Skin care is a subject not typically at the forefront of most men’s minds. But for many, it is something that could use a little attention. So we decided to do the work for all those guys out there who steer clear of the skin care aisle, by asking a local expert, Eric Leonardos, make-up specialist at Jackson Ruiz, for some helpful tips:

aFm: What is the No. 1 product you would recommend for male
daily cleansing?
Leonardos: Use a cleanser that best suits your skin type, whether it be dry, normal or oily. Most skin care lines have these basic types of cleansers.

aFm: What else do you recommend for men who have never had a skin care regimen?
Leonardos: Keep it simple and basic. Use no more than two products: a cleanser and a moisturizer with at least SPF 15. If your skin is really oily then you don’t need a moisturizer. A word of caution for men who use bar soap to wash their faces: bar soap can be damaging, causing over-drying that eventually causes premature lines and aging.

aFm: What are the effects of not using any skin care regimen?
Leonardos: Your skin can be unbalanced, for example. If you are oily you can be extra oily, if you are dry you can be over-dry. Harsh cleansers can damage your skin permanently.

aFm: How quickly will you see results once you begin to care for your skin?
Leonardos: It depends on the individual. But generally speaking, one should see more balance and an improvement in the condition of your skin. You should see some results in anywhere from three to six weeks.

aFm: Do men really need to worry about skin care?
Leonardos: Definitely, as it can make a complete difference in what your skin looks like in the future. The general rule I live by is: what you put on your skin now will affect how your skin looks in seven years.

aFm: How do you take care of your skin?
Leonardos: I use a toner and moisturizer daily. I also use treatment products like masks and spot treatments for acne, as well as eye creams and preventative products. I also get facials on a regular basis. Facials are important because they clean the pores and massage the skin.

Be sure to check back in the September issue of austin FiT magazine, as the editors give a few of Leonardos’ recommendations a try.