Wednesday, November 11, 2020

Top 10 Tips for Healthy Winter

November 11, 2020 0

 

Top 10 Tips for Healthy Winter Skin

Cold, dry air can leave your skin itchy, red, and irritated. Combat dry winter skin with these tips fo

retaining your skin's natural moisture.

Hedy Marks
By Medically Reviewed by 
Last Updated: 

Cold, dry air can leave your skin itchy, red, and irritated. Combat dry winter skin with these tips for retaining your skin's natural moisture.

Top healthy tips for dry skin during the winter months.
When the winter winds blow, here’s what you can do to keep your skin moist and supple.Kate Daigneault/Stocksy

Winter can wreak havoc on your skin — making it dry, itchy, and irritated. And it can feel like there’s no escape: Cold, blustery conditions outside can leave your skin feeling raw, while indoor heat zaps moisture from the air and from your skin.

Even the things that make winter wonderful, such as sitting by a roaring fire, can dry your skin, as the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) notes. (1) And though taking a hot shower might seem like a good way to warm up, hot water dries out your skin by stripping it of its natural oils.

But there are many simple ways to combat the causes of dry winter skin and help keep your skin feeling moist and supple all season long, including some easy changes to your everyday routine. For example, after taking a not-quite-so-hot shower, "blot skin dry and apply a thick moisturizer within a few minutes after bathing to seal the water into the skin," says Linda Stein Gold, MD, a dermatologist at Henry Ford Hospital in West Bloomfield, Michigan.

Here are some other tips to keep in mind when it comes to effective winter skincare, so that you can feel your best all winter long.

Top 10 Tips for Healthy Winter Skin

1. Invest in a Humidifier to Maximize Moisture

Using a humidifier in your home or office will add moisture to dry winter air and help keep your skin hydrated. Run a humidifier in the rooms you spend the most time in, including your bedroom.

2. Lower the Thermostat to Avoid Dryness

When it's chilly outside, what's the first thing you want to do? Crank up the heat! But central heat can make the air in your house even drier. Try setting the thermostat at a cool yet comfortable setting — 68°F to 72°F — to maintain healthy skin.

3. Limit Shower Time and Temperature

It may be tempting to take a long, steamy shower, but your skin will be much better-served with a 5- to 10-minute lukewarm shower (or bath), as the AAD suggests. You should also avoid using excessively hot water when washing your hands — if the water causes your skin to turn red, it’s too hot. Washing your hands in cooler water appears to be as effective at removing germs as warm water and is less irritating to skin, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2) And if you're using a restroom air hand-dryer, use it just until your hands are damp rather than perfectly dry. 

4. Opt for Gentle, Fragrance-Free Cleansers

The wrong soap can worsen itchy, dry skin. For instance, regular bar soaps may contain irritating ingredients and fragrances. Instead, wash with a fragrance-free, moisturizing cleanser or gel. (And do look for products specifically labeled “fragrance-free,” because "unscented" products may actually contain fragrances.) You can also prevent winter skin problems by using less soap overall, so limit your lathering to necessary areas, such as your hands, armpits, genitals, and feet.

5. Modify Your Facial Skin-Care Regimen for the Season

During the winter months, choose cream-based cleansers, and apply toners and astringents sparingly, if at all. Many astringents contain alcohol, which can further dry your skin. When your skin is dry and itchy, the AAD recommends you stop using products that contain alcohol and fragrances in order to help skin retain its natural oils. At night, use a richer moisturizer on your face.

And don’t forget your lips. Applying a moisturizing balm (such as petroleum jelly or another ointment) can help heal dry, cracked lips and keep them from getting chapped, according to the AAD. (3) If, however, your lip product causes a stinging or tingling sensation, try switching to a different product.

6. Moisturize Frequently, Especially Your Hands

Maintain healthy skin by moisturizing after washing up. "It's best to use a cream or ointment in the winter. Lotions are better in warmer, humid climates. And don't forget your hands,” says Dr. Stein Gold. Hand-washing, as the CDC notes, is vital, especially during cold and flu season. But, as Stein Gold points out, "constant washing will cause the hands to take a beating.”

