His skin basics
One of the interesting things about men is that although they don’t start showing signs of ageing as early as women, when the wrinkles do arrive, they go downhill fast!
Men’s skin is different to ours.
It’s around 22% thicker, for a start. Plus it’s oilier, with larger pores, a richer blood supply, and an increased tendency to sweat, so basically it gets dirtier. once they hit their forties and fifties, men’s skin thins, and that’s when the wrinkles arrive. That’s why they need products designed to protect and nourish their skin just as much as we do.
Interestingly, New Zealand men were early adopters when it came to getting into skincare, topping lists internationally as the group most prepared to spend time and money on their appearance. ooisturisers tend to be their number-one product, followed by soothing and hydrating shaving balms. For those men in your life who have been a bit slow to get going with a routine, these are his skincare basics.
His rules
The core skincare rules are:
- Cleansing
Proper cleansing will keep the pores unclogged, which can help prevent a variety of skin conditions, from pimples to ingrown hairs. Also, using a face scrub or exfoliator twice a week will help too.
- Avoid irritation
Choose a gentle shaving gel – aloe vera is a great skin-loving ingredient – and stay clear of alcohol-based aftershaves.
- Moisturise
Use a product suited to the skin type, and don’t forget about daily sun protection, which is vital for men who work outdoors or play sport.
His concerns
Men tend to have four main skin concerns:
Irritation, sensitivity and dehydration due to regular shaving, which can damage the skin.
Sun-damaged skin, and occasionally puffiness under the eye area.
Pimples and acne.
Lines and wrinkles.
His skin type
The first step in any skincare regime is to identify the type of skin you have:
If it’s shiny and prone to large pores and blemishes, then it’s on the oily side and he needs a product that’s mattifying.
If it feels tight, then it’s dry, and he needs something rich and hydrating.
If it’s blotchy and tends to burn easily in the sun, then chances are he has sensitive skin, so soothing products are better suited for him.
MY GROOMING SECRETS
Actor Ben Mitchell (31) plays Dr TK Samuels in TV2’s Shortland Street.
My grooming philosophy is… Keep it simple, slick and masculine, and make sure you’re seductively scented at all times. Don’t spend too much time worrying about these things and always make sure you brush your teeth! Smelling good is high on my list of priorities, and my favourite fragrance is Acqua Di Giò Pour Homme by Giorgio Armani.
The skincare products I can’t live without are… American Crew Classic Body Wash and Moisturising Shave Cream. At work we use the Dermalogica range after we’ve been filming, and that’s always good too.
The must-have hair products I can’t live without are… American Crew Classic hair products – the Daily Shampoo and the Firm Hold Styling Gel are a perfect combo. Luckily, I don’t have to get my hair cut or do my own hair very often, thanks to the Shortland Street makeup department, so I don’t have to think too much about hair details.
My favourite grooming treat is… depending on who’s in the shower with me, of course! or heading down to the Rotorua thermal pools, they’re amazing for your skin and incredibly relaxing. I always feel re-energised after an hour in the pools and make it a must-do when I’m there.
My biggest grooming sin is… Using my razor, even though I know it’s blunt. Bad, bad, bad – and probably slightly dangerous!
The best thing my father taught me about grooming is… My father led by example and always looked good. His philosophy was to make sure you always present yourself at your best. He taught me to make an effort with my appearance, and told me I’ll feel good about myself if I look smart and can hold my head up high.
Related stories
Native ad body.
Native ad body.
Native ad body.
