Culturally, our society tends to talk about skin care as it relates to women. But skin health applies to everyone. Men, Pinnacle Dermatology encourages you to prioritize the health of your skin. As your largest organ, your skin works hard and requires care like any other part of your body; it can also reflect your overall health. To make it easy, we’ve compiled tips on protecting the health of your skin and establishing a simple yet effective skin care regimen.
Why men should care about their skin
Skin care is more than shaving or pursuing a more youthful appearance; it can also prevent skin cancer and help identify systemic illnesses. Serious conditions like skin cancer can be overlooked without proper attention and care, and can be prevented by using sunscreen and performing skin exams. With the guidance of our dermatologists and team, you can also manage the uncomfortable symptoms of acne, psoriasis, eczema and other chronic skin conditions.
Identify and understand your skin type
Determining your skin type will help you learn how to best care of your skin.
• Sensitive skin may sting or burn after product use, and be prone to breakouts.
• Oily skin is shiny and greasy and may make you more prone to acne.
• Dry skin may be red, flaky, itchy or rough.
• Combination skin is dry in some areas and oily in others.
• Normal skin is balanced, clear and not sensitive.
Review product labels and ingredients
Our providers can advise you on selecting products that are right for your skin type.
• If you have oily or acne-prone skin, use oil-free and non-comedogenic cleansers and moisturizers to avoid clogging your pores.
• For sensitive skin, use mild, fragrance-free, alcohol-free products to avoid skin irritation and dryness.
• Products containing vitamins E, A, C, or antioxidants can promote younger-looking skin and protect it from damage.
Wash your face daily and after exercise
Use a mild facial cleanser and lukewarm water. Avoid bar soap, as it can be irritating and drying.
Optimize your shaving technique
If you experience razor bumps, burns, or ingrown hairs, use a single- or double-blade razor instead of a multi-blade (which can be irritating) and do not stretch your skin taut while shaving. Before shaving, wet your skin and hair to soften it. Shave in the direction of hair growth and use a gel or cream to avoid ingrown hairs. To minimize irritation, rinse your blade after each swipe, replace the blade after five to seven shaves, and store your razor in a dry area to prevent bacterial growth.
Moisturize daily after cleansing
Moisturizing keeps your skin hydrated, balanced and healthy. It reduces the appearance of fine lines and makes your skin look brighter and younger. For the best results, apply moisturizer immediately after shaving or showering while your skin is damp. To save a step, try a moisturizer with SPF.
Always wear sunscreen when outdoors
To prevent premature aging and skin cancer, apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to all exposed areas of skin at least 15 minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating.
Perform skin self-checks monthly
Examine your skin from head to toe, noting the appearance of moles and freckles. Use a mirror to check hard-to-reach places like your back. New spots or moles that itch, bleed, or change color are often early warning signs of skin cancer; see a dermatologist if you find anything unusual. Men over age 50 have a higher risk of developing melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, but early detection greatly increases survival rates.
Get an Annual Skin Exam
Visit your Pinnacle Dermatology provider if you have any concerns about your skin regimen or your skin’s health. Whether you have acne, a rash or a suspicious spot, our team can perform a skin check and provide a treatment plan. Similar to getting regular physicals or going to the dentist, paying an annual visit to your dermatologist for a Total Body Skin Exam to check for skin cancer and other skin conditions is imperative. To schedule a skin check or an Annual Skin Exam, call (833) 257-7546 or visit PinnacleSkin.com.