From beard oils and anti-ageing essentials, men’s skincare is a multi-billion pound industry with figures showing more than 40% of guys aged 31-45 spend up to 45 minutes preening every morning. But how do you know which products work best? Here are Deborah's top tips.

FIND OUT YOUR SKIN TYPE

Firstly, it’s important to know what kind of skin you have otherwise you may end up spending money on products that won’t have any benefits or even exacerbate any complexion issues you have. Just because your skin is dry or oily to the touch doesn’t necessarily follow that that is your skin type; learning what type you have, and how to look after it, is essential for daily care. For example, dry skin becomes drier if you use rich moisturisers because they tell your skin not to produce oil; equally, over-oily skin gets worse by drying it out. Because most men have combination skin it’s best to opt for light-weight, easily absorbed products that can add hydration to areas most in need.

KEEP IT CLEAN

Because your face is constantly exposed to pollutants and bacteria throughout the day a cleansing ritual morning and night ensures you’re not only removing grime and impurities, but also helping to boost hydration and clear pores. Clean skin means that the active ingredients in your favourite moisturisers and serums are also easily absorbed. To cleanse properly soak your face with warm not hot water and apply a small amount of cleanser with your fingertips. Gently massage in a circular motion, avoiding the eye area, for between 30-60 seconds. Rinse thoroughly and pat, not rub, your face dry with a clean, soft towel.

Try my Cleanse & Foam to improve elasticity levels and balance oil, and reduce T-zone shine.

INTRODUCE A DAILY SERUM

Keep skin in tip-top condition post-shave with a daily serum. Perfect for tackling fine lines and dehydration, serums deliver a potent shot of ingredients directly into your skin because unlike traditional face creams, which sit on the surface of your face, they have smaller molecules so can penetrate the epidermis. Choose one to target your main concern, whether that’s ageing, dryness, broken capillaries or sensitive skin, and due to their high concentration you’ll find a few drops go a long way. 

My SOS Shave Oil protects skin and repairs damage, improving texture and adding nourishment.

OPT FOR ANTI-AGEING PRODUCTS

Just as day follows night, as we age so does our skin and as it does its requirements will change – it becomes less hydrated and you may notice sagging around the jawline, fine lines and discolouration. Over the years, sun exposure, lifestyle factors such as smoking, alcohol and diet, and maybe not having kept up with that daily skincare routine all play their part. You’ll find your skin is crying out for a product overhaul; instead of relying on those essentials you’ve been using for years invest in hard-working, organic ones that are packed with ingredients that repair, tighten and protect your complexion. 

My best-selling M4M Anti-Ageing Moisturiser provides essential nutrients to feed the skin.

LOOK AFTER YOUR EYE AREA

The skin around your eyes is ten times thinner than on other parts of your face and can easily become dehydrated. Because of this it is one of the first areas to show signs of ageing and crow’s feet, laughter lines and wrinkles become more visible, as well as sagging, redness and puffiness. So it’s important to use products that are specifically designed for this area: you only need a tiny amount dotted along the orbital bone and about half an inch under your eyes. If you’re suffering from dark circles, this may indicate that your kidneys need flushing out so plenty of water can be a great help. You may need an extra hour sleep too.

Perk up puffy, tired and dull eyes with my O2 Eye Cream.