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Men’s Skincare 101 – 10 Tips for Clearer, Younger-Looking Skin

By Dr. Jen Newell, ND

I am beginning to see more and more men in my office looking for support to improve their skin. It is becoming much more common for men to be looking for a protocol to ensure their skin is healthy and clear.

1. Say No to Bar Soap

Investing in a proper cleanser will help slough away dead skin cells and remove any dirt or grime from the day. This will help prevent your skin from becoming dull looking. Cleansing in the morning and before bed will help your skin remain fresh. Avoid cleansers that are overly drying as this can leave the skin red and irritated. A gentle cleanser is all you need unless your skin is very oily.

Recommended cleansers: Odacité Rejuvenating Cleanser, The Body Deli Sage & Grapefruit Cleanser, Clinical Luxury The Cleanser and Ursa Major Fantastic Face Wash

2. Moisturizer is a Must

A moisturizer should be an automatic step after cleansing your skin. Apply it while your skin is still slightly damp to better seal in moisture. For sun protection, a moisturizer with SPF is an efficient strategy to prevent the aging effects of sun damage. If your skin is on the drier side, opt for an oil based moisturizer or serum. If you tend to be oilier, look for water-based products or those that balance oil production.

Recommended moisturizers: Pai Geranium & Thistle Combination Skin Cream, Ursa Major Fortifying Face Balm or the targeted moisturizers by Weleda

3. , bro!

Topical moisturizers are only half of the hydration equation – the skin also requires moisture from the inside out. Make sure you are drinking sufficient water or herbal teas to remain hydrated throughout the day. Also, keep in mind how much alcohol and caffeine you enjoy because both will leave you dehydrated and your skin looking dull and tired. For every alcoholic or caffeinated beverage you have make sure you pair it with an equal amount of water.

4. A Wrinkle in Time

I hate to break it to you but it is never too early to start preventing wrinkles. Even if you are still getting carded at the bar adding skincare products that prevent premature aging and sun damage will stave off lines and wrinkles in the future. Products containing hyaluronic acid and vitamin C are great for wrinkle prevention.

Recommended products to prevent wrinkles: Osmia Organics Active Gel Toner, The Body Deli Nourishing Night Cream, Odacite An Autumn on the World and FitGlow Beauty Super C Cream

5.Your Sweet Enough as You Are

Don’t overdo your sugar intake; indulgences are fine once in a while but excess can lead to inflammation, breakouts and premature aging. Unfortunately, sugar hides in even seemingly healthy foods like yogurt, cereals and protein bars.

6. Here Comes the Sun

As amazing and revitalizing as the sun feels, the rays can be damaging and speed up the aging process. The UVB and UVA rays slow down collagen production and cause the skin to lose its elasticity. Look for a moisturizer or sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher to best protect the skin.

Recommended sunscreens: Josh Rosebrook Nutrient Day Cream with SPF 30, The Body Deli Solar Day Cream, Clinical Luxury Elements Sun Cream Complex and Consonant Skincare The Perfect Sunscreen

7. Beauty Sleep

Getting the ideal 7-8 hours of restorative sleep allows your skin cells to repair from the day’s wear and tear. What this equates to is younger looking skin with fewer wrinkles, lines and breakouts. Unfortunately, you can’t make up for lost sleep through the week by sleeping in on weekends – your body needs consistent sleep to look its best.

8. Eat the Rainbow (and, no, I don’t mean Skittles)

The antioxidants and nutrients found in fruits and vegetables fight off free radicals and reduce inflammation, sun damage and aging. Aim for at least 5-7 servings of fruits and vegetables per day to improve skin tone.

9. Stress Less

Stress doesn’t just affect your mood; it also wreaks havoc on your hormones and your skin. Stress makes you more prone to breakouts and premature aging. Unfortunately, you won’t find a bottle of zen in the beauty aisle at your local pharmacy so you need to take steps in your life to reduce and manage your stress. Doing things you love is the best method of reducing stress…take time out of each day just for you.

For more information about stress and skin health click here.

10. Butt Out!

We are all aware of the health dangers associated with smoking; smoking decreases circulation and collagen production within the skin. This causes the skin to take on a yellow hue, looking sallow and pale. It also leads to the development of fine lines around the lips and other signs of premature aging.

Bonus tip #11:

Talk to a Naturopathic Doctor for a thorough skincare assessment and targeted skin treatments to really transform your skin. A Naturopathic Doctor with a special interest in Holistic Dermatology will incorporate recommendations that address all aspects of your overall health. Not only will your skin be healthier but your will probably wind up with more energy, better sleep, improved digestive function and a stronger immune system. Schedule a free 15 minute consultation today to learn more about how Naturopathic Medicine can transform your health.

Have a beautiful day!

Dr. Jen Newell, ND – The Natural Skin Doctor