BEAUTY

5 Products Every Man Needs For Healthy Skin Glow

Published

6 months ago

July 7, 2024

Skincare Products Men Need For healthy Skin Glow | Fab.ng

Men and skincare are gradually becoming a thing! Gone are the days when skincare was considered a women’s domain. Men’s skin has unique needs too, and facing challenges like dryness, wrinkles, and even acne.

There are essential products for a healthy glow that men should use. Here, we will explore some of these essential skincare products men should have in their routine, along with the benefits they offer.

1. Sunscreen

Sunscreen isn’t just for vacations at the beach! The sun emits harmful UV rays that damage skin over time, leading to wrinkles, dark spots, and even an increased risk of skin cancer. For men, this can be especially noticeable in areas like the face, neck, and ears that get frequent sun exposure.

Sunscreen helps shield your skin from these damaging rays. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Broad-spectrum means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays, the two main types of ultraviolet radiation from the sun.

See a breakdown of what SPF means below:

SPF 15: Blocks about 93% of UVB rays
SPF 30: Blocks about 97% of UVB rays
SPF 50: Blocks about 98% of UVB rays

While SPF 50 offers slightly more protection, SPF 30 is generally sufficient for daily use. Apply sunscreen generously to all exposed skin parts at least 15 minutes before going outside, and reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating.

2. Retinol

As men age, their skin naturally loses collagen, a protein that keeps skin plump and youthful. This can lead to the formation of wrinkles and fine lines. Retinol, a form of Vitamin A, is a powerful ingredient that can help combat these signs of ageing.

Retinol works by stimulating collagen production and increasing skin cell turnover. This results in smoother, firmer skin with a more even tone.

While retinol is highly effective, it can also be irritating to some people. It’s recommended to start with a low concentration and use it only a few times a week at first. Gradually increase frequency as your skin adjusts.

Here are some tips for using retinol:

Apply it at night, as sunlight can break it down.
Use a moisturizer after applying retinol, as it can be drying.
Avoid using other harsh skincare products with retinol, as it can irritate your skin.

Consider a gentler alternative: If retinol is too harsh for your skin, consider using a bakuchiol product. Bakuchiol is a plant-derived ingredient that offers some of the same benefits as retinol but with less irritation.

3. Moisturizer

Just like drinking water is important for your overall health, keeping your skin hydrated is crucial for a healthy glow. Moisturizer traps water in the skin, preventing it from drying out and becoming flaky or itchy. This is especially important for men, as their skin tends to be oilier and can be more prone to dryness with frequent shaving.

Look for a moisturizer that is labelled as “oil-free” or “non-comedogenic” if you have oily or acne-prone skin. These types of moisturizers won’t clog your pores.

4. Cleanser

While soap can remove some surface dirt, it often strips the skin of its natural oils, leaving it feeling dry and tight. A good facial cleanser is specifically formulated to remove dirt, oil, and sweat without disrupting the skin’s natural balance.

There are many types of cleansers available, so choose one that suits your skin type. For example, men with oily skin might benefit from a gel cleanser, while those with dry skin might prefer a creamier cleanser.

Here’s how to cleanse your face properly:

Wet your face with lukewarm water.
Apply a dime-sized amount of cleanser to your hands and massage it gently onto your face, avoiding the eye area.
Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and pat your face dry with a clean towel.

5. Hydration

Drinking enough water is essential for overall health, and it also plays a vital role in skin health. Water helps to flush toxins from the body and keeps skin hydrated from the inside out.

Aim to drink eight glasses of water per day for optimal health and a radiant complexion.

Building your skincare routine

While this article highlights some essential products, a skincare routine for men doesn’t have to be complicated. Start with a basic routine of cleansing, moisturizing, and using sunscreen daily.