Applying a hand cream after each washing can help, Stein Gold adds. She also recommends wearing waterproof gloves when washing dishes or cleaning around the house.

7. Apply Sunscreen — Even on Gray Winter Days

On bright winter days, snow reflects the sun’s rays — up to 80 percent, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation — increasing your risk of exposure. (4) That means whether you’re out on the slopes, playing in the snow, or just walking through a parking lot on an errand run, it’s just as important to be applying sunscreen in the harsh winter weather as it is in the summer.

And don’t be fooled by darker, dreary days in winter, either. The sun’s harmful UV rays can permeate clouds and still cause damage.

Before you go outside, apply a moisturizing, broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher to all exposed areas of your body.

8. Wear Appropriate, Comfortable, Nonirritating Clothing

Many cold-weather fabrics can aggravate dry winter skin. "Keep wool and rough clothing from directly touching your skin," Stein Gold says. "This can cause dry skin to get irritated and itchy."

Instead, wear light layers made from soft, breathable materials directly against your skin, and then pull on your heavier, warmer sweaters. Be sure to protect your hands from cold winter air with gloves or mittens, remembering to choose a pair that won’t irritate your skin. If you prefer wool gloves, put on cotton or silk glove liners first.

9. Remember to Eat Right and Stay Hydrated

"Sometimes when skin is very dry, it can be helped by foods or supplements that contain omega-3 or omega-6 fatty acids, such as fish oil and flaxseed oil," says Barbara R. Reed, MD, a dermatologist in private practice at Denver Skin Clinic. "For the most part, however, it is important to help the skin moisturize from the outside."

10. Change Out of Wet Clothes Quickly to Avoid Itchy Skin

Wearing wet clothes and shoes can further irritate your skin and cause itchiness. If gloves, socks, and pants become wet, be sure to remove them as soon as possible.

If you still experience dryness, discomfort, and irritation after trying these healthy skin tips, Stein Gold suggests using an over-the-counter, 1 percent hydrocortisone cream. "If you don't see improvement in a few days, talk with your doctor," Stein Gold says. You may need a prescription-strength moisturizer to overcome winter's drying effects on your skin.

Read more
By at November 11, 2020 No comments: Edit

How to Put on and Remove a Face Mask

November 11, 2020 0

 

How to Put on and Remove a Face Mask 

man with face mask

What is a face mask

Face masks are one tool utilized for preventing the spread of disease.  They may also be called dental, isolation, laser, medical, procedure, or surgical masks. Face masks are loose-fitting masks that cover the nose and mouth and have ear loops or ties or bands at the back of the head. There are many different brands and they come in different colors. It is important to use a face mask approved by the FDA.

What is a face mask used for

Facemasks help limit the spread of germs.  When someone talks, coughs or sneezes they may release tiny drops into the air that can infect others. If someone is ill face masks can reduce the number of germs that the wearer releases and can protect other people from becoming sick.  A face mask also protects the wearer’s nose and mouth from splashes or sprays of body fluids.

When should a face mask be worn?

Consider wearing a face mask when you are sick with a cough or sneezing illness (with or without fever) and you expect to be around other people.  The face mask will help protect them from catching your illness.  Healthcare settings have specific rules for when people should wear face masks.

How to put on and remove a face mask

Disposable face masks should be used once and then thrown in the trash. You should also remove and replace masks when they become moist.

Always follow product instructions on the use and storage of the mask, and procedures for how to put on and remove a mask.  If instructions for putting on and removing the mask are not available, then follow the steps below.

