A man’s face is his calling card. It’s the first thing that people see when they meet him, and it’s what they’ll remember long after he’s gone. That’s why taking care of your skin is essential, and that starts with using the proper face wash.
Looking after your face is just as important as looking after the rest of your body. You need to make sure that you are using the best face wash for men to keep your skin looking healthy and clear. With so many different products on the market, it can be challenging to know which one is right for you. Our mission here is to provide you with a guide to discovering the best face cleanser for men. We will also explore our favourite product on the market, Seven Potions Face Wash. So, whether you are looking for a new cleanser or just want to learn more about this category, read on.
What is Face Wash
Face wash is a type of cleanser that is specifically designed for use on the face. It is typically made with gentler ingredients than soap, which is why it is often recommended for people with sensitive skin and those looking to avoid dryness and irritation. In addition, since face wash is generally less drying than soap, it is also a good choice for people with dry or combination skin.
The origins of face wash are somewhat murky, but we can better understand how the modern product came to be by looking at the history of cleansing and hygiene along with the evolution of soap.
A Brief History of Soap
Though we take it for granted today, soap is actually the product of centuries of human ingenuity. According to research, in early times, cleansing was done by using a piece of bone or stone to scrape the skin clean. This was often done during ceremonies and rituals. Cleansing the skin this way was thought to be very important to maintain good health and hygiene. Then, later civilisations discovered that plant materials and water could effectively be used for cleansing. This resulted in improved hygiene and overall health for the people. But it wasn’t until the invention of soap that cleansing became a more widespread practice.
According to clay tablets dating to around 2000 BC, soap-making may have first been developed by the ancient Sumerians in Bronze Age Mesopotamia, a region we now know as southern Iraq. As far back as 5,000 years ago, they began using the resin of coniferous trees to create a soap-like substance. This early soap was mainly used for cleaning textiles. However, the first evidence of soap being used for personal hygiene comes from the Phoenicians, who began making soap around 600 BC. Their recipe consisted of tree ash and animal fat, which were boiled together to create a substance that could be used for both washing clothes and cleaning the body.
The Roman legend of saponification also dates back to this period and is actually the origin of our modern wordsoap. The story goes that soap was discovered near Mount Sapo, a location associated with burnt animal sacrifice. When these burnt animal sacrifices were made on Mount Sapo, the mixture of melted animal tallow (fat) and burnt ashes made its way to the banks of the Tiber River. The result was a thick mixture that, when applied to beautiful Roman garments, resulted in dirt removal like they had never seen before.
Soap-making became an established industry in Italy, Spain, and France by the 7th century. They were ideal centres for this art, as they had necessary ingredients on hand like olive trees. But after the fall of Rome, the Middle Ages saw a decline in personal hygiene practices across Europe. Though regular bathing still remained staples in Japan and Iceland, it wasn’t until the 12th century that the English began to adopt regular soap-making and bathing habits once again. Next, the 15th century saw soap-making become a routine chore in the American colonies. And finally, in the 17th century, bathing and hygiene finally became staples once more, though soap stayed a heavily-taxed luxury item into the 1800s.
The most critical turning point in the history of soap was in 1790, when French surgeon and chemist Nicolas Leblanc discovered the process of turning salt (sodium chloride) into soda ash (sodium carbonate). Leblanc’s cheap, efficient, and simple method is heralded as one of the most important industrial-chemical discoveries of the 19th century. Unfortunately, due to the French Revolution and confiscation of his factory, Leblanc was unable to profit from his discovery. But it quickly became the basis for large-scale soap production and has remained the standard ever since.
From Soap to Face Wash
The last notable change in soap-making chemistry and processes occurred during World War I and II when a shortage of animal and vegetable fats drove chemists to seek out new, synthesized ingredients. This was the birth of synthetic detergents, which are practically synonymous with soap today. However, they aren’t exactly the same thing. And to better understand the difference, we should take a quick look at how soap is made.
Soap is created through a process called saponification, which is when fats or oils are combined with an alkali to produce soap and glycerin. The type of fat used (animal or vegetable) and the type of alkali (lye or potassium hydroxide) determine the properties of the soap. For example, animal fat creates a more rigid bar of soap with more lather, while vegetable fat creates a softer bar with less lather.
