Gentlemen: if you’re on a quest for soft, smooth, great looking skin, then read on. Many men either neglect their skincare routines, or invest in a slew of heavily scented, chemical-laden products which can cause irritation, dryness and pore-clogging residue.
The good news is, it is extremely simple to take care of your skin naturally, and look your absolute best as a result.
1. Stay hydrated
If you are not drinking enough water, not only does the inside of your body suffer, your skin will appear dull, dry and somewhat withered. Drinking at least eight glasses of water a day is key. Also, ditch the sports drinks – all you need is water and some hydrating veggies to balance your electrolytes.
2. Get a great organic soap
The additives, artificial fragrances, dyes and whirlwind of other chemicals found in conventional soaps can leave skin feeling dried out, and if you have sensitive skin, it can cause full-on irritation. Don’t expose your skin to this chemical cocktail – get a bar of organic soap for a gentle, effective cleanse. A pure castile bar or liquid is a great option.
Or, you could always make your own, it’s easy.
3. At least once a week, exfoliate
To remove dirt and oil from your pores and rejuvenate your skin, it’s worth it to exfoliate. Once a week is great, though twice a week is ideal. However, don’t spend money on a scrub, simply mix a teaspoon or so of organic, extra-virgin coconut oil with about half a teaspoon of coconut sugar. Gently rub into your skin for a couple minutes before you wash your face. To save time, do it in the shower.
4. Never underestimate the power of coconut oil
Speaking of organic coconut oil, it is the perfect moisturizer – for your face, lips and body. It’s mild, absorbs into your skin quickly and does not clog your pores. In fact, it possesses antibacterial properties which can even help clear up a breakout, and also offers mild protection against the sun. Along with being a great daily moisturizer, it can soothe your skin after you shave.
5. Shave smart
Those conventional shaving creams and foams can be very aggravating to sensitive skin, and introduce a world of chemicals no matter what your skin type. To make your own luscious, effective shaving cream, combine equal parts coconut oil and shea butter, and add a dollop of extra virgin olive oil.
As far as aftershave, it doesn’t get much better than raw, organic apple cider vinegar. Fill an empty bottle halfway with apple cider vinegar, and add filtered water to the top. Apply after you shave. Along with refreshing and toning your skin, apple cider vinegar can help to battle breakouts, and reduce the appearance of scars.
6. For cracked hands, it’s shea butter to the rescue
When talking about skincare, we can’t forget the skin on your hands. If you have rough, dry hands that require some serious moisture, get a tub of pure shea butter. Shea butter, which comes from the nut of the African shea tree, can also help to ease a sunburn, and may help clear up a nasty case of dermatitis.
7. Don’t forget – you are what you eat
If you have oily skin, or experience acne often, and don’t know why, take a look at your diet. If you are eating a lot of processed or junk foods, it can really take a toll on your face, as well as your entire body. Getting rid of the junk and sticking to whole, natural, preferably organic foods, including lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, is just what your skin needs to look great.
8. Get off the couch
While it is a given that exercise is a crucial part of good health in general, you may not have considered that it is also an integral part of great-looking skin. Sweating releases toxins from deep inside pores, and also improves circulation, which leads to a healthy glow.
– The Alternative Daily
