Tips For Men To Keep Their Skin Looking Great In Winter
January has kicked off with a blast of Baltic weather, and we’re heading into the depths of winter. The cold dry air can be very tough on our skin, as it draws out moisture and leaves skin dehydrated and uncomfortable. This can result in skin that feels rough and irritated, and prone to cracking, flaking and inflammation.
For men who shave regularly, this can present extra challenges as the razor can further irritate the skin that is already very dry. Here’s a look at how men's natural skincare products can help, and some general tips for taking care of your skin in winter.
Use a daily moisturiser
Men’s skin is generally thicker and oiler than women’s skin, so you may not be in the habit of moisturising daily. However, in winter, the low outdoor temperatures and heated indoor environments with low humidity combine to create the perfect enemy for healthy hydrated skin.
Furthermore, long hot showers, which are very tempting in the colder months, strip the natural oils from the skin, leaving it dry and sensitive. It’s impossible to avoid dry air in winter wherever you go, so the best line of defence is to get into the habit of moisturising your skin every day, if you do not already do so.
However, choose your moisturiser with care: products that contain artificial fragrances or emulsifiers can irritate your skin further. Look for organic natural ingredients such as aloe vera, shea butter, and jojoba oil.
This will not only keep your skin feeling soft and comfortable in the winter, but also help to manage the signs of ageing, so moisturing is a great habit to stick to all year round.
Avoid washing your face with harsh soaps
Soaps or cleansers that are not designed for sensitive skin can damage the skin’s protective barrier and cause irritation and dryness. Instead, use products with gentle natural ingredients that will effectively remove excess dirt and oils without being excessively drying.
Exfoliate gently
Exfoliation can help to improve the condition of skin by removing dead skin cells, reducing inflammation and acne. It will also help to transform a dull or rough looking texture into a smoother and more radiant complexion, helping you to feel well-groomed and confident. The process also helps moisturisers to be absorbed more easily.
However, approach exfoliation with caution during the winter months, because it can disrupt the skin’s natural barrier if the process is too harsh or frequent. About once or twice a week should be sufficient for most skin types. Choose gentle products with natural ingredients such as oatmeal or cosmetic clay.
Shave with care
Shaving can irritate the skin, especially in winter when it’s already prone to dryness. Whenever possible, shave after a warm shower, because this will open up the pores and this will naturally make the skin more supple and resistant to damage. If you are in a hurry, gently wash your face with warm water and pat it dry.
Use a shaving balm with natural ingredients such as tea tree or argan oil to massage into your face before you begin shaving. Make sure that the product doesn't contain alcohol or parabens, which can irritate the skin. Use a clean sharp razor, and shave in the direction that your hair grows, applying gentle pressure but maintaining a light touch.
When you have finished shaving, rinse your skin with warm water, and apply a calming moisturiser with soothing ingredients such as aloe vera. Remember to clean your razor so it’s free from bacteria that could irritate your skin next time you use it.
Keep beards in trim
If you have a beard, it’s still important to keep the underlying skin in good condition to prevent flakiness and itching. Keep your beard trimmed, and apply a beard oil that contains essential oils to hydrate both your facial hair and the skin underneath it.
Use sunscreen
Men may not be in the habit of using sunscreen in the winter, but UV light can cause damage whatever the weather. Many women apply makeup or serums with built-in SPF protection as a daily habit all year round, but men may not realise the importance of protecting their skin in the winter.
Choose products with an SPF of 20 or above, which may be a separate sunscreen, or as an integral part of your daily moisturiser. This will protect your skin from the signs of ageing and harmful damage.
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