Skin matters are typically associated with women. Whether it’s skincare or makeup, the products, the advice, and the ads are all geared toward girls and women. But skin is the biggest organ in the human body. It should be a priority for everyone. Clear, unblemished skin isn’t reserved for models, actors or clients of a makeup artist. Men can experience all sorts of skin problems as well. If you’re interested in getting started with skincare, you’re in the right place. Here are the essentials of a healthy routine:
Cleanser
Using your body soap on your face may save you time and money. But it can actually do more damage in the long run. Dermatologist Rachel Nazarian says that using regular body soap on your face can cause dryness and irritation. It may be fine in the beginning but after a while, it can result in wrinkles, acne, and enlarged pores. To prevent any problems in the future, it’s best to get a quality cleanser as soon as possible.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), it’s best to get a cleanser that doesn’t contain any alcohol. Gentle cleansers are ideal because they won’t strip your skin of any natural oils. If you have sensitive skin, it’s best to avoid cleansers with fragrances. It might irritate your skin.
Once you have a good cleanser, make sure you’re washing your face properly. Dermatologists recommend using lukewarm water to dampen your face. Then, form a lather on your palms before rubbing it on your face in a circular motion.
If you have acne, you might chalk it up to dirty skin. But it’s important not to overdo it. This is one of the instances where less is more. For some people, washing their face once a day has translated to great results. The common advice is to wash twice a day or only after excessive sweating.
Moisturizer
It’s a common misconception that only people with dry skin need moisturizer. But experts say that moisturizers are necessary for people with oily skin as well. Since people with oily skin type are prone to acne, you may be using topicals to treat it. Such products typically contain powerful ingredients like benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid. These chemicals help skin by speeding up the skin’s exfoliation. While they work to get rid of pimples and dark marks, they also have downsides. They can cause dryness and irritation.
To counter the side effects, you should use the right type of moisturizer.
The AAD recommends using a moisturizer that does not contain any oil or will clog your pores. There are plenty of products that label themselves as non-comedogenic. But it’s important to remember that it’s not regulated. According to the Food and Drug Administration, there are no regulations regarding non-comedogenic labels. Instead, beyond the labels, you should also look at the ingredients list. Substances like isopropyl myristate can clog pores if the concentration is high enough. Remember that the order in the list is based on the quantity. The nearer an ingredient is placed in the start of the list, the higher the amount is.
Sunscreen
When you see ads for sunscreens and sunblock, they usually feature women on the beach. But sun-damaged skin can happen to anyone and at any time. SPF is not only for beach days or for women. The sun can harm your skin even if you’re at work.
The lack of sun protection can also worsen your current skin issues. For example, if you have dark spots, sun exposure can just make it worse. Especially if you use products with glycolic acid. The acid is usually used to treat dark spots because it hastens cell turnover. The downside is that it can make your skin more sensitive to the sun.
To select the right sunscreen for you, consider a few factors. First, see if it’s a broad-spectrum sunscreen. It means that it protects your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. The former can age your skin prematurely while the latter can burn it.
The second factor to consider is the SPF value. The AAD advises people to use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. This means that it can block at least 97% of UVB rays.
You should also remember to re-apply your sunscreen after spending time outdoors. Some products offer water resistance while others don’t. Make sure to follow the instructions indicated on the product’s label.
You don’t need to follow a complicated 12-step routine to have healthy skin. With the right products and techniques, your skin can look and feel good. But if you experience any problems, it’s always best to consult a dermatologist.