Saponification is a two-step process. First, the fats are combined with the alkali to create what’s called “triglyceride.” This molecule consists of three fatty acids attached to a glycerin molecule. Then, in the second step, this triglyceride is combined with water and shaken or stirred to complete the saponification process and create soap.
Glycerin is a by-product of saponification, and it’s often removed from commercial soaps and used in other products like moisturisers or shampoos. However, handmade soaps usually retain glycerin, which is why they’re often considered more gentle and moisturising.
The main difference between soap and synthetic detergents is that detergents don’t go through the saponification process. Instead, they’re created by combining petroleum-derived chemicals with sulfuric acid or other corrosive materials. This process is much cheaper than saponification, resulting in a more stable product that can be formulated with specific properties. For example, detergents can be made to produce more lather or be more gentle on the skin. And this is an important aspect when it comes to face washes and facial cleansers because you want something that will be effective at cleaning your skin without being too harsh.
Modern Face Washes and Facial Cleansers
Face wash is a type of cleansing product that’s designed to remove dirt, oil, and other impurities from the skin. It’s typically used as part of a daily skincare routine and can be applied using your hands, a washcloth, or a sponge. Face wash is usually a liquid, gel, or foam that can be applied to damp or dry skin. It’s typically massaged into the skin for 10-20 seconds before being rinsed off with water.
Dermatologists recognize two categories of face washes, also known as facial cleansers. They are alkaline soaps and synthetic detergents, also called syndets, which we previously discussed. Generally speaking, syndets are preferred because they are less likely to damage your skin as they do not cause the protein in your skin to break down as much. This means less skin irritation and dryness for you. And it is in this category that most, if not all, face washes fall. In fact, many cleansers are now soap-free because of the drying effect that soap can have on the skin.
Jumping off the discovery of syndets, many cosmetic manufacturers began producing special facial cleansers and face washes from the 1950s onward. As a result, there are now a plethora of options available, designed for various jobs such as deep cleansing, exfoliating, or simply washing away the day’s dirt and grime. And with such a wide range of choices available, it can be tough to decide which one is right for you.
Seven Benefits of Using Face Wash
Women have been using face wash for generations as part of their daily beauty routine. But what about men? Although it may not be something that most men are accustomed to, using face wash can have several benefits.
1. Face wash removes dirt, oil, and other impurities from the skin.
Daily life puts you into contact with a lot of dirt, oil, and other impurities. From dust in the workplace to pollution on city streets, it’s no wonder that your skin can feel dirty and look dull. And while your body is good at getting rid of some of these on its own, face wash will help remove the ones that your body can’t. Washing your face with a face wash can help to remove these impurities, leaving your skin feeling clean and healthy.
2. Face wash reduces the appearance of pores.
A gentle facial cleanser designed for men’s skin and warm (never hot) water can help make your pores appear smaller. That’s because clean pores are less likely to become clogged. And clogged pores can make them appear larger. Face wash can also help remove dead skin cells, which, when left, make pores look more prominent.
3. Face wash helps to prevent acne.
Acne is caused when dirt, oil, and dead skin cells clog your pores. Face wash can help to remove these impurities and reduce the risk of acne breakouts. However, you should ensure that you use a face wash with high-quality, natural ingredients to avoid irritating your skin. In addition, irritated skin can be more prone to breakouts, so it’s crucial to find a face wash that suits your skin type.
4. Face wash hydrates and moisturises the skin.
A good men’s face wash will help to hydrate and moisturise your skin, two important steps in any skincare routine.
- Hydration is all about replenishing the skin’s moisture levels. This is important because the skin can become dry and irritated if it doesn’t have enough moisture.
- Moisturising, however, creates a barrier on the skin that prevents water from evaporating. This is important because it helps to keep the skin hydrated for longer.
5. Face wash can reduce the signs of ageing.
From the everyday grind to exposure to the elements, it’s no wonder many men start to see the signs of ageing prematurely. However, fine lines and wrinkles don’t have to be inevitable side-effects of growing older. By incorporating a men’s facial cleanser into your daily skincare routine, you can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and keep your skin looking vibrant and youthful.
