Getting Into The Skin

Newbie to the skincare industry's beauty boom? We got an expert to help you get started with a basic skincare routine that should hold you in good stead

- Dhara Vora Sabhnani

India is one of the fastest-growing markets in the beauty sector in the world and men are a big part of it. Not only has this led to many international brands making an entry in India, but it has also made companies realise that men are important consumers, too, when it comes to skincare and beauty products. Even actors Idris Elba and Brad Pitt have their own skincare brands today, and are slowly helping change notions of beauty and masculinity. If you have been wanting to jump on the skincare bandwagon, but are confused about what to start with, read ahead.

DIRTY BUSINESS

Your skin has a protective barrier, which is your first line of defence against every external trigger. So, caring for and repairing your skin barrier is extremely important in delaying signs of ageing and making your skin stronger. We need to protect the barrier to retain moisture and prevent any excessive transepidermal water loss. Retaining moisture keeps the skin more hydrated and supple, while a faulty skin barrier allows the skin to get affected by external agents like oxidative stress, pollution and sun rays, says Dr Aakriti Mehra of SkinGenious, Mumbai.

But before you slather creams and serums, you need to know the basic, first step of skincare - cleansing. Male skin is more sebaceous and has a tendency to produce more oil, making it prone to acne and congestion. The absolute basic skincare routine should include cleansing and exfoliation in addition to good hydration and sun protection to keep the skin healthy, Dr Mehra cautions.