iStyle: Fancy facial

Pots and potions to perfect your skin aren’t just for ladies. There’s an array of solutions for men too, says Lee Holmes

If you work hard and play even harder, stealing time for even a basic skincare regime can become a bit of an issue. Nevertheless, a tardy attitude to your face will and – be in no doubt about this – eventually catch up with you. All that’s really needed is a speedy few minutes’ prep at the start of every day.

So, if you spend most of your time in the great outdoors you’ll need to maximise the amount of rough and tumble your skin can endure. A decent sunscreen with a high SPF factor is a boon here and should be slapped on with an almost evangelical abandon; everyone knows by now that sun damage is one of the first signs of premature ageing.

Even if you’re stuck indoors, a willy-nilly approach to skin care won’t do either. Staring at a computer screen in an office environment can be a veritable minefield for your epidermis; air con, harsh lighting, bad diet and stress all take a toll on sensitive skin. What’s needed is a hydrating moisturiser that works on both blemishes and uneven skin tones. And any undue neglect of your well-earned laughter lines is foolish behaviour too – the skin around the eyes is the most delicate and therefore needs the most attention.

In fact, hydration should be your watchword when it comes to your face, more so if you spend an inordinate amount of time at 35,000ft. Whether first class or coach, air travel is the scourge of skin proving that a good moisturiser is a necessity rather than a luxury. Lay off the booze and drink nothing stronger than water; nobody wants to wake up after a long haul flight looking like Keith Richards.

However, even a fool knows that you’re not going to find the secret of eternal youth in a tube of moisturiser. But, armed with a few tried and tested products, your little bit of grooming savvy will go a long way.