High-quality men’s facial cleansers that incorporate top-shelf ingredients are designed to deeply cleanse the skin, removing dirt, oil, and other impurities that can clog pores and lead to the formation of fine lines and wrinkles. In addition, face wash for men can help to stimulate collagen production, which helps to keep skin looking firm and elastic.
6. Face wash keeps skin healthy and free from infection.
As a man, you face many challenges throughout the day. You’re out in the elements, exposed to pollution and allergens, and your skin comes into contact with all sorts of dirt and grime that you may not even be aware of. Whether it’s from a keyboard in the office or a steering wheel on your commute, all of this can lead to a build-up of bacteria on your skin.
That’s why it’s important to start and end your day with a face wash designed specifically for men. A face wash will remove all of the build-up from your day or the night before and help keep your skin healthy and free from infection. It’s an essential step in your daily routine and will pay dividends in the long run.
7. Face wash soothes and refreshes skin.
Not only does a good face wash remove dirt, oil, and sweat from the skin, but it also helps to soothe and refresh your complexion. Some key ingredients in a face wash for men are hardworking hydrators, such asCocoyl proline, and elements with anti-inflammatory properties, likeCucumis sativus fruit extract. These components work together to cleanse the skin and reduce redness and irritation. In addition, face wash for men may also contain antioxidant-rich ingredients which help to protect the skin from free radical damage. Using a face wash with these powerful ingredients can keep your skin looking and feeling its best.
Choosing a Face Wash
If you’re wondering how to choose the ideal face wash for you, the answer is simple: know your skin type. Whether you have dry, oily, or sensitive skin, there’s a face wash out there that’s designed specifically for you.
If you have dry skin, look for a face wash that contains hydrating ingredients like glycerin or pro-vitamin B5. These ingredients will help to replenish the skin’s moisture levels and leave your complexion looking and feeling hydrated.
If you have oily skin, look for a face wash with exfoliating properties. Face washes with salicylic acid or lactic acid can help remove excess oil and dead skin cells from the skin’s surface, reducing the risk of breakouts. In addition, these face washes can help to unclog pores and prevent the formation of blackheads.
If you have sensitive skin, look for a face wash that contains soothing ingredients like chamomile or green tea. These ingredients will help to calm and soothe the skin, reducing redness and irritation. In addition, avoid face washes with harsh chemicals or fragrances, as these can further irritate the skin.
And if you’re unsure what skin type you have, you can do some research to find out. Once you know your skin type, you’ll be able to choose a face wash tailored specifically for you and your needs. But if you still have doubts, opt for Seven Potions Face Wash, formulated for various skin types and needs. It’s a versatile face wash that’s gentle enough for everyday use, and it will leave your skin feeling clean, refreshed, and hydrated.
How to Use Face Wash
Whenever testing a new product, especially a face wash or facial cleanser, it is a good idea to patch test the product first. While using high-quality products that use natural ingredients is an excellent way to reduce the risk of irritation, it’s still possible to have an allergic reaction to even the most gentle ingredients.
To patch test a product, simply apply a small amount of the product to a small area of skin, such as the inside of your elbow. If you experience redness, itching, or swelling in the area, discontinue use of the product and consult a doctor or dermatologist.
If you don’t experience any adverse reactions, you can go ahead and use the face wash as directed. Here are some simple instructions on how to use a face wash:
- Wet your face with warm water. This will help to open up your pores and prepare your skin for cleansing. However, avoid using hot water because it can dry out your skin.
- Apply a small amount of face wash to your fingertips and massage it into your skin in a circular motion. Be sure to avoid the area around your eyes, as this is delicate skin that can be easily irritated.
- Rinse your face with warm water and pat your skin dry with a clean towel.
If you have Seven Potions Face Wash, you can use it twice daily and immediately after excessive sweating due to physical activity or on hot days. This way, you can be sure that your skin is always clean and free of dirt, oil, and sweat.
Other Facewash FAQs
How often should I use a facewash?
The simple answer is: as often as you need to. Nowadays, there are all sorts of advice telling us how often we should be washing our face — once a day, twice a day, three times a day — and it can be confusing to know what to do.
