Choosing the right facial cleanser for men
The use of facial products is a topic that is often discussed in conjunction with women’s skin care and beauty. Very little attention is paid in this regard to men’s skincare and grooming, which is why most men often face a dilemma when it comes to choosing skin care products. Between the many options available in the market, picking a single one is a tough task indeed.

What is the primary function of a facial cleanser?

• Unlike what is commonly believed, facial cleaners are not meant for women alone.
• A facial cleanser helps remove dead skin and unclog pores for both men and women.
• This helps reduce the onset of acne and leaves the skin looking fresh and healthy.

Does acne-prone skin for men require special facial cleansers?

• Yes, special cleansers are required for men who have an acne-prone skin. Acne may strike at any age and leave the skin feeling itchy and uncomfortable, especially if dirt and grime are allowed to settle on it.
• Using the right facial cleanser may help unblock pores and reduce overall inflammation that is caused by acne.
• The best facial cleansers for acne-ridden skin will have at least one among the following three ingredients—glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and benzoyl peroxide. These ingredients help clean skin pores, remove dead cells and bacteria, and reduce inflammation without drying out the skin.

Are there any particular components to look out for?

• Dry and sensitive skin benefit from moisturizing ingredients such as aloe vera, milk, and charcoal.
• Oily skin is best cleaned with products that contain almond, coconut, and clay.
• Combination skin is a mix of dry and oily patches. A charcoal-based face cleanser goes best with this type of skin.
• For a man having a normal skin type, a gel-based cleanser works best in summers and a heavier, cream-based cleanser works best in winters.

Are there any things to avoid while choosing a facial cleanser?

• Avoid ingredients such as parabens, sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), sodium laureth sulfate (SLES), and formaldehyde.
• Avoid products that are heavily scented or which contain synthetic colors. If the ingredient list states FD&C or D&C, it indicates the presence of synthetic colors.
• Do not opt to use a facial cleanser meant for women. This is because men have larger pores with more collagen that requires specifically-formulated skin care products.

How often should you use a facial cleanser?

• While most facial cleansers state you need to use them at least twice a day, in reality, the usage required varies from person to person.
• The ideal times to use a facial cleanser are just after coming back indoors after a long day outside or after sweating heavily. This is when the skin pores are blocked and need maximum cleansing.
• Do not use a cleanser as soon as you wake up in the morning. This is when your skin is naturally hydrated and cleansing it washes off the natural oils.
• Overusing a product never helps. Even the best facial cleansers should not be used more than twice daily. If there is a need to wash the face more than twice a day, use plain water.

Why is it important for men to use facial cleansers?

• Most men use soaps to wash their face. These soaps are harsh and strip the skin off its natural moisture and may end up leading to dry skin that causes an unpleasant shaving experience.
• Using soap to wash the face also upsets the natural pH balance.
• Using the right facial cleanser will help prevent signs of aging, reduce inflammation and acne, and keep the skin free of irritation caused by shaving.
• Using a facial cleanser is also a good part of male grooming and brings about a noticeable improvement in the overall quality of skin health.