We spend a lot of time sharing tips, tricks, and trends for ladies and brides and it occurred to us that maybe we’ve left our men feeling a little neglected? Men, this one’s for you! Here’s everything you wanted to know about male grooming, but were afraid to ask.
We bet many of you have never even thought of having a skin care regimen. But your skin is the largest organ of your body and it’s also the most visible. While it’s important to care for your skin, your routine needn’t be as complicated as a woman’s.
We reached out to our stylists for advice on how to care for men’s skin. AFDT stylist Laura came back with some expert advice: “With male grooming, it’s important to keep it simple. Three steps: cleanse, exfoliate, and moisturize.” But what should you use? There are many quality products out there and we agree that the choices can be daunting! While it’s not necessary to use a product labeled specifically for men, several brands have recently launched lines designed with you in mind.
If you’d like some help in picking the right products, you might want to consider going to a department store. Aramis has a great line of products that are found at the men’s fragrance counter in department stores such as Dillards and Macy’s; you will never have to step foot into the cosmetics department!
Prefer the privacy of your home? Ask your friendly Mary Kay or Avon rep for help.
Would you rather just buy a few products on your own? Find a great website like www.dermstore.com and click through to their men’s department. You will find products so cool and full of advanced technology that even we want to use them!
Drugstore, Target or Wal-mart shopper? Check out Neutrogena and Dove for men. Or buy something unisex that you can share, such as Aveeno products.
Overwhelmed by the number of bottles to choose from? Here’s Male Grooming 101:
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Wash your face twice a day with product made for your face, not your body.
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Exfoliate (remove dead skin) 2 -3 x per wk with a product made for your face, not your body.
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The most important thing you can do is to use a moisturizer with sunscreen (SPF) during the day.
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Use an “aftershave” to help soothe your skin.
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When your skin acts oily (shiny), select an “oil-free gel or lotion” formula.
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If your skin is normal (neither shiny nor dry), use regular “lotion” weight.
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When your skin feels dry (tight and uncomfortable), try a “cream”.
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Eye Gels treat morning puffiness (AFDT has a great one). Eye Creams help minimize wrinkles.
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If you are preparing for a special event (such as your wedding day), it’s important to start your skincare routine at least three to four weeks ahead of time.
If you are the kind of man who wants to go the extra mile or make points with your significant other, try a DIY facial mask (this can make for a fun date night!). Choose your mask based on your skin type. To absorb surface oils and deep to clean your pores, try a clay-based mask. Dry or irritated skin will find an oatmeal masks to be especially soothing. Here’s a recipe for a clay mint mask as well as a variety of oatmeal masks to make at home.
The routine for clear, touchable skin for men is straightforward and simple. Start your new regime with enough time to achieve your skincare goals before your special event and be sure to stay consistent. There’s nothing wrong with being a “beautiful” AFDT man!