The truth is that there is no definitive answer because everyone’s skin is different. For example, if you have dry skin, you may only need to wash your face once a day; if you have oily skin, you may need to wash your face multiple times a day. And if you exercise regularly or work a job involving dirt and grime exposure, you may also need to wash your face more often.
Ultimately, it’s up to you to figure out what works best for your skin. Start by washing your face once a day and see how your skin responds. If you find that your skin is still feeling oily or dirty at the end of the day, you can increase to twice-daily washings, once in the morning and another in the evening before bed.
The best thing to do is to listen to your skin and wash it as often as you feel you need to. If your skin feels dry or tight after washing, then you may be washing too often or scrubbing with too much vigour. If your skin feels oily or greasy, then you may not be washing often enough. Trust your instincts and wash your face as often as feels right for you.
How do I know if a facewash is right for me?
The best way to know if a facewash is right for you is to read the label and ingredient list carefully. For example, if you have sensitive skin, look for facewashes labelled “for sensitive skin” or containing ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, cucumber, or green tea, which can help to soothe and calm the skin.
If you have dry skin, look for facewashes that contain hydrating ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid. And if you have oily skin, look for facewashes labelled “oil-free” or “non-comedogenic,” which means they won’t clog your pores.
You can also pay attention to the texture of the facewash. If you have sensitive skin, look for a creamy or gel-based formula that won’t be too harsh on your skin. If you have oily skin, look for a foaming or gel-based formula that will help to remove excess oil without stripping your skin of its natural moisture.
Finally, always patch test new products before using them. This means applying a small amount of the product to a small area of skin, such as the inside of your elbow, and waiting 24 hours to see if you experience any redness, itching, or swelling. If you do, discontinue use of the product and consult a doctor or dermatologist.
What are some common mistakes people make when using facewashes?
One of the most common mistakes people make when using facewashes is not rinsing long enough. You should always rinse your face for 30 to 60 seconds to ensure that all the product has been removed from your skin. Avoid hot water, which can strip your skin of its natural oils, and opt for lukewarm or cool water instead.
Another common mistake is using too much product. A little goes a long way with facewashes, so start with a pea-sized amount and increase as needed. However, applying too much facewash to your skin can cause irritation, dryness, and redness.
Finally, people often forget to follow up with a moisturiser after washing their face. This is especially important if you have dry or sensitive skin, as facewashes can strip your skin of natural oils and leave it feeling dry and tight. Always follow up with a good-quality moisturiser to help restore hydration to your skin.
Can a man use a woman’s face wash, and vice versa?
If you’re thinking about reaching for your girlfriend or wife’s face wash, think again. Men’s and women’s skin is different, so it’s important to use a face wash specifically formulated for your gender.
Men’s skin is thicker than women’s, so it can handle more potent ingredients. Men also have larger pores, which can become clogged more easily, so they need a face wash that can deep clean and unclog pores. In general, men’s face washes are designed to tackle more oiliness, dirt, and sweat.
That being said, there are some unisex face washes on the market that can be used by both men and women. These face washes tend to be more gentle and hydrating, making them ideal for people with sensitive skin.
Thanks to Seven Potions, you don’t need to worry about where you will find the best face wash for men or any other premium men’s grooming essentials. We’ve got you covered with our wide selection of high-quality, affordable products.
Can I use facewash to clean my beard?
No, this isn’t a great idea. The hair of your beard is designed to be coarse, so using a facewash on your beard can strip it of natural oils and leave it feeling dry and brittle. Instead, opt for a beard wash or shampoo designed specifically for beards. Then, follow that with a beard conditioner to further hydrate and protect your beard.
Can I use a face wash if I have facial hair?
Yes, of course. Anyone can use face wash. But remember that the face wash is for yourface, and you should avoid getting it in your facial hair, including your beard and moustache. If you have a big beard or lots of facial hair, you’ll simply use less face wash than someone who is clean-shaven.
Where should I store my face wash?
Most men store their face wash in the shower. This makes sense since you’re already wet, and adding face wash to your routine is easy. But there are a few things to keep in mind if you store your face wash in the shower.
