When it comes to skin care, men want it fast, easy, and painless. It's funny, when I first work with a male client, he wants to feel good, feel cleaner, be relaxed and for the facial not to hurt! I'm always so amazed how much this contrasts with what women expect.

The biggest concerns that men have with regard to their skin are irritations and breakouts, ingrown hair and wrinkles. Men’s skin is completely unique and different from women’s. It's thicker, typically oilier, and, of course, there’s whisker growth. Hair growth and shaving present certain issues that require special care for men’s skin. Because most razors typically cut on an angle at the surface of the skin, a man's face is at risk for ingrown hairs. The coarser, and curlier the whiskers, the more likely he will deal with ingrown hairs. Most men do not take the time to steam towel their face for 10 minutes and then lather up their beard with a barber brush to support a good shave. 

Men’s Skincare Recommendations

For men, and depending on his skin care concerns, I typically suggest the following to maintain trouble free skin:

• Whether you shave with a razor or electric, if ingrown hair and irritation are issues, soften the beard and skin by shaving in the shower. The whiskers will soften with steam and allow for a closer shave with less irritation.

• Directly after showering or shaving, apply a gentle toner product. Calming Mist.

• Moisturize the skin daily with a CLEAN, light moisturizer that will give the skin support and plumpness, which will help lead to easier whisker growth. Again, Calming Mist is perfect! It soothes, protects with antioxidants and moisturizes all in a fast, easy spray.

• Gently exfoliate the skin (even under facial hair) with a gentle enzyme exfoliant to help release dead skin, prevent breakouts and help maintain moisture.

• Bi-monthly facials are perfect for men! Although as an Esthetician I cannot offer a shave, I offer everything else in a Gentlemen's facial that a barber might offer for a handsome result!