We’ve put together a list of the biggest mistakes men make when it comes to skin care and nutrition. Being healthy and looking great requires some smarts on your part, so use this list to to get more out of your men’s nutrition and skincare routines.
– Exfoliating after Shaving: Exfoliating should be done before shaving — not after. Exfoliating helps remove dead skin cells as well as unclog pores and prevent ingrown hairs. After shaving, the skin becomes sensitive and should not be exfoliated since this may cause redness and irritation. Use a men’s face scrub to exfoliate before reaching for your razor.
– Going on a Protein-Only Diet: Put that second helping of steak down! Vegetables, fruits and whole grains provide many nutrients that are great for your skin, hair and overall health. These foods also provide much-needed carbohydrates that your body uses to metabolize fat and build muscle. At the very least, consider an antioxidant supplement or men’s multivitamin.
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– Binge Eating after an Intense Workout: Just ran 5 miles? You deserve to celebrate, but make sure that celebration doesn’t involve a fattening meal. Although fitness plays a huge role in weight loss and maintenance, diet is just as important; it’s important to note that we tend to overestimate the amount of calories we burn in a workout, too. Eat a small snack or drink a post-workout supplement, but leave the oversized portions and sweets for another time — or better yet, never. Check out this list of fat-burning foods for men for examples of healthy snacks and meals.
– Picking at Your Pimples: We know it’s hard to resist, but don’t pick at acne. Not only will you spread bacteria, but you’ll increase the risk of permanent acne scars. Opt instead for an effective men’s acne treatment like MenScience Acne Spot Repair. Already popped some pimples? Check out these men’s acne scar treatments that may save your skin.
– Skipping the lotions and creams: Everyone should moisturize, even if you have oily skin. As we age, our skin naturally reduces the amount of essential oils it produces. Keep skin hydrated and young-looking by using a men’s face lotion and men’s body lotion regularly.
– Not getting enough sleep: The National Sleep Foundation recommends between 7-9 hours of sleep a night. … Are you getting enough? A lack of ZZZs is easily reflected in your skin and can lead to under-eye bags as well as other eye-area problems – you definitely don’t want a burnt-out look at work. Read “How Sleep Affects Men’s Health” for more reasons to snooze.
– Not reapplying sunscreen: Excessive sun exposure is a leading cause of premature skin aging. Slap on sunblock 30 minutes before going outside and make sure to reapply regularly. Look for an SPF 30 sunblock with broad-spectrum protection. For more info, check out “Protect Your Skin from Sun Damage.”
– Not Drinking Enough Water: While the exact amount of water we should be drinking has been debated to no end, chances are that you could up your intake. Aside from the very important function of keeping us alive, water also removes toxins from the body and keeps skin from looking dull and worn-out.
– Binge Drinking: The occasional cocktail or beer won’t hurt your waistline, but more than that can start to add up. Alcohol causes you to lose fluids (aka pee more) so you’ll end up dehydrated, which can make your skin look dry. Drink more water to minimize the effects of alcohol on your body and skin. Read “How a Hangover Affects Men’s Skin” for more skincare information.
