Your skin is the largest organ of your body and therefore it deserves as much care as the rest of your body.  For years, women have known this and have collectively spent billions of dollars every year, on skin care products and cosmetics.  In recent years, the importance of skin care for men, has become more known and accepted.  Not only are men more concerned about their appearance, and what can be done to slow down the effects of aging, their skin also has very unique needs.

Here are some tips that specifically apply to men:

1. Get into the habit of cleansing your face regularly—

Men tend to have more oily skin, due to their male hormones.  In addition, regular shaving tends to result in reduced hydration.  So men’s skin tends to be both oily and lacking in hydration at the same time!

Men should get into the habit of washing their faces in the morning and before bedtime using a gentle cleanser.  Some men prefer to use bar soap, and this is okay as long as the bar soap is not making your skin feel tight or itchy afterwards.  If it is, either use bar soap with a moisturizer called glycerin in it, or buy a liquid cleanser.  Cleansers that contain salicylic acid or benzyl peroxide are good options.  In addition, many manufacturers have now tapped into the growing market of men’s skin care, and sell cleansers (and moisturizers) for men.  One kind is the Aveeno Men’s Face Wash.

It is also recommended that men wash their faces before shaving, as it makes it easier for the shaver to glide along the face.

Aveeno Active Naturals Men’s Face Wash, 5.1 oz

2. Don’t forget to moisturize—

In order for men to keep their faces hydrated, it is also important to use moisturizer day and night.  Hydrated skin not only looks better, it also creates a smoother shave.

Keep in mind that moisturizer is the last step in the skin care routine.  The type of moisturizer used will depend on how oily or dry the skin is, but generally search for those with ingredients such as glycerin or shea butter.  Men tend to prefer unscented or lightly scented products.  It is also beneficial to use a moisturizer with SPF 30 UVA/UVB sunscreen protection as it protects from the damaging and aging effects that the sun’s rays cause.  Moisturizer, if being used for the anti-aging, and sun-protection benefits, will need to be re-applied every couple of hours in hot climates or after sweating.  In addition, do not forget to add moisturizer to your eyebrows, receding hairline, and neck.

Men with very oily skin or with acne should search for moisturizers with salicylic acid or glycolic acid to reduce the chances of more breakouts.

3. Shave—

Men have the added task of regularly shaving their faces.  By following the above skin care tips already mentioned, it will improve the results of the shave.  Further tips for improving the shave include:

* Use electric razors over blades—

However, for men who prefer using blades, it is best to avoid the multi-blade razors as they result in more razor burn and ingrown hairs.  Instead, opt for those with one or no more than two blades.

* Shave in the shower—

The warmth of the water can open up pores and make the beard hairs softer, making it easier to shave.

* Use after-shave lotion—

After you have shaved, always apply after-shave lotion as it is hydrating and soothing for your skin.  Be sure to choose products that are alcohol-free, to avoid drying out your face.  Follow up with moisturizer last.