Getting older is inevitable. Looking older than you feel, not so much. For men, skincare has traditionally been pretty simple, wash face, maybe moisturiser and then get on with your day. More men are now discovering that good skin is less about vanity and more about looking healthy, fresh and well cared for and anti-ageing skincare is becoming part of the everyday grooming routine.
Start With A Good Face Wash - Shop Cleansers
The first step to younger looking skin is keeping it clean. Throughout the day you face collects sweat, oil, pollution and other environmental nasties. If you're not washing it properly all that is building up and can leave your skin looking dull and tired. It also stops the serums and moisturisers from getting in and doing their job effectively.
Choose a cleanser suited to your skin type rather than relying on whatever soap happens to be in the shower. Check out our blog on identifying your skin type. A good face wash shouldn't leave your skin feeling tight or stripped.
SPF is Your Biggest Anti-Ageing Weapon
Protecting your skin from the sun and preventing premature ageing is so important, ideally you want to wear sunscreen everyday.
UV exposure is one of the biggest contributors to visible skin ageing. From wrinkles, fine lines and pigmentation.
Anti-ageing isn't just about fixing exisiting damage - it's about preventing more of it.
Add a Serum to Your Routine
A serum can help undo some of the damaged already caused, including pigmentation and fine lines, dehydration and dull skin.
Serums to look for;
Vitamin C - Helps brighten the appearance of skin and support a more even looking complexion.
Hyaluronic acid - Helps attract and retain moisture leaving skin looking plumper and more hydrated.
Niacinamide - Can help support the skin barrier and improve the appearance of uneven skin tone and texture.
Retinol - one of the best known anti-ageing ingredients, retinol can help improve the appearance of fine lines, texture and pigmentation over time.
Eye Cream - Add a eye serum or eye cream to your routine, most face serums cannot be used around the eye area, so a specific eye cream is essential.
Start with one, address your biggest concern and build from there.
Never Under Estimate a Good Moisturiser - Shop Moisturisers
Dehydrated skin can make fine lines look more noticeable and leave your complexion looking tired. Dehydrated skin could also mean drinking more water and applying a cream suitable to your skin type am and pm.
A good moisturiser helps maintain the skins moisture barrier and keep your face feeling comfortable through the day. If you are oily, don't assume you don't need a moisturiser, look for light weight or oil free one. If you skin is dry or tight after cleansing, look for a richer cream.
The goal isn't to make you feel like your skin is covered in product, but to keep it balanced and hydrated, which plumps your fine lines and protects from further damage.
Don't Forget Your Eyes - Shop Eye Products
Your eye area is often one of the first places where signs of ageing become noticeable. Dark circles, puffiness, dehydration and fine lines can all contribute to a tired appearance.
An eye product formulated for the delicate eye area can make a big difference. Look for ingredients designed to hydrate, brighten and reduce the appearance of fine lines. Also getting enough sleep and protecting the eye area from the sun matters too.
Your Beard Doesn't Make Skincare Optional - Shop Beard Care
If you have a beard the skin around the beard and underneath still needs attention. Beards can trap sweat, oil and product while the skin underneath can become dry and irritated.
Make sure your cleanser reaches the skin beneath the beard and consider using a beard oil or balm if the area is feeling dry and itchy.
Healthy facial hair starts from the skin underneath.
The Lifestyle Stuff Matters Too
Skincare can do a lot but your daily habits matter too. Staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet and getting enough sleep and exercise all contribute to a healthier looking skin. Consistency matters more than perfection.
A Simple Anti-ageing Routine - Shop Anti-Ageing
If you're a man who wants to improve your skin without to much effort;
AM - Cleanse, Vitamin C Serum, Moisturiser, SPF
PM - Cleanse, Retinol, Eye Cream, Moisturiser
Start slow with actives like retinol, try every 3 days and slowly increase the usage.
You might not be able to turn back the clock to your 20s but you can make your skin look healthier, fresher and more youthful with a simple routine.
You want your skin to look as good as you feel, and thats something worth investing in at any age.