Grooming
A no-nonsense skincare routine
Three steps every day, one active ingredient when you need it, and a test that tells you what your skin is reacting to.
Most men don’t need ten products. They need three, used every day, and to stop using whatever is irritating their skin.
Start with an allergy test
Before buying anything new, find out what your skin reacts to. A patch test, arranged through your GP or a dermatologist, checks your skin against common contact allergens such as fragrances, preservatives and other cosmetic ingredients.
Irritation, redness and some breakouts can be a reaction to something you put on your face every day, from shower gel to aftershave. Once you know what it is, read labels and remove it. A patch test won’t explain every spot, since hormones and genetics play a part, but it removes a lot of guesswork.
A patch test checks for common contact allergens over 48 hours.
Morning: three steps
Evening: two steps
Cleanse to remove sunscreen, oil and the day’s dirt, then moisturise. If you train in the evening, shower and cleanse straight after.
Add one active, slowly
Habits that do more than products
Change your pillowcase twice a week. Keep your hands off your face and clean your phone screen. Shave with a sharp blade, with the grain, and replace blades often.
When to see someone
If your acne is painful, persistent or leaving marks, see your GP. Prescription treatments work where over-the-counter products don’t.
General guidance only, not medical advice. Speak to your GP or a dermatologist about persistent skin problems.
