Common Skin Care Mistakes Among Men

Men often associate skincare regimens and products with items marketed toward women – this is a huge mistake! Men have more androgens than women, which is a sex hormone that aids in the production of sebum (oil).

This means men’s pores are more likely to become clogged and dirty. Upholding everyday skincare techniques and treatments is important to prevent acne and premature aging.

Avoiding Sunscreen

The power of sunscreen is often underestimated. Many men avoid putting on sunscreen while outdoors, especially at the beach or pool. While sun damage poses a risk for developing skin cancer in anyone, studies show that men are far more susceptible to melanoma. Additionally, sun damage can result in unpleasant pigmentation spots all over the body.

A broad-spectrum sunscreen will block harmful UVA and UVB rays from the sun and should be worn every day, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun is most intense.

Using the Wrong Products

It may be convenient to grab the bar soap or other body washes to cleanse the face, but these products are typically not meant for facial scrubs. These harsh soaps can often dry out the skin, leaving it prone to cracking and flaking.

Pay attention to your skin type – facial cleansers often are made for oily, dry, combination, or sensitive skin. Using the wrong type of product may result in an undesirable outcome. For instance, skincare products made for dry skin contain agents that moisturize which may clog oil-prone skin.

Bad Shaving Habits

Exfoliating removes dead skin cells, unclogs pores, and leaves skin ready to regenerate itself. Though exfoliating is an extremely important practice for maintaining healthy skin, it should never be done immediately after shaving when the skin is most sensitive.

Before shaving, men should wash their faces with warm water and a cleanser (specifically for the face) to soften beard hairs and prevent them from becoming ingrown. A thick, lathered layer of shaving gel or cream should be applied with a brush. Shaving creams can often irritate the skin, spending a little more on high-end products will moisturize and protect the skin. Never use dull razors and always shave with the grain of the hair on the face. Finally, always apply a naturally-derived aftershave; those containing alcohol may feel refreshing but will dry out the new layer of skin.

Picking at Blemishes

It may be extremely tempting to squeeze zits and blemishes that are staring back at you in the mirror, but no one should ever do this. The hands and fingers are covered in germs, and pimples are inflamed pockets of bacteria under the skin.

When these blemishes are picked at and popped, bacteria from within the infected pore and your fingers may spread causing further breakouts. Additionally, picking at the same spots over and over may cause scarring and discoloration.

Not Consuming the Right Things

Excess alcohol intake causes the body to dehydrate, meaning the skin will dry out and look dull. Drink a lot of water—not just when consuming alcohol—every day to stay hydrated and keep skin looking fresh.

Limit foods that contain refined sugars and are processed. These foods spike insulin levels which stress the body, therefore causing hormone-related breakouts. Foods with antioxidants fight free radicals that lead to wrinkling and sun-damage related issues; others containing essential fatty acids and vitamin C are necessary for keeping skin pliant and rich in collagen.

Contact Barba Skin Clinic

For more information about everyday skincare and services from Barba Skin Clinic, contact our Miami specialists today. Call 305-560-6813 to book an appointment today.