, so replacing the 'good' that you removed is important. Consider choosing a moisturizer that contains sunscreen--there's nothing rugged about melanoma, and sun damage can also lead to wrinkles and discoloration.

Remember, skin care is important for everyone. If you're not happy with your skin's condition, think about visiting a skin care specialist for a rejuvenative treatment like a chemical peel, microdermabrasion, or even just a facial massage. Your skin will thank you!

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