(By Dr Mayur R Shetty, who is a Consultant Cosmetics and Plastic Surgery, at Narayana Health City Bangalore)
One of the most prevalent misconceptions among men is the belief that they don't need to invest much effort in skincare. Many males grapple with issues like acne and pigmentation, often assuming that such concerns are ordinary. However, this is far from the truth. In the world we live in today, it's crucial to comprehend your skin type and its requirements, and to care for it accordingly. Here are some fundamental skincare steps that can be easily incorporated into your routine:
- Prioritize Sun Protection: While it's often the last step in a skincare routine, sun protection is arguably the most vital and frequently overlooked. Applying sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30 on a daily basis is highly recommended. For individuals with oily skin, a sunscreen with a matte finish is an excellent choice, as it doesn't leave behind a greasy layer. Consistently using sunscreen is paramount in preventing UV damage to the skin and significantly decelerating the aging process.
- Cleansing: Cleansing your face with a gentle cleanser at least twice daily, especially after outdoor activities, is crucial. This helps rid the skin of debris and dirt accumulated during the day.
- Moisturise: Hydration is essential for healthy skin. Depending on your skin type, you can opt for a lightweight or slightly denser moisturiser to rehydrate your skin. Most moisturisers contain ingredients like Vitamin E and aloe Vera, and the presence of hyaluronic acid enhances skin hydration.
- Exfoliation: Regular exfoliation is necessary to eliminate dead skin cells and unclog pores. Gently exfoliating once a week helps keep pores open without overdoing it.
- Shaving: When it comes to shaving, avoid razors with three or more blades, as they can cause small injuries that allow bacteria to enter, leading to infections and pigmentation issues. A clean shave or a gentle trim followed by cleansing and moisturising is sufficient. Also, pay attention to the direction of your shave, ensuring it aligns with the direction of hair growth rather than going against it.
- Hair Care: Understand that shampooing is only necessary three or four times a week. Additionally, using a deep conditioner can moisturize the scalp and prevent hair follicle breakage.
- Establish a Skincare Regimen: It's essential to follow a consistent skincare routine both in the morning and at night to maintain healthy and well-hydrated skin.
Among these steps, sun protection stands out as the most crucial, often overlooked component that can significantly slow down the ageing process for all skin types. To determine what suits your skin best and establish a healthy skincare routine, consulting a specialist is highly recommended. Remember that taking care of your skin is an investment in your long-term health and appearance.
[The opinions, beliefs, and views expressed by the various authors and forum participants on this website are personal and do not reflect the opinions, beliefs, and views of ABP Network Pvt. Ltd.]