If you are an African American man, you have probably noticed that your skin has a tendency to feel dry if not properly moisturized. Pseudofolliculitis barbae, or razor bumps, is another condition that affects African American men. Because your hair is curly, the shaved ends tend to grow inwards toward the skin after shaving, causing inflammation. Scarring and hyperpigmentation may also rear their ugly heads, making skin care a crucial part of your daily routine.
Step 1
Apply a thick layer of shaving cream to your face prior to your daily shave. Using a moisturizing shaving cream will help keep your skin soft and smooth. Use a sharp razor for each shave, which will help prevent painful, itchy ingrown hairs and razor bumps.
Step 2
Shower in warm water instead of hot. Hot water can rob your skin of moisture, making it feel dry and itchy. Applying a moisturizer to dry skin can make it feel suppler.
Step 3
Exfoliate during your shower. Rub your skin with a loofah or shower puff and an exfoliating body wash designed specifically for men. Dead skin cells that build up on the surface of your skin can give an ashy appearance. Sloughing off the dead skin cells will brighten your skin.
Step 4
Protect your skin from the harmful rays of the sun if you will be spending time outdoors. Although your skin may already be dark, African American men are not immune to skin cancer and wrinkles. A sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher will protect your skin.
Step 5
Visit your dermatologist's office if you are experiencing hyperpigmentation. Hyperpigmentation appears as dark spots on the skin, usually the result of scarring from acne outbreaks, injuries or burns. Your dermatologist can recommend a retinol product or kojic acid to fade the hyperpigmentation.
Tips and Warnings
- Incorporate leafy green vegetables and raw fruit into your daily diet. Drink at least eight 8-oz. glasses of water every day and exercise for at least 30 minutes per day. Lifestyle changes such as these will help keep your skin healthy inside and out.
- Do not shy away from a skin care regimen. Skin care is not just for women. In fact, moisturizing your skin and applying sunscreen will help keep your skin healthy and reduce sun damage.
Things You'll Need
- Moisturizing shaving cream
- Sharp razor
- Moisturizer
- Loofah or shower puff
- Exfoliating body wash
- Sunscreen
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