The Age Of Men’s Care

 

Traditionally, men’s grooming products were nearly nonexistent. The idea of masculinity was intertwined into every aspect of a man’s identity, including how he groomed. Most products that did aim towards a male audience used overt ‘masculine’ used terms to draw more men to their product without the irrational stigma surrounding men purchasing simple bodily and skincare items for themselves, such as a mens beard grooming kit. Thankfully, men’s self-care products are beginning to gain a new level of traction. A recent survey taken during June 2017 stated 57% of males in the U.S from 30-59 years old reported using shampoo every day. The age-old idea of self-care being solely feminine is dead and gone, and men can use their newfound freedom to divulge into a level of pampering they’ve never experienced before.

The Changes In Men’s Care

For years men have been rejected the use of beneficial care products for fear of their masculinity being questioned, over something as simple as beard maintenance or anti aging skin care. Which raises the question, why is being unkempt associated with male’s aesthetic? The level of toxic masculinity ingrained in almost all men teach them to associate self-care as unnecessary. Recently, the concept of masculinity regarding self-care has immensely changed. Most men’s purchases include at least one to two grooming items, ranging from daily face wash to mens deodorant, but the most popular items deal with accessories for shaving and hair products. It’s a fact that guys take pride in their beards and hair as if it were their child—the men’s beauty isle dedicates rows of men’s products to beard care and styling products for mens hair to appeal to their primary concern. The reason for the influx of beard care is due to the current male aesthetic, which heavily focuses on thick facial hair—according to statistics, 39% of males in the U.S have facial hair, a 15% increase in the last 5 years, and 18% of men reported using beard care products daily. Mens beard grooming has become a lifestyle for many because there is a need to continually perfect their ideal appearance that typically focuses on exuding masculinity. The concept of masculinity can take many forms, mens beard grooming is a balance between the self-care and masculine undertones.

Tips For Men’s Care

It’s important for men to identify their skin type to understand the kind of beard care and maintenance products that best fits their skin sensitivity.

Sensitive- Products may sting or burn after use, be sure to carefully look at labels to determine if the product is beneficial for sensitive skin types.

Normal- Most products won’t cause any type of reaction. Normal skin types will appear clear and non-sensitive.

Dry skin- Identify mens beard grooming products that provide extra moisture for flaky or rough skin types. Many ingredients in men’s products benefit dry skin. It’s best to include a good shaving oil to prevent discomfort.

Oily skin- Many men products aim towards those with shiny and/or greasy skin. Read labels carefully to ensure products don’t have minerals that overly hydrate skin.

Combination skin- Combination skin is the most common skin type, a mixture of oily and dry patches. Be sure the label specifies ‘all skin types’ to protect skin from harsh products.

Make sure to wash your face: The basis of skin care is washing your face daily, especially after exercise or any strenuous activity that works up a sweat. Be sure not to use regular soap, because of the harsh chemicals and bar soap ingredients contains. Use cold water to prevent wrinkles.

Focus on your shaving technique: Shaving is an essential factor in how skin reacts to specific shaving accessories and shaving creams. Everyone’s skin is different, meaning some products will be beneficial while others won’t. Before shaving, make sure to wet your skin and beard and/or mustache to soften the hairs, then use a good shaving cream to moisturize your skin. Afterward, change the shaving blade and apply a good mens after shave lotion to finish off.

Moisturize!: Make sure to incorporate an excellent mens exfoliating face wash to your daily routine to reduce fine lines and make the appearance of your skin brighter. A great moisturizer can make any skin appear younger, and uplift your spirits from a fresh face.