How to put on a face mask

  1. Clean your hands with soap and water or hand sanitizer before touching the mask.
  2. Remove a mask from the box and make sure there are no obvious tears or holes in either side of the mask.
  3. Determine which side of the mask is the top. The side of the mask that has a stiff bendable edge is the top and is meant to mold to the shape of your nose.
  4. Determine which side of the mask is the front. The colored side of the mask is usually the front and should face away from you, while the white side touches your face.
  5. Follow the instructions below for the type of mask you are using.
    • Face Mask with Earloops: Hold the mask by the ear loops. Place a loop around each ear.
    • Face Mask with Ties: Bring the mask to your nose level and place the ties over the crown of your head and secure with a bow.
    • Face Mask with Bands: Hold the mask in your hand with the nosepiece or top of the mask at fingertips, allowing the headbands to hang freely below hands.  Bring the mask to your nose level and pull the top strap over your head so that it rests over the crown of your head.  Pull the bottom strap over your head so that it rests at the nape of your neck.
  6. Mold or pinch the stiff edge to the shape of your nose.
  7. If using a face mask with ties: Then take the bottom ties, one in each hand, and secure with a bow at the nape of your neck.
  8. Pull the bottom of the mask over your mouth and chin.

How to remove a face mask

  1. Clean your hands with soap and water or hand sanitizer before touching the mask.Avoid touching the front of the mask. The front of the mask is contaminated. Only touch the ear loops/ties/band. Follow the instructions below for the type of mask you are using.
  2. Face Mask with Earloops: Hold both of the ear loops and gently lift and remove the mask.
  3. Face Mask with Ties: Untie the bottom bow first then untie the top bow and pull the mask away from you as the ties are loosened.
  4. Face Mask with Bands: Lift the bottom strap over your head first then pull the top strap over your head.
  5. Throw the mask in the trash. Clean your hands with soap and water or hand sanitizer.
Read more
By at November 11, 2020 No comments: Edit

Thursday, September 10, 2020

Ultimate Guide for Men's Grooming

September 10, 2020 0

 

The Importance Of Men’s Grooming

First thing’s first — male grooming is important because we men, just like women, are people too.

A daily grooming routine helps to maintain your personal hygiene (something that we hope you already know is essential!) and is also important for keeping you looking and feeling young, attractive, and clean.

There are tons of home-based remedies as well as tried and trusted products on the market that will keep you looking your best with minimal effort. For example, you could keep your skin in tip-top shape without so much as lifting a finger with the SiO For Him FaceLift.

It’s true — SiO’s power patches actually work to repair and hydrate your skin while you sleep. To wake up with the good looks of, say, Jude Law, all you do is apply your patches before bed (or for a few hours during the day while you pound out some video games) and you’re set.

After all, who doesn’t want to be the best-looking, most well-groomed man in the room? Well, we’re here to help you achieve exactly that. In this article, the experts at SiO share the best men’s grooming tips of 2018.

The Ultimate Men’s Grooming Guide

The Perfect Shave

man shaving his face in the mirror

For us guys, facial hair care is a delicate art. You want to try your best to get a close shave that won’t cause razor bumps. To achieve this, we recommend following the routine below:

  1. Take a hot shower, and wash and exfoliate your face and neck
  2. Pat your skin dry, and then apply moisturizer to the area you’ll be shaving
  3. Apply shaving cream (we suggest opting for a “sensitive skin” variety)
  4. Shave with a high-quality razor that has no fewer than three and no more than five blades (you can also opt for a straight razor — but only if you’ve been trained on its use)
  5. Shave in the direction that your beard hair grows (never shave against the grain)
  6. Rinse your face clean with hot water 
  7. Apply aftershave and moisturizer

If you’re looking for an easier option and don’t mind spending a few extra dollars on your shaving routine, visit your local barber a few times a week for a professional shave with a straight razor.

Beard Care

Side profile of bearded man outdoors in city

In 2018, you’ve probably noticed that beards are very trendy. If you’re a guy with more facial hair than the run-of-the-mill stubble, keep in mind how important it is to brush your beard every day.

Use clippers to keep your beard even and clean as you grow it in, and wash it with shampoo, along with the rest of your hair, when you shower. Instead of applying conditioner, use beard oil to soften your beard and increase its shine.

We also recommend using a razor a couple of times each week to shape the edges of your beard to your preferred style.

Eyebrow Maintenance

man plucking his eyebrows as part of men's grooming routine

Invest in a high-quality pair of tweezers and use them to pluck out the hair in-between your eyebrows. You should only need to do this once every couple of weeks. Just keep in mind that the “unibrow” look is definitely not in style.

