If you’re celebrating your 29th birthday for the seventh time, make sure your skin isn’t betraying you with these five simple ways to improve your complexion
If you consider your biological age irrelevant when you select 29 on Grindr, you better hope your largest organ is towing the line. While we’re not all genetically blessed with a flawless complexion that never seems to age, there are some simple things anyone can regularly do to keep their complexion clean, fresh and glowing.
Here are five things you can start doing now to get better skin.
1. Cleanse and exfoliate
Don’t neglect your face by simply washing it with soap. Invest in a quality cleanser that won’t dry your skin out and then exfoliate every three days to remove excess skin cells. Over-exfoliating your face will lead to excess sebum production and skin irritation, so if you do feel you need to exfoliate more than once every three days, use a gentler daily exfoliating cleanser.
Cleansers:
Cetaphil is an excellent soap substitute that won’t dry your skin out.
Phisohex is a great antibacterial cleanser ideal for those with acne-prone skin.
Daily exfoliating cleaners:
Aveeno’s Positively Radiant skin brightening daily scrub is perfect for oily skin.
Dermalogica’s daily microfoliant is a rice-based powder that forms a light exfoliating paste when you expose it to moisture (so store it somewhere dry when not in use)
Exfoliants:
Natio’s gentle face scrub is an invigorating exfoliant suitable for all skin types.
Aesop’s Tea Tree leaf facial exfoliant is a powder that you simply mix with your cleanser every third day
2. Moisturise and protect
The harsh Australian sun can damage and weather your skin even through minor incidental exposure, so go for a moisturising sunscreen that ticks two boxes keeping your skin hydrated and protected. If your skin is slightly oily and you’re prone to a shiny face, opt for Dermalogica’s oil clearing matte moisturiser SPF 15.
For a more affordable option, try Natio’s SPF 30+ sunscreen moisturiser.
3. Get a facial
For the ultimate skin refresher that will leave you with a glowing and rejuvenated complexion, treat yourself to a home facial every few weeks with Aesop’s primrose facial cleansing masque. After cleansing, apply it to your dry skin and leave to harden and dry for 20 to 30 minutes. Then wash off. If you’re acne-prone, the chamomile concentrate anti-blemish masque is a must.
If you’re a lover of the more intimate facial, cum is full of protein and a powerful antioxidant called spermine, so relish it for more than one reason! If it’s going anywhere else though, remember to use condoms, lube, PrEP and/or take your HIV treatment medication if you’re living with HIV.
4. See your GP or a dermatologist
If you’re prone to acne or other skin conditions, don’t fall for commercial products that promise you supermodel skin in six minutes, go see your gay-friendly doctor or a dermatologist. They’ll be able to prescribe you tried and tested, and much more affordable products that you can buy over the counter at your local pharmacy.
5. Drink up
One of the most basic things you can do to improve your skin is to drink your recommended two litres of water every day. Hydrated skin is happy skin so be sure to stay well watered.