My male clientele has grown steadily over the past decade, from 10 per cent to more like 35 per cent. The idea that men don’t have as many skin concerns as women is a myth: men have approximately 20 per cent thicker skin than women, and they produce more sebum. Added to this, heightened levels of the stress hormones cortisol and adrenaline tend to lead to clogged pores, which can cause blackheads and acne.
In short, men tend to have more oil problems. Building a skin routine is no different to getting enough sleep, eating healthily, staying hydrated and exercising. Doing so is an investment in both skin health and self-confidence. And regardless of whether you are 25 or 75, the baseline skincare regimen should remain the same. Here are some pointers for how to keep it simple.
Below is an excerpt from my Financial Times HTSI column on mens´ skincare. CLICK TO READ FULL COLUMN
WHY IS CLEANSING SO IMPORTANT?
Soap can be very astringent on facial skin, so why not try a multitasking cleanser? Malin+Goetz Foaming Cream is easy, speedy and can be used every day. Nourishing prebiotics, jojoba milk and oil and vitamin E soften, moisturise and soothe, while glycerin and sodium promise to lock in moisture.
Orveda’s Deep Cleansing Botanical & Enzymatic Oil dissolves accumulated oils and pollutants on the skin’s surface with its blend of bio-fermented kombucha black tea; alpha-glucan oligosaccharide, a natural prebiotic that stabilises the skin’s microbiome; and a marine enzyme that heals the skin’s moisture barrier. Apply at the end of the day using a kabuki brush.
CREATE A LAYER OF PROTECTION AND COMFORT
Avoid carpet-bombing your face with an astringent aftershave and opt for a quick spritz of SkinCeuticals Phyto Corrective Essence Mist, a supercharged cocktail of antioxidant-rich botanical extracts and hydrating hyaluronic acid and glycerin.
That tight feeling after a shave, workout or a cleanse isn’t healthy. It’s a sign that your skin’s barrier has been stripped of its natural oils and is crying out for moisture. A lightweight moisturiser is all you need, creating a seal to reduce water loss and ensure the skin stays supple and nourished.
Clarins Super Moisture Gel is a non-greasy, cooling moisturiser that is its perfect post-workout companion.
ADD A GADGET TO MULTITASK
An abundance of skin devices have emerged to recharge both skin and mind. Multitask by applying Shiseido Total Revitalizer Eye cream and wearing Therabody SmartGoggles, whose heat vibrations massage the face.
Massage causes a surge in the “happy hormones” dopamine, serotonin and oxytocin, which help the body cope with stress and improve memory, focus, and motivation.
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Each month in my ASK ADEELA column in Financial Times How to Spend It - I cover a skincare topic I am usually asked about the most. Drawing from my experience as a practicing Facialist I share my insights and tips to help de-mystify and simplify skincare issues.
CLICK HERE TO READ THE FULL MENS´SKINCARE COLUMN
BE SKIN SMART™
