To keep things simple, look for a cleanser that you can use on both your body and face. However, if you are prone to breakouts, then you may want to invest in a special cleanser for your face. Look for facial cleansers with vitamins A, C, or E. These vitamins will help to wash off common irritants that get on your skin during the day. [2] X Expert Source Paul Friedman, MDBoard Certified Dermatologist Expert Interview. 8 April 2020. Avoid bar soaps, unless they contain added moisturizers. Bar soaps tend to be drying, and if you’re using them every day, their effects will quickly begin to show. [3] X Research source
For most men, a regular moisturizing lotion will work just fine. For tougher patches of skin like those on your knees and elbows, it may help to grab a body butter instead for deeper nourishing. When shopping around for a good moisturizer, make sure the word “noncomedogenic” appears somewhere on the bottle. This means the product won’t clog your pores, which can cause breakouts. [6] X Research source However, if you have dry skin, then the product you choose may not include this on the label, and that is okay.
Over-exfoliating can cause your skin to become red and irritated, so limit your scrubbing sessions to 3-4 times per week. [8] X Research source You can also use body washes and face creams that contain exfoliating particles if loofahs aren’t your thing. Just make sure you don’t get the kind with plastic beads, as these are bad for the environment.
Apply your acne cream of choice to your face, shoulders, back, and anywhere else you tend to break out As a last resort for acne, use a cream that contains at least 2% salicylic acid and follow it up with a topical lotion with 5-10% percent benzoyl peroxide. [10] X Research source Keep in mind that this may leave your skin dry and flaky, so it is not something you should do regularly.
Where skincare is concerned, it’s easier to prevent than to cure. Biting the bullet and rubbing on a little sunscreen now can keep your from ending up with dry, cracked, leathery skin later in life. Consistent sunscreen use can also reduce the threat of skin condition like eczema and melanoma, which are linked to UV rays. [13] X Research source
Throw your lip chapstick or lip balm in your pocket, or keep a spare tube in the glove compartment of your car. That way, you’ll never be caught without it. Make sure that you do not use chapstick too often or your lips may become dependent on it and no longer moisturize themselves.
You may find it necessary to up your moisturizing routine in the wintertime. Cold air and high winds can severely dry out your face and lips, making them cracked and painful. On the flip side, heat often causes profuse sweating, which can leave you feeling greasy and increase the likelihood of a breakout. [15] X Research source
If your cravings for nicotine get to be too much for you, consider switching to gum or patches instead. These types of aids make it possible to scratch that itch without treating your skin like a hog in a smokehouse. [17] X Research source
Studies have shown that the fatty acids in foods like avocados, dark chocolate, nuts, and coconut oil are also a major contributor to glowing skin. [19] X Research source Cut back on red meat and loading up on foods like fish, eggs, and legumes if your goal is to keep your protein intake high without sabotaging your skin. Consider taking a once-a-day men’s multivitamin to ensure you’re receiving the all the essential nutrients you’re not getting from your diet.
Physical activity promotes proper circulation, regulates your blood sugar, and flushes out undesirable substances through sweat. It’s also good for your heart, metabolism, brain function, and just about everything else![21] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source
A good way to tell whether you’re getting enough water is to take a look at the color of your urine the next time you go to the bathroom. If it’s clear or light yellow, it means you’re properly hydrated. If it’s dark yellow, pour yourself another glass. [23] X Research source Stick to water, tea, and coffee as much as possible. Soda and other sweet drinks are full of sugar, and have been linked to acne and other skin problems. [24] X Research source
Lay on your back when you turn in for the night to keep your face from coming into direct contact with the pillowcase. If you prefer to sleep on your stomach, upgrade to a silk, satin, or high-thread-count cotton pillowcase. Rougher fabrics can create microscopic abrasions. [26] X Research source
