More men than ever are interested in taking better care of their skin & a simple daily ritual of cleansing & moisturising will keep skin looking healthy. Today's men are increasingly aware and concerned about the health and appearance of their skin. Although men may be increasingly aware of how to care for their skin, some factors may be preventing them from doing so. For many men, skin care is a mere afterthought. Beyond the world of shaving their faces, it is rare for a man to devote time to his skin, especially the skin on his face. However, proper skin care is essential for the present and the future.

Skin is the body's first line of defence against sickness, germs and disease. Men should practice a skin-care regimen at least once a day, just as many women do.

A man's skin is approximately 20% thicker than a woman's, and is typically firmer because it's richer in collogen and elastin. However, because of more active sebaceous glands, men's skin tends to be much oilier. It is also more prone to dehydration because of daily or regular shaving, basically, this means you get dirtier. It is very important; no matter what skin type you have, to clean your face every day. Deep cleansing is important. It keeps pores clear, skin healthy and you looking good. As we mature, biochemical changes occur in elastin and collagen, the connective tissues that give skin its firmness and elasticity.

In general, male skin is oilier, with larger pores, a richer blood supply, with an increased a tendency to "sweat" and may require deep cleansing daily Men are less prone to wrinkling than women, . The skin aging process is the same for men and women, but for men it occurs later and is more marked. In a man's skin, the dermis is thicker and richer in collagen, and the epidermis is often more oily. Therefore, it's more resistant than a woman's skin to the effects of the sun and other environmental factors. Around the age of 40 to 50 years, the dermis layer of a man's skin thins, and the level of collagen decreases naturally yet dramatically, causing deeper wrinkles to appear. Just as for women, men can prevent and correct the signs of aging with appropriate skin care.

A man's skin is his first defence against the effects of the sun, climate, and other environmental factors such as air pollution. The skin fulfils essential functions: body-temperature regulation, elimination of perspiration and toxins, and more. A man's skin needs to be protected effectively and daily. Some men don't want to be bothered with too many skincare products. However, starting with a regimen of basics - cleansing, protection, and moisturizing after shaving - is an effective skincare routine. To a man who simply washes his face with soap and water, this may seem like a complicated regimen. However, the benefits of these few simple steps are abundant.

Daily face washing will keep pores unclogged, which in turn can prevent a variety of skin conditions, from spots to ingrown hairs, which are not only painful and unattractive, but can also leave discoloured marks on the skin's surface.

Always warm the face before shaving. This allows the hair follicles to open up 30 percent more. Splashing the face with cold water after shaving closes the skin pores, but avoid using water only or alcohol-based after-shaves, which can dry out skin. Aloe Vera is wonderful as a post-shave moisturiser.

Individuals with oily skin and acne prone skin tend to avoid moisture or oils applied topically to the skin. The use of the correct oils for oily and acne prone skins can be very helpful. Essential oils like lavender and tea tree are naturally antiseptic, active and help heal the skin. Oils mimic our own sebum and will send signals to the skin to even out the over production.  Moisturise according to the needs of the skin. Mature skin types obviously needing more hydration especially around areas prone to wrinkling like the eyes and mouth. Antioxidants A,C and E, and fish oils are highly beneficial to the skin's elasticity and protection from the sun.  Avoid chemical sunscreens that release free radicals into the skin. Mild organic ingredients with an aloe vera base tend to work the best. Essential oils also are very effective in the treatment of sensitive skins such as Lavender, chamomile.

Everyday elements such as the sun and wind can dry your skin to the point that it hurts. To prevent this, wear sunscreen when you plan to be outdoors for an extended period of time. An SPF factor of 15 should suffice. Pick a sunscreen that has aloe and moisturisers in it. After being in the sun, apply a facial moisturiser that contains vitamin E. You can also apply this any time your face feels dry for all skin types. Sunscreen is one of the most important steps in preventing cancer and premature aging.

Although the skin is a man's first defence, it is the last in line to receive nutrients carried by the blood. It therefore receives vitamins and minerals in small quantities. For the skin to play its role as a vital organ effectively, dermatologists recommend using a daily hydrating moisturiser and a well-balanced supply of targeted vitamins and minerals specially adapted to meet the needs of a man's skin.

Lastly, eating a balanced diet and staying active are obviously part of the equation. Double up on the fruits and vegetables, which often contain many anti-oxidants that can help prevent skin damage. Take a multi-vitamin that is rich in anti-oxidants and vitamin E. Do your best to avoid greasy, fried food. Substitute olive oil in place of butter when you cook. It is healthier and, as some claim, will allow your skin to retain its elasticity longer.

Exercise will do more than simply get your heart rate going. It will clear your pores, increase your metabolism, and generally make you feel better about yourself. Sweating allows your inner body to cleanse itself.

Perhaps the easiest and best way to help your skin is to drink plenty of water on a day-today basis. The majority of your body's cells are made of water, and it only makes sense to keep hydrated. Drink at least a couple of litres of water per day. Increase your intake if you are consuming other food or drink that may dehydrate you, such as coffee, soda, and alcohol.

Skin care for men is remarkably similar to that for women. You will need to cleanse and apply moisturiser to your skin every day. Proper basic skin care need not take copious amounts of time. A few minutes a day is all that is necessary.