(ThyBlackMan.com) Black men can be very meticulous when it comes to their dress and appearance. Nice haircut, clean shoes and a nicely tailored suit are essentials for most, but when it comes to skin care, they don’t seem to be as particular. They wash their face, they shave and they go about their business.
While men don’t go through the elaborate skin care rituals that women do, there are products you can use and steps you can take that will protect and nourish your skin, keeping it looking younger longer.
Grooming
There are certain skin care products men should have on hand for daily skin care:
• Shaving cream. You’ll want to buy a product that will properly lubricate the skin so the razor blade will glide over it, preventing razor burn. You can choose a shaving cream or gel in pressurized cans, or you can buy shaving 
soap that comes in a small tub and is applied with a brush. Some men believe the brush makes whiskers stand straighter for easier shaving.
• Aftershave lotion. Many men use an aftershave lotion to soothe the skin after shaving. The lotion may contain an antiseptic to prevent infection, a moisturizer or fragrance.
• Moisturizer. Skin tends to dry out as its essential oils diminish with age, but a good moisturizer can help. You might want to choose a moisturizer that contains antioxidants like vitamins A, C and E, which can protect skin cells from aging. Steer clear of creams or lotions with sodium lauryl sulfate, which tends to remove natural oils from the skin.
• Sunscreen. Sunscreen is the best thing you can do to prevent aging of your skin, and it should be applied whenever you expect to spend time outdoors. Some experts even recommend applying sunscreen right after shaving. Make sure it has an SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 15.
A Close Shave
Shaving has hidden advantages—the exfoliation that takes place every time you shave can keep your face looking young and healthy. But if you shave improperly, you can cause razor burn or razor bumps, which form when facial hair cut too short curls back into the skin. To shave properly, follow these steps:
1. Soften your beard. Thoroughly wet your face with hot water. Prior to wetting the beard, you might even want to apply a warm washcloth to further soften hairs.
2. Apply shaving cream. Cover your entire beard with shaving cream. Work it in well to make the hairs stand up and to lubricate the skin.
3. Shave. Use a sharp razor, and shave in the direction the hairs lay. Avoid repeating strokes, and keep your skin relaxed.
4. Rinse. Rinse the remaining shaving cream off your face. Use cool or warm water, as hot water will dry out your skin.
Written By John Williams