For a cleaner and sharper look, you’ll also want to pluck any hairs that grow away from your natural brow area. Pluck the hair below your brow more vigorously and regularly than you do the hair above it.

Additionally, use an eyebrow hair trimmer to keep the hair at a nice length (or you can ask your barber to do this). Brush your eyebrows up and out every morning.

Don’t discount the skin around your brows, either. The SiO For Him BrowLift patches smooth and erase all traces of lines from your brow and forehead.

Trusted by docs, SiO’s power patches provide deep hydration and help promote your skin’s natural ability to retain moisture and collagen (in other words, keep it younger-looking and wrinkle-free). After all, what good are awesome brows when the skin around them isn’t?

The Perfect Haircut

back view of man's head while getting his hair cut

Based on your hair’s texture and curl, decide what you want your style to look like. There’s nothing wrong with taking a photo of that look and bringing it to your barber or hairstylist.

To make the most of your haircut, ask for the products you’ll need to achieve that style at home, and don’t forget to visit your barber or stylist once every few weeks for a trim.

Blemish Prevention

man leaning over sink while splashing his face with water

To maintain the clearest, healthiest skin possible, wash your face each morning and night with a facial cleanser. After washing, apply a light moisturizer to your skin (keep in mind that your daytime moisturizer should contain SPF sunscreen).

It’s also crucial to exfoliate up to two times per week to maintain clear skin.

When blemishes do happen, don’t pick at your skin! Instead of ever trying to pop pimples at home, make it a point to visit a dermatologist regularly, and have your blemishes examined for more specific solutions.

If you’ve got a zit, treat it naturally with Benzoyl peroxide. Benzoyl peroxide kills the bacteria that contribute to pimples.

Apply it in and around the affected area with a Q-tip or your hands as best as possible. Sleep with the Benzoyl peroxide on your face for overnight healing.

The Ideal Scent

dark image of man in suit

Wear deodorant every day (please!), but don’t rely on it.

Select a men’s cologne scent that compliments your personal style. For daily use, spray once on your wrist and pat that into your neck.

If you’re going out at night, use an additional spray on your clothing and your chest. Do not use too much – less is always more.

Body Hair Care

man showering as part of men's grooming process

There are a variety of tools to help tame your body hair. The experts at SiO recommend stocking up on a pair of clippers, a nose and ear hair trimmer, a high-quality body razor, and an extended grip for that razor.

It’s best to keep your nose and ear hair as trim as possible – ideally grooming them once per week. Trim or shave your body hair (chest, armpits, back, etc.) to your preference.

You may also opt to get your body hair professionally waxed for a smoother, more even look. If you plan on shaving your body hair, it’ll require more frequent upkeep.

When it comes to your nether regions, very carefully use scissors to trim near your pubic area. Once or twice per week (depending on your preference), use a razor to shape any spots you’d like completely cleared of hair.

Dental Hygiene
head shot of smiling man in gray shirt

Let’s not forget about those pearly whites! Brush your teeth with whitening toothpaste every single morning and every single night — at least twice per day. Floss at least four times each week. Use mouthwash.

Remember to see your dentist for a regular check-up every six months. If you need to, use teeth whitening strips once every few months or so to keep your smile polished.

Whitening strips work on your teeth the same way bleach works to whiten your clothes or your hair. The peroxide in whitening strips bleaches color from your teeth in order to restore their natural white shade.

side profile of man wearing SiO patches to amp up men's grooming routine

And don’t neglect the rest of what makes up your charming smile. Keep wrinkles and creases around your eyes and smile at bay with the SiO For Him Eye & Smile Lift.

These medical-grade power patches provide deep hydration to keep the skin around your pearly whites smooth and wrinkle-free.

Looking Good, Man!

smiling man in denim shirt with hand in his hair

With everything you’ve got to handle throughout the day, don’t let your daily grooming routine be the thing that falls by the wayside. Keep yourself in the best possible shape with this ultimate men’s grooming guide and SiO’s potent power patches.

Read more
By at September 10, 2020 No comments: Edit
Labels: