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Contrary to stereotypes, men are increasingly prioritizing hygiene. No one wants to be known as the person with unpleasant odors. Check out more images related to men's health.
©iStockphoto.com/OSTILLMany assume men aren’t concerned with hygiene products, but this is far from true. While floral scents might not appeal to everyone, avoiding bad breath and body odor is a universal priority. The global market for men’s skincare and hygiene products, valued at around $20 billion in 2009, is expanding quickly and is expected to hit $28 billion by 2014 [source: Packaged Facts].
Whether it’s grooming, skincare, or oral care, these five products are essential. Let’s start by discussing skin types.
5: Body Wash for Your Skin Type
Rather than sticking to your usual choice, select a skin cleanser tailored to your skin type. Start by determining whether a bar of soap or a liquid cleanser suits your skin best.
For those with oily skin, opt for water-based, soap-free cleansers. If your skin tends to be dry, pick mild cleansers enriched with soothing and moisturizing ingredients like glycerin, urea, mineral or plant-based oils, and petrolatum. For sensitive skin, choose fragrance-free, soap-free cleansers, and avoid preservatives like parabens, which can trigger allergies.
4: Floss
Maintaining good oral hygiene not only ensures a bright smile and fresh breath but may also lower your risk of heart disease. Research shows that individuals with periodontal diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis face twice the risk of atherosclerosis, a condition involving artery hardening. Flossing is especially effective, as it removes plaque that leads to gum disease, inflammation, and cavities.
Dental professionals advise flossing at least once daily, but nearly half of Americans neglect this practice, with 10 percent never flossing [source: Freeman]. For optimal results, move the floss up and down between each tooth, forming a C-shape around every tooth. Ensure you reach below the gumline to eliminate hidden plaque.
Alongside regular brushing, flossing and tongue scraping can decrease gum bleeding by approximately 38 percent, with noticeable improvements in just two weeks [source: American Academy of Periodontology].
3: Shaving Cream
While it might seem convenient to use face soap or body wash as a substitute for shaving cream, shaving cream is far better for your skin's health.
Shaving cream, gel, or lotion forms a protective barrier between your skin and the razor, minimizing blade friction and reducing shaving-related issues like shaving bumps and razor burn. Opt for a rich gel or cream with moisturizing properties, and allow it to sit on your skin briefly to soften hair before shaving.
Additionally, be cautious. Products containing alcohol-based ingredients can dry out your skin, and menthol may trigger allergic reactions.
2: Antiperspirant or Deodorant
Americans invest over $1 billion annually on products to combat sweat and body odor [source: Grossman]. This is a massive industry tackling a significant challenge—the human body has roughly 2.6 million sweat glands and can produce 1 to 3 liters of sweat in just one hour in hot conditions [source: Fort Worth Star-Telegram]. To address odor, wetness, or both, antiperspirants or deodorants (or a combination) are essential. Antiperspirants temporarily block sweat pores, preventing perspiration, while deodorants mask odor with fragrances and reduce odor-causing bacteria on the skin.
Antiperspirants use aluminum-based compounds to block sweat glands, and these aluminum ingredients may (or may not) be associated with dementia. Some studies suggest a link between aluminum and Alzheimer's, while others consider such connections inconclusive. If you're worried about the potential risks of aluminum salts, consider switching to an aluminum-free deodorant.
1: Moisturizer
Just as selecting the right body wash depends on your skin type, choosing a moisturizer should align with your skin's specific needs. Those with normal skin have a wide range of options, but if your skin is atypical—like most people's—you’ll need to be more selective.
Let’s address a common myth: even if you have oily or acne-prone skin, moisturizing is essential. Opt for water-based, noncomedogenic products that won’t add excess oil or clog your pores.
For those with dry skin, thicker, oil-based moisturizers or those containing hydrating agents like glycerin or petrolatum are ideal. If your skin is sensitive, choose gentle formulas free from harsh chemicals, such as anti-aging additives, and avoid fragrances, which often cause irritation or allergies.
Apply moisturizer after showering or washing your hands, ideally while your skin is still slightly damp. For extra benefits, consider a moisturizer that also includes sunscreen protection.
