Moisturizing may be a basic skin care step but it has the power to transform the skin. No matter the weather, skin type or length of the skincare routine, using a moisturizer for men is a step that never budges. Mastering this post-cleanse step requires a very nuanced understanding that one can gain only over a period of time through trial and error. So don’t worry if you’re overwhelmed. Here are our top 4 tips on how to apply moisturizer for men like a pro for healthy, nourished and glowing skin.
How To Glow Up Your Skin With Perfect Moisturizer For Men
1. Know The Different Types of Moisturisers
Lotion: These are mostly thin and runny in consistency. Some lotions are water-based for quick absorption, while others contain enriching oils for deep nourishment. While the former is good for hot, humid weather, the latter is ideal for cold, arid climates
Cream: Face creams are the most traditional kind of men’s moisturizer and have a relatively thicker or whipped consistency. These can be used in multiple ways, mostly as a means to restore dry, flaky skin.
Gel: Facial gels gradually became popular, especially among those with naturally oily/acne-prone skin. This is due to the lightweight nature of the product, which hydrates but doesn’t clog the pores. The most commonly used gel-based extract is aloe vera extract, which has anti-inflammatory properties. Rose extracts and cucumber are also ingredients that are often found in facial gels.
Gel-Crème: Gel-Crème is a hybrid formulation that has the benefits of both a cream and a gel. These are great for all skin types and can be applied during most weather conditions owing to their consistency, that is neither too lightweight nor too heavy.
Facial oil: Not many may immediately think of facial oils when we mention moisturizer for men. However, facial oils are great alternatives that work just as well. They’re rooted in traditional Indian skincare practices that saw the usage of nalpamaradi and kumkumadi oils, which are potent ayurvedic blends for skin healing and nourishing benefits. Almond, carrot seed, avocado and coconut are other kinds of carrier oils that work great as nighttime moisturizers.
Sleeping masks: These have become mega-popular in recent years. A sleeping mask is a type of nighttime facial moisturizer for men that is applied and kept overnight. They’re usually made with rich, potent natural and active ingredients to repair the skin overnight without external interruptions.
Day cream with SPF: Day creams, again, can differ in consistency. Most day creams have sun filters and commonly have an SPF of 15 to 30. For better results, apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 to 50 as a final step for maximum sun protection
2. Identify Your Skin Type
Dry skin: Dry skin often experiences tightness, dehydration and flakiness due to the lack of natural oils which keep the skin conditioned. That’s why using a lotion-based or thick cream-based moisturizer is suggested, as they deeply nourish the skin, strengthen the moisture barrier, regulate natural oil production and improve skin elasticity.
Oily skin: If you’ve always thought “oily skin doesn’t need a moisturizer for men”, it’s time to change that stance. The truth is that oily skin needs a moisturizer as much as any other skin type. But it’s important to choose the right one to avoid the pesky greasiness. For this skin type, it’s best to go for a water-based lotion or an oil-free gel moisturizer that won’t feel greasy and heavy yet will leave the skin feeling nourished, lightweight and hydrated.
Sensitive Skin: Sensitive skin is most prone to redness, inflammation and skin flare-ups. A lotion-based face cream or facial gel that is fragrance-free and has minimal ingredients would be an ideal choice. This will nourish and soothe the skin.
3. Look For Effective Ingredients
Panthenol: Panthenol can also be referred to as the best of worlds as they do the job of both a humectant and an emollient. As we learned before, humectants draw in moisture, but emollients are a moisturizing base that smoothes and softens the skin. Along with locking in hydration, it maintains healthy moisture levels in the skin. Panthenol can be found in quite a few face washes and is suitable for all skin types.
Vitamin B3: Vitamin B3 is commonly known as either niacin or niacinamide. This is a versatile ingredient that targets a host of skin concerns across skin types. From balancing oil production and fading acne scars to soothing inflammation, vitamin B3 does it all.
Pro ceramides: Ceramides are a type of fatty acids that help build and strengthen the natural moisture barrier to protect the skin. As you age, the amount of ceramides in the skin decreases, making it lose elasticity and luster. If you want a face cream with ceramides, ensure it has pro-ceramides, as they’re formulated to penetrate through the layers of skin to maintain the skin’s natural barrier and prevent moisture loss.
Hyaluronic acid: Hyaluronic acid is a humectant that draws moisture from its surroundings. It has the ability to hold 1,000 times its weight in water. That’s why it’s always recommended to apply hyaluronic-based moisturizers to damp skin so that the ingredient has a healthy source to draw moisture from. Not only does it lock in hydration but also makes the skin plump and supple and gives it a healthy glow.
Vitamin E: One of the most omnipresent ingredients in skincare, vitamin E is widely known as a powerful antioxidant that maintains the skin’s natural moisture levels while protecting it from oxidative damage due to sun damage, free radicals and pollution. If you’re a beginner and don’t quite know which moisturizer for men to choose, go for a basic one with vitamin E.
Kumkumadi: Want a moisturizer where natural extracts take center stage? Inspired by ayurveda, kumkumadi oil refers to a potent blend of herbs, the major one being kesar or saffron. This potent blend is best used as a nighttime treatment to get rid of hyperpigmentation and oxidative stress. You can either use kumkumadi oil on its own or add a few drops to your face cream for an extra boost of moisturization.
4. Follow Pre-Moisturising Steps For Better Results
Makeup/Sunscreen Removal: Many makeup and sunscreen products are water-resistant. So, using a face wash alone isn’t enough, as it won’t be able to break them down. Use a makeup remover like micellar water or cleansing balm to completely emulsify and dissolve the makeup.
Cleansing: The next step is to use a mild face wash that gently lifts away impurities, residual makeup and excess sebum. This will unclog the pores and leave the skin fresh and ready for applying moisturizer for men. Additionally, make sure to use a face wash that suits your skin type.
Exfoliating: Exfoliate or scrub your face to get rid of excess buildup of sebum, texture and dead skin cells. This step should be followed only once to twice a week (or depending on your skin type) so that you don’t strip the natural oils from the skin.
