The results of Summer Sun + Bar Soap + Alcohol-based Aftershaves are not pretty. And while "pretty" is probably not the desired effect of most men who use our skin care products machismo shouldn't be either - Many men make the classic mistake of toughening up their skin with rough treatment that is actually harmful. Here are a few simple Do's & Dont's we would like to suggest to help you transition into optimum Male Skin Fitness for Fall . . .
1) Do NOT use a perfumey deodorant soap to wash the face - Instead we suggest an acid balanced cleanser to dissolve and remove impurities without upsetting the skin's pH balance.
2) To ensure a close & smooth encounter with the daily blade and reduce the risk of ingrown hairs DO use a beard-lifting lather with mild exfoliant followed by a soothing botanical balm after your shave - Do NOT shave against the grain! Improper shaving with alkaline products can cause inflammation, ingrown hairs and razor bumps which could require medical attention or lead to permanent dark scarring in many pigment rich skin types.
3) More about shaving - Do NOT slap on an alcohol based aftershave or cologne. It can make your skin more sensitive to sun exposure and can result in permanent reddening or darkening around the neck and jaw line.
4) DO Exfoliate & Moisturize adequately - Real men moisturize and exfoliate 2-3 times per week. And that includes lips too, Hombres! Dry cracked lips in need of deep hydration don't exactly invite us in for smooching.
5) Do NOT underestimate the powers of the sun by using insufficient UV protection! Real men always carry protection ;) so shield the skin from damaging UV rays with sunblock and don't forget the fragile ear area - The American Cancer Society report that men experience skin cancers and deadly melanoma at a much higher rate than women.
For more information on Men's Skin Fitness for Fall or with questions about appropriate product usage please contact your favorite skin care therapist at Blue Diamond Spa (310) 577-2211.