Manly moisturiser is ‘a personal trainer for the skin’

[ a series exploring masculinity ]

What is your own beauty regime?
My routine has always been pretty comprehensive. My daytime skincare routine is a face wash, a liquid exfoliant, an anti-blemish serum, an oil-free SPF50 moisturiser and eye cream. At night I use a cleansing oil, a retinol anti-ageing serum, eye cream and moisturiser plus a hydrating mask twice a week. During the day I also wear mineral foundation, concealer and bronzer.

How have Irish men's beauty habits changed in the past 10 years?
Thankfully, the splash of alcohol-laced aftershave just doesn't cut it any more. Men are much more aware of using a proper grooming routine to keep their skin healthy and looking good. Daily cleanser, moisturiser and eye cream are what I see being used – at the very minimum – with my own clients.

What are the most common beauty queries you receive from men? 
The most frequent are about skin congestion. Men's skin is oilier, and pores can become blocked, causing blackheads and blemishes. It generally turns out to be a lack of exfoliation or using the wrong moisturiser for their skin type.

Do ever sense any embarrassment from them? 
Men are happy to ask for advice about skincare and grooming openly, but I do still find that some guys will only go for brands that have a skincare line that's aimed at male skin specifically.

Do many Irish men remain unconvinced about the benefits of moisturiser?
Looking healthy and fit is high on the list of priorities for Irish men these days, and good skin is a huge part of that. There can be a little resistance at the start but I always highlight that moisturiser is the personal trainer for the skin, and that tends to win them over.

Three pieces of beauty advice for men?
1 Scrub before you shave. Use a face scrub to lift and soften bristles. This helps in getting a close shave and minimises the risk of ingrown hairs.
2 If you have a beard, invest in a beard oil. "I love his beard but it's so scratchy!" Trust me, I hear it all the time. Beard oils moisturise and add subtle fragrance to facial hair, leaving it softer.
3 Pick up an eye cream with caffeine in it. This is amazing for after a late night. Caffeine stimulates micro-circulation around the eye and minimises the look of dark circle and puffiness.

In conversation with RÓISÍN INGLE

Book an appointment with the Beauty Style Team on 01-605 6666 or beautystyleteam@brownthomas.ie

If you would like to add your voice to this series email howtobeaman@irishtimes.com