Skincare DOs and DONTS for Spring/Summer 2012

2:39 pm Contributed by JW

Caring for your skin is a year long process, but even more so during the summer and winter months where the weather is harsher on the skin. Summer is when the skin tends to produce a whole lot more of oil. Hence, daily cleansing, weekly exfoliation and a few other skin cares are important rituals during this season.

Practice the habit of cleansing every day in summer to avoid oil from accumulating and solidifying on your skin. Clogged pores can cause some nasty consequences. However, avoid using any deodorant soap on your face. These soaps may contain harsh ingredients that your skin may be sensitive to. L'Oreal Men Expert Hydra Sensitive Cleansing Foaming Cream is the perfect choice for sensitive skin. It gently cleanses and helps reinforce the skin's natural resilience that will leave your skin feeling soft, smooth and perfectly cleansed. $14.90 from Amazon.

Exfoliating sloughs off dead skin hence do it at places where your razor doesn't reach. However, exfoliation should not happen on a daily basis. Your skin needs recovery time in-between exfoliations. Pay attention to the cleansers you use because some cleansers also act as mild exfoliates.

Another important point in skin care during this hot season is to not over-shave. Shaving produces micro-cuts and shaving everyday will cause your skin to work overtime as it combats repairing itself and protecting itself against harmful UV rays. Summer is all about being outside and overstressing your skin can wreak havoc. Fusion ProGlide Clear Shave Gel by Gillette is the perfect product for a more precise shaving experience. The transparent and non-foaming shave gel gives you a clear view of the hair you are shaving and the gel contains lubricants for incredible shaving comfort. $8.98 from Amazon.

Excessive sun exposure is unhealthy to the skin. Overexposure can develop serious skin diseases. Remember to constantly use sunscreen for your skin and reapply them whenever you are sweating or in water. Ultra Defense Sunscreen from Banana Boat contains Vitamin E while offering advanced protection without drying out the skin.

Don't forget to care for your lips too! Winter is not the only season that can be tough on your lips. NIVEA for Men Replenishing Lip Balm is specially engineered to provide long lasting protection without leaving a visible residue. This SPF 4 lip balm is enriched with Vitamin E, fragrance-free and helps protect against the sun and wind. You can get this must have item from Amazon at $17.49.

Caring for your skin is just as important for men as they are for women. Be smart about your skin and you'll have the promise of good and healthy skin all year long.