First, ensure the face wash is stored out of direct sunlight. Sunlight can break down the ingredients in your face wash and make it less effective. Second, be sure to keep the lid on tight so that water doesn’t get into the bottle and contaminate the face wash.
If you don’t want to store your face wash in the shower, find a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight to keep it. For example, a medicine cabinet or drawer works well.
More Tips for Keeping Your Skin Healthy and Clean
Now that you know more about face washes, here are a few additional tips to help you keep your skin healthy and clean:
Moisturise your Skin Regularly
In addition to washing your face regularly, you should also moisturise your skin. Moisturising helps lock in hydration and keep your skin supple and smooth. It can also help to prevent fine lines and wrinkles. When choosing a moisturiser, look for one that is non-comedogenic and suited for your skin type. Apply the moisturiser immediately after showering or cleansing your face for best results. Then, gently massage it into your skin using circular motions. Finally, allow the moisturiser to absorb fully before applying sunscreen or other products. Following these simple tips, you can keep your skin looking its best all year round.
Use a Good Quality Shaving Cream When Shaving
If you’re keen on healthier, cleaner skin, the products you use when shaving are essential to consider. A good quality shaving cream will help to protect your skin from razor burn and irritation. It will also soften hair follicles to provide a close, comfortable shave. Look for a shaving cream that is rich in lubricants and glycerin. These ingredients will help to soften your facial hair and reduce friction.
Choose the Right Shaving Razor
Another important factor to consider when shaving is the razor you use. A sharp, clean razor will give you the closest shave possible without causing irritation or nicks. Double edge safety razors are ideal because they provide a close shave while minimising the risk of cuts or razor burn. If you use a cartridge razor, be sure to change the blades frequently. Dull blades can cause irritation and lead to ingrown hairs because they tug at the hair follicle instead of cutting hairs off cleanly.
Use Pre-Shave Oil When Shaving
Pre-shave oil is a product that is often overlooked but can make a big difference in the quality of your shave and the health and appearance of your skin. Pre-shave oil helps to soften your hair and prepare your skin for shaving. It also provides an additional layer of protection between your razor and your skin, which in turn helps to reduce razor burn, irritation, and nicks.Pre-shave oil is a perfect choice for men with sensitive skin. Simply massage a small amount of oil into your beard before applying shaving cream.
Exfoliate Two to Three Times Per Week
Exfoliating is an important part of any skincare routine, and men should exfoliate two to three times a week for best results. Regular exfoliation helps to remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and prevent ingrown hairs. It also provides a closer, smoother shave by creating a more even surface. In addition, exfoliation can help improve the skin’s overall appearance by reducing wrinkles and increasing cell turnover. For all these reasons, every man should make exfoliation part of his regular skincare routine.
Avoid Excessive Sun Exposure and Use Sunscreen When Outdoors
UV radiation is present all year round, even on cloudy days, so it’s important to take steps to protect your skin. Excessive sun exposure can cause premature ageing, sunburn, and increase your risk of skin cancer. Fortunately, there are simple steps you can take to reduce your risk. First, avoid excessive sun exposure by seeking shade when possible and wearing protective clothing. Second, use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 to help block UV rays. Finally, apply sunscreen generously and reapply it every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming or sweating. These are precautions that every man should take to ensure the health and appearance of his skin.
Stay Hydrated and Eat Healthy Foods
For better skin health, it is important to drink plenty of water and eat healthy foods that help keep your skin hydrated from the inside out. When your skin is adequately hydrated, it looks and feels softer, smoother, and more elastic. In addition, well-hydrated skin is better able to protect itself from environmental stresses, such as sun damage and pollution. While top-quality skincare products will hydrate your skin from the outside, focusing on hydration from the inside out is another excellent way to achieve and maintain long-term skin health. So, make sure to drink plenty of water daily and include plenty of healthy fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet. Your skin will thank you for it.
Face Wash for Men: The Final Word
There you have it—a complete guide to face wash for men. By following the tips outlined above, you can ensure that your skin stays healthy and looks its best. So, don’t wait any longer. Instead, start incorporating these tips into your skincare routine today. Your skin will thank you for it.
