Skin care tips for men

1. Consider product labels and ingredients. The skin care products you choose will depend on your skin type. If you have acne-prone skin, look for cleansers and moisturizers that are labeled “oil-free” or “non-comedogenic,” as they won’t clog your pores. If you have sensitive skin, use gentle “fragrance-free” products, as products with fragrance can irritate and dry the skin. However, watch out for products labeled “unscented,” as many of these contain masking fragrances that can still irritate the skin.

2. Wash your face every day and after exercise. Since regular soaps often contain harsh ingredients that can dry out your skin, wash your face with a gentle cleanser and warm (not hot) water.

3. Pay attention to your shaving technique. For some men, a multi-blade razor may work too well or shave too close to the skin. If you experience frequent razor bumps, razor burn, or ingrown hairs, switch to a single or dual blade razor and shave without straining your skin. Before shaving, moisten skin and hair to soften skin. Use a moisturizing shaving cream and shave in the direction of hair growth. Rinse your razor after every shave and replace your blades after five to seven shaves to minimize irritation.

4. Moisturize daily. Moisturizers work by locking moisture into the skin, which can help reduce the appearance of fine lines, leaving your skin looking brighter and more youthful. For best results, apply moisturizer to face and body immediately after bathing, showering, or shaving while skin is still damp.

5. Check your skin regularly. A new spot or mole that is itchy, bleeding, or discolored is often an early warning sign of skin cancer. If you notice any suspicious spots, make an appointment to see a dermatologist. Men over age 50 have a higher risk of developing melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, than the general population. However, skin cancer is curable if caught early.

6. Wear sunscreen whenever you are outdoors. To help prevent sun damage that can lead to wrinkles, age spots, and even skin cancer, apply sunscreen to all exposed skin areas, including the scalp, ears, neck, and lips, before heading outside. For best protection, use a broad-spectrum water-resistant sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating. If possible, you can also protect your skin by seeking shade and wearing sun-protective clothing, such as lightweight long-sleeved shirts, pants, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses. For more effective sun protection, choose clothing with an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) label.