If you’re new to a skincare routine and think that soap and water are enough, you’re missing out a lot! Plenty of men neglect this part of their lives completely. However, taking care of your skin should be your habit, not something to be ashamed of or to omit. Clear and healthy skin greatly contributes to the quality of your professional and personal life. What if you miss out on a great job deal or a date because you look a bit unkempt? If you don’t have a skincare routine, it’s time to change that. You may be a little overwhelmed with the number of different products available on the market. Don’t worry; we’ve prepared a list of 5 simple steps you should take to perfect your daily skincare routine. Let’s go!
Pro tip: Beard Dye
If you have a beard, you probably know how much effort you have to put in to keep it in great shape. However, just a little bit of time in the morning and the evening, and the effects are definitely worth it! A well-maintained beard makes you look attractive and more confident. If you’re not completely satisfied with the way your beard looks, try beard dye. It’s a great way to get rid of grey hair and make your beard look fuller and healthier.
If you want to dye your beard, do it before you start your daily skincare routine. Always perform a sensitivity check at least one day before you plan to dye your beard. Make sure you have all the tools at your disposal: a mixing bowl, rubber gloves, paper towels, an applicator (if your product doesn’t come with one, use a toothbrush instead), and an old T-shirt to avoid staining. Then, it’s time to prep your beard. Scrub and wash your beard in the shower to get rid of oils and debris. Apply vaseline around your beard to avoid staining your skin. After that, prep your beard dye according to the instructions. Now you’re ready to apply the product! Work it in an up and down movement using your applicator and make sure you spread it on all the areas that need coverage. Set a timer and test the color after you wait the recommended amount of time. If you’re not satisfied with the color, apply more product and leave it for a couple of minutes. Finally, rinse off the dye and wash your beard with a nice shampoo and conditioner. Repeat the process from time to time to get that healthy color boost!
Cleanser
You may wonder why soap is not good enough and why you need all these products. Well, soaps are too alkaline and dry out your skin too much. Meanwhile, a good cleanser is a fundamental step to great skin. Wash your face with it twice a day to get rid of pore-clogging impurities and rebalance the pH level. The morning cleansing will refresh and prep your skin for the day. Pick a product suitable for your skin type – if you have sensitive skin, a water-based cleanser will work best for you. Don’t forget to wash your hands before applying the product! Also, use lukewarm water to prevent irritation and blood vessels breaking.
Toner
The next step in your skincare routine should be a toner. It restores the natural pH of your skin, detoxifies it and helps smooth it out. Besides keeping it clean, it also renders it shine-free. Some toners are infused with antioxidants, which are essential for anti-ageing. After you’re finished with the cleanser, spray your toner on a cotton pad and gently dab it on your face. Now you’re ready for the next step!
Exfoliator
When it comes to exfoliating, you don’t have to do it daily. It’s best to do it at least twice a week, or more often if your skin is oily. You can opt for a physical exfoliator or a scrub. Massage your skin for approximately 30 seconds, focusing on your problem areas, and then rinse off the product. Just a single wash will clear away dead skin cells and congested dirt, making your skin clean and refreshed. Keep in mind, don’t rub too hard, because some exfoliators tend to be a bit abrasive. Be gentle with the product to avoid skin irritation.
Moisturizer
Let’s talk about the most important product in your skincare routine. Just like plants need watering, your skin needs to be hydrated every day. Moisturizers keep your skin properly hydrated, youthful, and healthy. When you cleanse and exfoliate your skin, some of its nutrients are washed away, along with the dirt. A moisturizer replenishes them and builds a protective barrier your skin needs to look fresh and attractive. If you have oily skin, you should use less product. Apply a larger amount during summer and winter months, and if your skin is on the drier side. Make sure you apply your moisturizer evenly in the morning and in the evening.
SPF
Last but not least, don’t forget to use your SPF cream! If you want to keep your skin healthy, cleansing and moisturizing are not enough. While this part is often neglected in a skincare routine, it’s also the most essential. Because the sun hits your skin both during summer and winter months, it can cause skin damage, discoloration, premature ageing, or even cancer. To safeguard your skin from sun damage, opt for a light, fast-absorbing, non-greasy sunscreen. Apply it at the end of your skincare routine before you leave the house. Now you’re all set!
The Bottom Line
If you think a splash of water and an all-in-one product is enough, you’re not doing yourself justice! Although there are so many skincare products to choose from, try to assemble a simple kit based on these tips and see how it all works. After some time, you should see how the condition of your skin improves. All it takes is 5 simple steps and an additional tip if you have a beard. Cleanse, tone, exfoliate, hydrate, moisturize, and protect your skin to become the best version of yourself. You’re worth it!