Skincare is a game changer. SAY IT LOUDER FOR THE MEN IN THE BACK. Yes, looking after your skin isn’t just for women, but I’ll agree that it does seem pretty complex if you’ve never navigated skincare before or you haven’t found the right products for your skin.
So, this post is going to be your holy grail to looking your absolute best. Think of it like a cheat sheet. So, your basic skincare routine should include a face wash/cleanser, an exfoliator (absolute game changer) a hydrating and anti-aging moisturiser and an aftershave balm at the very minimum. Now you know what you need, you can start to navigate brands. I’ve included holy grail products from the best men’s skincare brands.
Face wash is the first step in your daily grooming routine. If you can find out what skin type you are, this can be useful when choosing a face wash or a cleanser but if in doubt choose one for normal skin. AESOP is a luxury Australian brand that is known for skincare that is of the highest quality which means a cleanser that boasts well-thought-out, premium ingredients. Cleansing your face in the morning and the evening rids any impurities and creates a clean base for the rest of your skincare routine.
The next step is exfoliation. This is what’s going to get rid of any dead skin cells that are going to make your skin look dull, flaky or dry. You can do this step twice per week and it’s ideal to do it before you shave. Clinique are a superb men’s skincare brand and their exfoliator contains the key ingredient salicylic acid which prepares the skin for a close shave.
Once you have washed, scrubbed and shaved, it’s time to hydrate. This is a vital part of your grooming routine as it soothes the face and calms the skin after shaving and adds a youthful glow. Here you are looking for a lotion or balm that will reduce any signs of post-shaving irritation and ideally, some antibacterial properties to protect your skin when it is at its most vulnerable.
Perfect gift alert! Hunter’s aftershave balm from The Edinburgh Natural Skincare Company is the ultimate post-shave balm and it gains extra points for using natural ingredients and anti-inflammatory heroes like French Provencal Lavender, Frankincense and Myrrh. Coconut Oil and Shea Butter provide oodles of moisture benefits while Lime oil is a natural antioxidant for a healthy glow. Even the packaging is eco-friendly! This 100% natural aftershave balm is truly transformative and perfect for eco-conscious shoppers.
If you don’t shave or prefer a lotion, Elemis do a fabulous moisturiser that does what it says on the tin.
Now we’ve covered the must-haves, let’s look at the optional extras for your best skin yet. The under-eye area can show your age so your regular moisturiser won’t cut it. An eye gel will depuff the area and hydrate and this Clinique Anti Fatigue eye gel (on sale) comes with a handy roller ball that is basically sleep in a tube. Pack this with you if you travel for work, it’s the perfect wake-me-up solution after a late night or long work week.
Lastly, a lip balm is your final step. No more flaky dry lips. Ladies, if you are reading this, pop one in his stocking this Christmas!
