- Nigerian men erroneously think they do not need to have a skincare routine
- They just as exposed to the harsh sun, stress, pollution and humidity as women who take their skincare more seriously
- Here are seven skincare tips to help men get healthy skin
When it comes to looking and feeling good, skincare isn’t just for women. Nigerian men face their own unique skin challenges, it could be the harsh sun, heat, or pollution from the busy city life.
However, having healthy skin doesn’t require expensive products or hours in front of the mirror. With just a few simple, easy-to-follow steps, you can keep your skin looking fresh and healthy, and avoid issues like dryness, acne, and razor bumps, no matter your lifestyle or budget.
Here's how you can start taking care of your skin.
7 skincare tips for men
- Cleanse your skin daily
You don’t need fancy products to keep your skin clean. Start by washing your face twice a day, morning and night, with a mild cleanser or soap. Avoid using harsh bar soaps that dry out your skin. Look for a simple face wash or gentle soap that cleans without stripping your skin of its natural oils. If you have oily skin, choose something designed to control oil and prevent breakouts. After washing, pat your face dry with a towel instead of rubbing.
- Moisturise
A good moisturiser is a must. Nigerian weather can be unpredictable, dry harmattan days or humid heat, both can affect your skin. Moisturising after washing helps keep your skin hydrated and prevents dryness or flakiness.
For men with oily skin, don’t skip this step! Use a lightweight, oil-free moisturiser that won’t clog your pores. For those with dry skin, a thicker cream might work better, especially during the harmattan season. Shea butter is a great natural option for dry skin.
- Use sunscreen
This might sound strange, but yes, black men need sunscreen too. The sun in Nigeria is strong, and UV rays can damage your skin over time, causing dark spots, ageing, and even skin cancer. A sunscreen with at least SPF 30 will protect your skin from harmful rays. Apply it every day, especially if you spend a lot of time outdoors. Look for a sunscreen that doesn’t leave a white residue and feels lightweight on your skin.
- Watch your beard and shaving routine
For men who grow beards or shave regularly, this is crucial to keeping your skin healthy. Using a good shaving cream or gel helps soften the hair and reduces irritation. Always use a clean, sharp razor to avoid razor bumps, commonly known as pseudofolliculitis barbae, which affects many African men with curly hair. If you have a beard, wash it regularly with a mild beard shampoo and apply a beard oil to keep it soft. After shaving, use a soothing aftershave balm or moisturiser to calm your skin.
- Drink water and eat well
What you put into your body shows up on your skin. Drinking enough water helps keep your skin hydrated and glowing. Eating a balanced diet with fruits and vegetables, particularly those rich in vitamins like oranges, spinach, and nuts, supports skin health. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like fish and walnuts, help reduce inflammation and keep your skin looking healthy.
- Exfoliate gently
Exfoliating helps remove dead skin cells, dirt, and oil that clog your pores. You don’t need to do this every day, once or twice a week is enough. Use a gentle scrub or natural exfoliant like sugar mixed with honey to keep your skin smooth and refreshed. Don’t scrub too hard to avoid irritating your skin.
- Rest and relax
Your lifestyle also affects your skin. Not getting enough sleep or being stressed out can show up on your face. Aim for at least seven to eight hours of sleep per night to give your skin time to repair itself. Managing stress through exercise or relaxation techniques like deep breathing can also help keep your skin clear.
Taking care of your skin doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. With these simple steps, you can maintain healthier skin, no matter your budget or daily routine. Start small, be consistent, and over time, you’ll notice the difference. Your skin will thank you.
Natural Skincare: These 7 fruits will boost your skin health
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported on seven fruits that could provide the necessary nutrients for healthy skin that are affordable and effective.
These fruits would help consumers achieve a beautiful and healthy skin. Among them are orange, mango, watermelon, pawpaw and apples.