From sunburn to pore-clogging sweat, summer doesn’t always play nice with your skin. Men typically have large pores, so they are more prone to breakouts and clogged pores. If you are spending a lot of time in humid temperatures this summer, you may suffer with problematic skin.
So how will you take care of your skin to maintain healthy skin this summer?
Well it’s all about preparation. Don’t sweat it; just a few changes are all it takes to have an effective summer skincare routine. Read on…
1. Cleanse your face twice a day
Men’s skin is oilier to begin with. So, cleaning the face twice a day, with a good quality cleanser or facial wash and not scrubbing it with harsh soaps is imperative. Clarifying cleansers will clean the pores and remove excess oil. They reach deep inside the pores and prepare your skin for shaving or exfoliation.
Tip: Opt for a cleanser, which contains Vitamins A, C and E, as they will absorb into the skin more effectively. They also prevent fewer ingrown hairs and will keep the skin naturally healthy.
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2. Use a toner
Men’s skin is tough and thick. This means that your skin can tolerate active ingredients in toners such as astringent or Glycolic acid (GA). GA helps in keeping the pores clean throughout the day; it also restores the balance of the skin and reduces the risk of ingrown hairs after shaving.
3. Exfoliate
Getting rid of the dead skin cells via natural scrubbing is very important during the summer months. Men should typically use a deep exfoliation once every 3 days or visit a men’s salon once a month for a professional exfoliation. Natural glow can only be attained if you remove the older dead skin cells and nourish the younger skin cells
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4. Moisturise
Use a lightweight moisturiser with SPF 15 or above. It will help keep your skin moisturised, wrinkle free, prevent any fine lines from appearing on the face and will restore the moisture balance after exfoliation. It will also heal your skin, especially if you have been in the sun for too long.
5. Don’t over shave!
Try to avoid shaving everyday in the summer months. Your skin works overtime during this weather, as it needs to repair and heal after every shave. If you shave everyday it can cause further irritation, itchiness and redness.
6. Use an after shave
Aftershaves restore lost moisture and oils after a close shave. You’ll also need an aftershave to protect your skin, which will also reduce the sensitivity to the sun. Look out for a natural aftershave that contains nourishing oils for an even toned complexion.
7. Wear a sunscreen everyday
This goes without saying but a sunscreen will not work if you don’t use it in the correct way.
Be sure to use a sun block 30 minutes prior to heading outdoors. Apply a sunscreen every 2 hours as it wears off on its own, by touching, using a towel, sweating and washing your face. Don’t forget your ears!
Use a lip balm with sun protection to guard your lips.
8. Banish body odour
Using deodorant is not the only solution for getting rid of body odour. Odour arises only when bacteria mixes with your sweat, so start from the basic level. Use an anti-bacterial cleanser or body wash while showering. After apply a herbal powder and use a deodorant later once you are dressed and ready to head outside.
9. Take extra care of your skin if you suffer from acne
Acne products, which contain salicylic acid, can dry out your skin and make it more prone to sunburn. These products can rip off the top layer of your skin thereby making it more sensitive to the sun’s UV rays. Use these products only at night and consult your doctor before using a moisturiser.
Preparing your skin this summer isn’t so hard after all. These simple changes will help your skin be ready to face the heat this summer!
