For a long time, whenever we speak of skincare, we put all the limelight on women. The narrative around skincare and its importance is changing at warp speed. More and more brands are now stepping forward and encouraging men to take good care of their skin health. As a result of this, the market can see a plethora of products on the shelves. But where to start? To clear all doubts around this realm, Vidhi Arya from Professional Beauty India sought help from Dr Vijaya Salunkhe, a Business Consultant in beauty and wellness and she gave us the perfect skincare guide for men.
Dr Vijaya Salunkhe, a derm Cosmetologist with over 15 years of experience in Beauty Space explains how men’s skincare differs from that of women. She also throws light on how men who have been aloof from the concept can start with simple yet effective steps. Dr Salunke says, “Skin care is important for groomsmen not only for the immediate benefits of enhanced appearance and confidence but also for long-term health and well-being.” So gentlemen, read ahead and delve deeper into what Dr Salunke has to share.
The basics of skincare for men
Skincare can vary between men and women due to differences in skin physiology, hormone levels, and grooming habits. While the basic principles of skincare are similar for both genders, there are some distinctions. A few of these distinctions arise due to hormonal differences, oil production, grooming products used, lifestyle factors exposing them to different environments, and most important of all shaving factors. These influence the approach to skincare routines.
Despite these differences, It’s important to note that there is a growing trend toward gender-neutral or unisex skincare products. Many basic skincare principles, such as cleansing, moisturising, and sun protection, apply to both men and women. The key is to choose products that address individual skin concerns, regardless of gender.
The ultimate skincare guide for men
Establishing a basic skincare routine is a great first step for men who are new to skincare. Here’s a simple and effective routine that can be easily incorporated into daily life:
- Cleansing:
Start with a gentle facial cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and impurities from the skin. Cleansing is important, especially if you have oily skin or if you’ve been exposed to environmental pollutants.
- Exfoliation (2-3 times a week):
Use an exfoliating scrub or a chemical exfoliant to remove dead skin cells and promote skin renewal. This step helps to improve skin texture and can prevent ingrown hairs, especially if you shave regularly.
- Moisturising:
Apply a moisturizer to hydrate and nourish the skin. This step is crucial for maintaining skin health, regardless of your skin type. If you have oily skin, opt for a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer.
- Sunscreen:
The most important of all to not only prevent from sun from getting tanned but also to prevent skin burns, it also delays signs of ageing
- Set a shaving routine
To start with, use a pre-shave oil to soften the beard and prepare the skin. Then you apply a quality shaving cream or gel. Finally, after shaving, apply an alcohol-free aftershave or a soothing moisturizer to prevent irritation.
Final thoughts
The basic skincare routine can serve as a foundation for healthy skin for most men. However, there is no one-size-fits-all approach, and individual skin concerns may require professional attention. Regular check-ups with a dermatologist and adjustments to your routine based on your skin’s needs can contribute to optimal skin care.