Solve Your Skin Problem

Excess oil, dehydration, fatigue, sensitivity and stress have left your skin feeling irritated, and looking lacklustre and mucky. These could be the result of working late nights, being out in the sun too long or having a poor diet. Save your skin with these steps.

1. Prime Your Skin

After cleaning, using a toner to helps to re-balance your skin's pH level and assist in the penetration of other treatment products. Aesop B & Tea Balancing Toner ($47 for 100ml, #B1-50 Ngee Ann City, Telp: 6737-6332) is alcohol-free and contains Vitamin B5 and Green Tea, which contain antioxidants.

2.  Control Oily Skin

Get out of the sun. "Over several years, sun exposure may increase your skin's oil production, clogging your pores," says dermatologist Dr.Adnan Nasir. Furthermore, solar rays also cause your skin to become dehydrated. Use an oil-controlling moisturizer after washing your face. Try Kiehl's Ultra Facial Oil-Free Gel Cream ($48, #B3-54 Ion Orchard, Telp: 6509-8941), which helps your skin stay hydrated, while keeping oiliness at bay.

3. Tame Sensitive Skin

One of the culprits that cause skin inflammation, researchers found, is a diet high in carbohydrates. They believe increase insulin can cause this. "Processed foods could be another factor," says nutritionist Alan Aragon. Jojoba seed oil has anti-inflammatory properties that help to calm irritated skin. Try Skinc Men Active Moisturiser ($98 for 50ml, #B3-66 Ion Orchard, Telp: 6222-7428) for sensitive skin. It includes jojoba seed oil that comes in a light textured water-based gel.

4. Revive Tired Skin

Lack of sleep causes your skin to become dehydrated, giving it all a dull, sagging appearance. "Get more sleep.This can significantly flight the effects of stress, which can also cause under-eye circles," says dermatologist Dr.Dennis Gross. use a moisturizer with Vitamin C to revive your skin. "Applying vitamins directly to the skin is at least 20 times more potent than ingesting a pill," Dr.Gross adds. L'Oreal Men Expert Hydra Energetic Multi-action 8 ($21.90, Watsons, www.watsons.com.sg) contains Vitamin C and Caffeine to help perk up tired skin.

5. Slow Down The Effects Of Aging

Natural aging causes a loss of elasticity and wrinkles in your skin. "Antioxidants - such as Vitamin A, C and E - and peptides help prevent fine lines, promote collagen growth and project your skin," Says Dr.Gross. "Also, moisturizers that contain hyaluronic acid brings water from the atmosphere into your skin, so it will look plumper and firmer." Menscience Anti-Aging Formula ($125, www.whathewants.com.sg) comprises hyalironic acid, peptides, and Vitamin E among its wrinkle-fighting ingredients.

Source: Men's Health