When it comes to skincare, a lot of men are used to doing the bare minimum. Today, people are far more interested in maintaining younger-looking skin than ever before, and men are incorporating everything from a straight razor to moisturizers in the search for a healthier hue. Contrary to popular belief, it doesn’t take buckets of oils and creams to keep your face looking fresh. With just a few tips, you can take your skincare routine from absent to awesome practically overnight!

Start With Skin Type

Before any real skincare routine can get underway, you’ll need to determine what skin type you have. Understanding what makes your skin unique will help you find the best products to keep your body’s largest organ looking great. For example, certain skin types will cause much fewer problems when shaving with a straight razor. The basic skin types include:

• Sensitive: Overly sensitive skin can sting, burn or even cause a rash if harsher products are used.
• Dry: Flaky, itchy, scaly, or rough skin may need additional moisturizers.
• Oily: Shiny and greasy-feeling skin might need special products to help stay clean and clear.
• Normal: Skin that isn’t dry, oily, or overly sensitive.
• Combination: Many people have oily cheeks but a dry brow, or very sensitive noses! Knowing all about your skin lets you provide the best all-over treatment.

You should also pay attention to any underlying conditions. For example, sensitive skin may be caused by rosacea and would require specialized treatment. It may be a good idea to see a dermatologist if eczema or other conditions are causing a problem. It may mean using certain products aren’t a great option for your skincare routine.

The Cutting Edge

A great tool to introduce to your skincare kit is the straight-edged razor. Instead of quickly zipping a disposable brand over your cheeks and jawline, a straight razor requires a bit more time and control. There is also a learning curve for people more accustomed to traditional disposable brands, but the extra effort is worth it since the blade’s shape is perfect for precision shaving. With proper preparation and technique, you’ll be treated to the closest shave of your life!

The large single blade of a straight-edged razor is made from high-quality steel that holds its edge much longer than disposable models, and a sharper blade means closer cuts. Using disposables also makes your face much more prone to razor burn since most brands include three, four, or even five blades! Having that many razors scraping against your cheeks is bound to cause some irritation. Choosing straight-edge varieties offer the most control and going slow and steady can even turn shaving into a meditative experience.

Creams of the Crop

A good disposable or straight razor isn’t the only weapon you’ll need in your skincare arsenal. It’s important to find the best product that works with your skin type because using the wrong one can actually leave you looking and feeling worse. It’s also good to remember that some products work best when put on first thing in the morning, while others are more effective with a nighttime application.

There are a few essentials that should be in every skincare toolbox. A good moisturizer will help smooth out wrinkles and refresh skin. Some formulas are also specifically designed for under-eye care. Astringents disinfect the skin and can clear away dead skin and dirt, while serums can add vitamins and antioxidants to tired faces. Most importantly, a facial moisturizer should have some form of SPF included, keeping those crows’ feet and laugh lines caused by excessive sun at bay.

Reliable Routines

The best way to maintain great-looking skin is to create a daily skincare routine. Choosing the correct products is only half the battle. It’s also important to apply everything in the right order. A general rule of thumb is to apply thinner creams first since they have a more difficult time penetrating ones with thicker consistencies. A great example of a daily routine could be:

1. Wash your face with warm water and a gentle cleanser.
2. Apply pre-shave oil to soften hair and prepare the skin.
3. Choose between a disposable for speed or a straight razor for style and performance.
4. Pick a shave gel or cream that works with your skin type.
5. Rinse with cold water to close your pores.
6. Use a disinfecting aftershave product.
7. Apply moisturizer and sunblock.

While the list may seem like a lot, these simple steps take little time and help ensure your skin gets the attention it deserves. Building it into a routine will help it become another part of your day, and with the right mindset, a skin-care regime can also become a time of self-care, too.

Facing Facts

Your face is most often the first thing people see, but many people still push skincare to the wayside. Taking time out of your morning or before bed to care for your skin will go a long way to keeping you looking young and healthy. With the right tools and an appropriate routine, great-looking and vibrant skin will never be out of reach!