SOLUTIONS TO COMMON SKIN PROBLEMS

Let’s face it… your face is your best asset.  Unfortunately, most of us aren’t blessed with perfect skin — most of us have at least one issue to deal with.  Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.  This article contains simple Solutions to Common Skin Problems.  Combine these tips with a solid daily mens skin care routine and you’re face will look great!

Acne

Acne is a cronic inflammatory disease of the oil glands. When the hair follicle is filled with excess oil and dirt, a blackhead forms and causes a blockage at the mouth of the follicle.

This causes irritation and often leads to the development of pus-filled pimples. The treatment for mild acne is to reduce the skin’s oiliness by application of cleansers morning, noon and night. Regular exfoliation can also be helpful. Creams containing Benzoyl Peroxide or salicylic acid can help prevent acne. For over-the-counter treatments, Clean & Clear Clear Advantage Acne Spot Treatment works well. Persistent or severe acne should always be treated by a dermatologist.

Ingrown Hairs

These appear as small bumps, most often on the face scalp. Poor shaving and cleansing of the skin can cause the hair to curl over within the follicle instead of exiting the skin. Ingrown hairs are prevented by proper cleansing of the skin and proper shaving techniques (for more on shaving, click the “Shave” at the top of this page). For many men, especially ethnic men, shaving with a clipper rather than a blade can minimize ingrown hairs by leaving them long enough to prevent them from growning back into the follicle. Persistent problems with ingrown hairs should be treated under the advice of a dermatologist.

Psoriasis

This is an inflammatory skin disease which commonly appears on the knees, elbows, and scalp. The cause of Psoriasis is unknown and it is not contagious.  The lesions are round, dry patches covered with coarse, silvery scales. Psoriasis can be a difficult problem and should be treated by a dermatologist.

Razor Bumps

Highly common among African American men, razor bumps occur when curly hair is cut close and growns back into the skin. The best treatement for razor bumps is to let the beard grow out and shave less. Proper shaving techniques can also prevent razor bumps. Jack Black Clear Complexion Razor Bump and Acne Treatment is a great product to reduce razor bumps and clear the skin.

Razor Burn

A hot, red irritation of the skin caused by poor shaving techniques (most often excessive shaving and poor blade lubrication). Lab Series Skincare for Men Razor Burn Relief Ultra is a good option to help relieve razor burn.

Dry Skin

Some soaps are laced with moisturizer, and for some men they work just fine. But the surest way to moisten your skin after washing it is to apply a moisturizer such as Baxter of California Daily Moisturizer. For dry skin, choose a cream, which is the thickest formulation. For normal skin, reach for a lotion, which is lighter and less oily.

Oily Skin

10 dos and don’ts from dermatologists

Although oily skin can clog pores and lead to increased acne breakouts, oily skin also has many benefits. Oil helps preserve the skin, and people with oily skin tend to have thicker skin and fewer wrinkles. The key is to strike a balance between having too much oil and maintaining your skin’s natural moisture.

To help control oily skin, The American Academy of Dermatology offers the following tips:

1. DO wash your face every morning, evening, and after exercise. While washing, resist the temptation to scrub your skin – even to remove makeup. Scrubbing irritates your skin, which can make it look worse.

2. DO choose skin care products that are labeled “oil free” and “noncomedogenic.” This means that products that have these labels – including cleansers, moisturizers and makeup – won’t clog your pores or cause acne.

3. DO use a gentle, foaming face wash. Many people believe that they need to use a strong face wash for oily skin in order to dry out their skin. However, using a face wash that is too harsh can irritate your skin and trigger increased oil production. Instead, look for a mild, gentle face wash.

4. DON’T use oil-based or alcohol-based cleansers. These can irritate your skin.

5. DO apply moisturizer daily. Although you have oily skin, it is still important to apply moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated. To save time and protect your skin from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays, look for a moisturizer that also contains a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.

6. DO wear sunscreen outdoors. Sunscreen helps prevent sun damage that could lead to wrinkles, age spots and even skin cancer. To prevent acne breakouts, look for sunscreens that contain zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, and do not use sunscreens that contain fragrance or oils.

7. DO choose oil-free, water-based makeup.

8. DON’T sleep in your makeup. Always remove all makeup before going to sleep.

9. DO use blotting papers throughout the day. Gently press the paper against your face and leave it on for a few seconds to absorb the oil. Don’t rub the paper on your face, as this will spread the oil to other areas.

10. DON’T touch your face throughout the day. Although it’s tempting to touch your face, doing so can spread dirt, oil and bacteria from your hands to your face. Only touch your face when you’re cleansing, moisturizing or applying sunscreen or makeup, and make sure your hands are clean first.