When working with male clients who have beards, it's crucial to emphasize the significance of a thorough skincare routine. Beards can conceal various skin issues, such as acne or irritation, making early detection challenging. Regardless of your client's beard thickness, length, age, or freshness, it's essential to guide them in selecting skincare products tailored to their underlying skin type—whether it's oily, dry, sensitive, balanced, or a combination of these factors. This personalized approach ensures effective care beneath the beard for optimal skin health.
Step 1: Wash the face (including the bearded part)
Direct your attention beyond the forehead and eye area—ensure that your cleansing massage extends deep into the beard, reaching the skin underneath. Don't forget to include the neck in this process. This technique effectively loosens any dirt, oil, or dead cells that might be trapped at the roots, promoting a thorough and beneficial cleansing routine for the skin beneath the beard. The gentle formula of our Skin Balancing Cleansing Gel works on all skin types and won’t overdry skin.
Step 2: Exfoliate OR shave
As an esthetician working with male clients, it's important to highlight the benefits of chemical exfoliation in preventing issues like ingrown hairs, acne, and uneven skin texture. Our Glycolic 10% Exfoliator does wonders for unclogging pores and loosening ingrown hairs. However, it's crucial to advise against double exfoliation, especially when incorporating shaving into the routine.
If your clients plan on shaving specific areas, such as the face or neck, recommend scheduling any exfoliating treatments, such as a chemical peel, at least 24 hours later to avoid over-exfoliation.
For blade shaving, stress the importance of using a lubricant like cream or foam—never just water or shaving on dry skin. Regardless of the shaving instrument, guide clients to go in the direction of hair growth, avoiding shaving against the grain. This approach helps prevent the development of ingrown hairs and ensures a safer and more effective shaving experience.
Step 3: Moisturize
It's essential to stress the importance of moisturizing all parts of the face, including the bearded area. Hydrating the skin not only helps prevent acne but also reduces the likelihood of dandruff, irritation, and itchiness.
Just as with face wash, guide your clients to massage their moisturizer deep into the beard hairs, ensuring it reaches the underlying skin. Additionally, emphasize the application of lotion to the rest of the face and neck for comprehensive skincare. This approach promotes overall skin health and addresses specific concerns related to the bearded area.
Step 4: Apply sunscreen - yes, even with facial hair!
While thick beards may provide some natural shade, it's not a free pass to skip SPF entirely in that area. However, stubbly skin, as well as the rest of the face and neck, requires proper sun protection.
In the morning routine, advise your clients to generously apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to all exposed areas, including the beard, stubble, face, and neck. This ensures comprehensive sun protection for overall skin health, regardless of facial hair thickness.
In conclusion, catering to male clients with facial hair requires a thoughtful and specialized approach from estheticians. Recognizing the unique challenges posed by beards, such as potential skin issues and grooming considerations, is essential.
A comprehensive skincare routine that includes proper cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection, tailored to individual skin types, is fundamental. Estheticians should navigate chemical peels and exfoliation with care, considering the impact on both skin and facial hair. Additionally, addressing inflammation under the beard requires a gentle touch and targeted solutions. By understanding the nuances of treating male clients with facial hair, estheticians can create a customized and effective experience, promoting optimal skin health and grooming satisfaction.