Why Facials for Men Are a Good Idea

Calling all men—this one is for you. While you may have curated the perfect men’s skin care routine, there are other measures you can take to ensure you put your best complexion forward. One in particular, is a men’s facial. Yes—facials aren’t just for women. Actually, there are types of facials specifically geared toward men to tackle skin concerns that women don’t typically deal with. The fact is, while a lot of skin care can be unisex, there is a way to tailor your skin care routine to meet your needs. Want to learn more? Below, we’re sharing why facials for men are a good idea.

WHAT IS A FACIAL?

While you may be familiar with the term, you might not know what exactly a facial is—and what it can do for your face. A study from the National Center for Biotechnology Information states facial treatments generally involve massaging the face with creams and lotions, steaming with a hot towel or steamer, and applying a face mask with absorbents and astringents. They typically also include cleansing and exfoliation.

What does a facial do to your face? According to the study, benefits include a feeling of freshness and rejuvenation, supple skin, warmth and tightening of the skin, and a delay in the onset of wrinkles.

WHAT DOES A MEN’S FACIAL CONSIST OF?

A men’s facial consists of the same steps listed above—cleansing, exfoliation, massage, creams, steaming, and a face mask. There are many different variations of a facial, depending on your skin goals. Consider it a deeper, more thorough version of your regular skin care routine. One main point of difference is that men’s facials can also help tackle concerns like razor burn and ingrown hairs caused by shaving.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD MEN GET A FACIAL?

Ideally, both men and women should aim to get a facial around every four to six weeks. That said, not everyone can commit to another frequent beauty treatment, so getting a facial four times a year—once for each season—is also a good practice.

HOW TO PREP FOR A MEN’S FACIAL

Now that you know a little bit more about facials for men and their benefits, you’re probably wondering how you can prep for one. Should guys shave before a facial? We’re answering all your questions and sharing just how to prepare for a facial, below.

#1. SHAVE BEFOREHAND

While you don’t need to have a perfect shave, too much hair can get in the way of the different skin treatments that are part of a facial, preventing them from working their magic. That said, if you have sensitive skin, you can get away with skipping shaving the night before since shaving is a form of exfoliating, which can be too much for sensitive skin when combined with professional exfoliation the day of your facial. Just make sure you don’t have too much stubble!

#2. YOU CAN BECOME IRRITATED

As with virtually any treatment, there are potential side effects. This is especially a factor for those with sensitive skin. If you’re prone to having reactions to certain skin care ingredients, be sure to talk to your esthetician beforehand about the treatments they’ll be using. Per the NCBI study, side effects can include irritation, blemishes, and puffiness.

#3. IT’S NOT ALL RELAXING

Since facials are typically a spa treatment, you may think that the process will be relaxing and soothing. While this is the case, for the most part, certain treatments, such as blackhead extraction, may cause a little discomfort, but that isn’t a reason to shy away! Learn more about the process in our article, What You Should Know About Blackhead Extraction.

HOW TO DIY A MEN’S FACIAL

DIY facials allow you to show your skin TLC without leaving home. They’re perfect for when you need a quick dose for self-care, which is a must for everyone. Follow these six steps for an at-home facial for guys.

STEP #1. WASH YOUR FACE

As with any skin care routine, start by giving yourself a fresh, clean complexion. Use the L’Oréal Paris Men Expert Hydra Energetic Extreme Cleanser Infused With Charcoal, which is formulated with charcoal, to wash away impurities and excess oils, leaving your skin looking healthy and refreshed.

STEP #2. EXFOLIATE YOUR SKIN

Next, use a face scrub to slough away dead skin cell buildup and give yourself smooth, soft skin. Apply a small amount of the L’Oréal Paris Pure-Sugar Resurface & Energize Kona Coffee Scrub to your skin using dry fingers, then massage in circular motions with wet fingers. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.

STEP #3. STEAM YOUR FACE

If you want to give yourself a spa-like experience, you can use a facial steamer to steam your face. Alternatively, you can place a warm towel over your face (not too hot!) for a similar, soothing effect.

STEP #4. USE A MASK

Time to pamper your skin! Choose a face mask that suits your skin's needs. If you find that different areas of your skin have different concerns, multi-mask with the L’Oréal Paris Pure-Clay Multi-Mask Clay Tripod Kit.

STEP #5. SMOOTH ON A SERUM

To continue to tackle your skin concerns, treat your skin to a serum. For a hydration boost, use the L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives 1.5% Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum. For a boost in radiance, use the L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives 10% Pure Vitamin C Serum.

STEP #6. MOISTURIZE YOUR SKIN

To finish your at-home facial, you’ll want to apply a moisturizer. If you’re doing your DIY facial in the morning, apply the L’Oréal Paris Men Expert Vita Lift SPF 15 Anti-Wrinkle & Firming Moisturizer as the final step. Giving yourself a facial at night? Use the L’Oréal Paris Men Expert Vita Lift Anti-Wrinkle & Firming Moisturizer.

Next: 3 Skin Care Products Men Should Use, Too