Fine Lines

6 ASCP Fine Lines An increasing number of men are enjoying the benefits of facials and body treatments in spas and salons. Men now comprise almost 50 percent of spa clientele, according to the International Spa Association. Rather than seeking out spa services to enjoy a luxurious, relaxing atmosphere, men are seeking efficiency, professionalism, good results, and limited downtime. Feeling inspired to make a spa appointment? An esthetician can recommend treatments that incorporate effective ingredients that will immediately provide visible benefits, as well as lessen the appearance of ongoing skin conditions such as excess oiliness or skin irritation from shaving. MAN-FRIENDLY INGREDIENTS The best part about seeking the help of a licensed skin care professional is that they are knowledgeable about the key ingredients that help to immediately improve the visible appearance of their skin. Here are a few you may want to become familiar with. AHA and BHAs: Alpha hydroxy acids, or AHAs, are a group of organic compounds such as glycolic acid (from sugar cane), lactic acid (from sour milk), malic acid (from apples), citric acid (from citrus fruits), and tartaric acid (from grapes). Concentrations of AHAs as low as 5–10 percent have been found to help promote skin exfoliation and create a smoother texture. Salix alba (willow bark extract), extracted from the white willow tree, is a salicylic acid (a beta hydroxyl acid that is keratolytic) that helps reduce oil buildup in the sebaceous glands, which in turn helps reduce the appearance of pore size. This also helps with mild exfoliation of dead skin cells to reveal a more youthful complexion. by Lydia Sarfati Men can benefit from professional skin care services and effective ingredients Men Have Skin Too! It's true that men and women are not equal when it comes to valuing their own personal appearance— personal appearance is actually more important to men! According to a study published in the medical journal Body Image, satisfaction with overall appearance was the third strongest predictor of overall life satisfaction in women, behind satisfaction with their financial situation and their romantic partner. For men, appearance came in second as a predictor of life satisfaction, after financial situation. 1 According to the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 61 percent of male respondents were somewhat to extremely likely to consider a cosmetic procedure. And more proof that stereotypes and gender barriers are being broken down: cosmetic procedures are not just for aging boomers. Millennials and Gen Z (born between 1996 and 2010) are the largest group embracing the idea, with the goal to maintain their youthful appearance instead of combating signs of aging later. Of the 31 percent of men surveyed who are extremely likely to consider having a treatment done to look better, 58 percent were 25–34 years old, while 34 percent were 18–24 years old. 2

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