Gone are the days when skincare was seen as a woman’s domain. Today, a wide range of facial cleansers, toners, moisturizers, and more are designed specifically for men, catering to different skin types and offering numerous benefits. Beyond grooming and dressing well, it’s essential to focus on your health, particularly through daily facial skincare. Do you understand your skin type and know how to properly care for it?
Here’s a quick rundown of the essential steps in a modern gentleman’s skincare routine. It’s not just about facial cleansers anymore.
Basic Facial Skincare Steps
Facial Cleanser: Removes dirt, bacteria, and dead skin cells from the surface.
Toner: Provides deeper cleaning, removes sebum from pores, and restores pH balance after cleansing. Apply using a spray or cotton pad.
Moisturizer: Balances moisture levels and acts as a protective barrier against environmental factors.
Face Mask: An advanced option applied 1-2 times per week to exfoliate dead skin cells and keep skin smooth and clear.
Normal Skin
Normal skin is balanced and non-greasy, with a consistently healthy and smooth appearance.
If you’re lucky enough to have normal skin, basic products like facial cleansers are usually enough. You might add a toner or moisturizer if desired. Aim to maintain your skin's natural health, and use moisturizers with SPF for extra protection.
Recommendation from me: Try Bulldog’s Original line. Its gentle fragrance and natural ingredients make it a solid choice.
Oily Skin
Oily skin is characterized by shine, especially in the T-zone (forehead, nose), and is prone to acne due to clogged pores. Oily skin can become shiny quickly after cleansing, so it’s crucial to balance moisture without over-drying.
For oily skin, follow these steps: cleanser, toner, moisturizer, and exfoliating mask (1-2 times per week).
Recommendation from me: Kiehl’s Oil Eliminator range is excellent. It leaves my skin feeling clean and matte, and their Rare Earth Mask, used twice a week, helps with a brighter, smoother complexion.😀
Combination Skin
Combination skin features both oily and normal/dry areas. The T-zone is oily, while the cheeks may be normal or dry.
Focus on the oily areas with oil-absorbing masks after cleansing. Use cleansers suitable for oily skin, and apply toner and moisturizer accordingly.
Recommendation from me: In Vietnam, products specifically for combination skin are scarce. The Body Shop’s Seaweed line and The Face Shop’s NEO range are notable. For masks, The Body Shop’s Tea Tree Face Mask is effective for oily zones.
Dry/Sensitive Skin
Dry and sensitive skin share similar symptoms and require careful treatment. Dry skin lacks a natural oil layer, making it sensitive to chemicals and prone to irritation.
Opt for alcohol-free products with minimal harsh chemicals. These products often range from moderately priced to expensive.
Recommendation from me: Bulldog’s Sensitive range or Baxter of California are excellent choices. I’m currently using Baxter’s shampoo and conditioner, and they’re gentle and non-irritating.
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