ACNE
If you would like more information about acne, click here
Can the soap/moisturiser I use affect my acne?
In a word, yes. Those who are prone to breakouts should wash their face twice a day with a gentle cleanser that has been formulated for oily or acne-prone skin, as this will keep excess oil under control, without stripping the skin. Remember that over-washing or scrubbing your skin too hard can dry out and irritate the skin, making the acne worse. You should also opt for a dermatologist approved, oil-free moisturiser, as it will not clog your pores.
Can shaving cause spots?
While shaving itself cannot cause acne, not using the proper blade or shaving cream can cause your skin to become irritated, or nicked. Be sure to use a sharp blade and good quality shaving cream such as Gentlemen's Tonic Classic Shave Cream.
Can I outgrow acne?
While 70% of teenagers outgrow acne within four or five years of its onset, for the other 30%, acne may carry on into adult life. There are over 1 million adult men in Britain with acne.
Should I scratch/pop my spots?
Many people believe that popping pimples will help them clear up faster. In reality, doing so could very well make them worse. Squeezing blackheads is a bad idea because it will only cause them to become inflamed. Popping whiteheads will only push the germs further into the skin, resulting in soreness, redness and perhaps even a vicious infection. Furthermore, popping pimples can lead to permanent scarring.
Do pimples leave scars?
They might, but not for everyone. In most cases, the determining factor is the kind of acne from which the person suffers. The average comedones or spots don't usually induce scarring but those with cysts and deep inflammatory papules are very much at risk. In addition to maintaining proper hygiene and not popping spots, adequate treatment is mandatory.
What's the difference between face and body acne?
There is absolutely no difference between face and body acne. Acne can occur anywhere on the body, except on the palm of the hand and sole of the foot, as these are the only places on the body where the skin pores have no hair canal. However, they generally appear on the face, chest, back, neck, arms, and buttocks. Consequently, you can use the same anti-acne gel or lotion on your body that you do on your face.
SHAVING
If you would like more information pertaining to shaving, click here for 'A Guide to that Perfect Shave'
How can I stop razor burn?
Most razor burn is caused due to the skin being too dry before shaving. Always shave after a shower or at the very least, apply a Pre-Shave Oil before you begin. It's very possible that as a consequence of applying too much pressure to the razor as you shave or using one with a dull blade, you may be making matters worse. And the last point is always apply a good quality moisturiser or after-shave to your skin as these products calm down and rejuvenate the skin.
How can I avoid cutting myself when I shave?
First of all, take a look at the detailed guide in our advice section (A Guide for the Perfect Shave) that outline a solid routine. Just a couple of quick hints: use short strokes with a clean, sharp blade and try to heat and soften the skin before shaving.
What is aromatherapy?
Aromatherapy is the art or practice of using essential oils to help treat physical or psychological ailments and to restore a general sense of well-being. The practice of using essential oils for medicinal and cosmetic purposes is at least 6000 years old. Throughout the centuries, ancient civilisations have heralded their numerous benefits. Essential oils are absorbed by the body in several ways: they can be inhaled, massaged into the skin, used in the bath, or blended with skin care and hair care products.
What are essential oils?
Essential oils are volatile and highly concentrated, pure essences extracted from plants, flowers, leaves, roots, woods, barks and fruits. Each essential oil has its own healing property and distinct scent. Despite their name, essential oils are not oily and evaporate almost immediately upon contact with the skin. Unlike synthetic fragrances and perfumes, they are 100% natural and provide many therapeutic benefits.
Is there anything one can do to avoid sweating too much?
Sweating is the body's natural way of regulating its core temperature and is an obvious byproduct of any physical activity. However, some people suffer from abundant sweating which is known as hyperhidrosis and is usually localised in the hands, feet and armpits. Anxiety and nervousness can only worsen the situation. Obviously a good quality deodorant should be considered the first line of defence. If this proves ineffective, you should consult your GP who can prescribe either a course of drugs or iontopophoresis therapy which consists of applying low intensity electric current to the body. If these methods prove ineffective, surgery is the next option by either excising the auxiliary sweat glands or interrupting the nerve tracks and nodes, which convey the signals, thereby stopping the sweating.
What is the best way to control dandruff?
Dandruff can occur for a vairety of reasons from hormonal and seasonal changes (dandruff is most common during the dry winter months) to excessive use of styling products. Try using a good quality, specialised shampoo to combat the onset of flakes. Other measures include assuring that the hair is thoroughly rinsed after conditioning and avoiding tight-fitting hats. Recent studies have linked stress and anxiety to cases of dandruff.
What is the best way of looking after your hands?
The benefits of keeping your hands and nails in pristine condition cannot be understated especially for those involved in services where they are regularly meeting prospective clients or others who are actively pursuing the fairer sex (according to a recent poll, women note the state of men's nails 95% of the time when agreeing to a date). Manicures are becoming increasingly popular with men and Gentlemen's Tonic has a superlative treatment available at its Mayfair establishment. At home, there are a number of things that can be done to look after your hands as well:
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soak your hands in warm water to soften the nails
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clean beneath the nails with a clean metal file
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trim the nails with a clipper to leave a thin white strip at the end
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smooth the edges of your nails using a file (for best results, don't file back and forth but in one direction only)
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gently push back your cuticles using a cuticle stick
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finish using Gentlemen's Tonic Moisturising Hand Balm to keep hands nourished and protected.