Once your skin adjusts, you can incorporate additional products like retinol for anti-ageing benefits. Remember, consistency is required here! Sticking to a regular skincare routine will help you achieve a healthy

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BEAUTY

Trying These Would Make Your Synthetic Or Human Hair Wigs Luscious & Beautiful

Published

4 weeks ago

December 21, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

How to make synthetic & human hair wigs lush & beautiful | fab.ng

Wigs, whether synthetic or made from human hair, are versatile tools for styling, enhancing your look, or providing a confidence boost.

However, keeping them luscious and beautiful requires proper care and maintenance. Here are effective methods to maintain your wigs and ensure they stay gorgeous.

1. Understand the Material of Your Wig

Synthetic wigs and human hair wigs have different care needs. Synthetic wigs are more affordable and pre-styled, while human hair wigs offer a natural look and greater styling flexibility.

Knowing the material of your wig will guide you in choosing the right products and care methods to keep it luscious and beautiful.

2. Wash Your Wigs Properly

Proper washing is essential to maintain the beauty of both synthetic and human hair wigs:

Synthetic Wigs: Wash them every 8–10 wears using cool water and specialised wig shampoo. Avoid rubbing or twisting the fibres to prevent tangling and damage.
Human Hair Wigs: Wash them less frequently, about every 10–15 wears, with sulphate-free shampoos and conditioners. Always rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry gently.

Both types benefit from air drying on a wig stand, as this helps preserve their shape and style.

3. Detangle Before and After Use

Use a wide-tooth comb or wig-specific brush to gently detangle the strands. Start at the tips and work upward to the roots. For synthetic wigs, this prevents breakage, while for human hair wigs, it helps maintain natural smoothness.

4. Conditioning is Key

Synthetic Wigs: Use wig conditioners designed for synthetic fibres. Focus on the ends, as they are more prone to dryness.
Human Hair Wigs: Apply leave-in conditioners or serums to keep the strands soft and shiny.

Conditioning ensures your wigs remain luscious and beautiful over time.

5. Store Wigs Properly

Proper storage prevents tangling and helps maintain the style. Use a wig stand or a mannequin head. If you need to travel, pack your wig in a silk or satin bag to reduce friction and keep it looking fresh.

6. Use Heat Carefully

Synthetic wigs are generally heat-sensitive, so avoid styling them with heated tools unless they are heat-resistant. For human hair wigs, use heat tools sparingly and always apply a heat protectant to prevent damage.

7. Avoid Excess Shine on Synthetic Wigs

Some synthetic wigs may appear overly shiny. To reduce the artificial gloss, lightly dust them with baby powder or dry shampoo. This technique gives synthetic wigs a more natural and luscious appearance.

8. Refresh and Restyle Regularly

Synthetic Wigs: Use styling sprays made specifically for synthetic fibres to refresh the look.
Human Hair Wigs: You can curl, straighten, or colour them like natural hair, but ensure you use professional-grade products.

Frequent restyling keeps your wigs attractive and aligns them with current trends.

9. Rotate Between Wigs

Having multiple wigs allows each to rest and regain its form, extending its lifespan. Alternating between wigs also gives you variety and reduces wear and tear on a single piece.

10. Seek Professional Care

For extensive maintenance or restyling, consider taking your wig to a professional. Experts can deep-clean, restore, and even repair damages to both synthetic and human hair wigs, ensuring they stay luscious and beautiful for years.

By following these tips, you can ensure your synthetic and human hair wigs remain in excellent condition, radiating beauty and confidence every time you wear them.

Proper care not only extends their lifespan but also enhances your overall appearance, making every day a fabulous hair day.

For more articles on beauty, you can explore resources here.

BEAUTY

Nigerian Model, Samuel Nwajagu Becomes First African To Win Mister International Title

Published

1 month ago

December 16, 2024

Reporter

Samuel Nwajagu wins Mister International pageant | fab.ng

Nigerian model Samuel Nwajagu made history by becoming the first African to win the prestigious Mister International title.

This landmark achievement occurred during the 16th edition of the pageant, held in Bangkok, Thailand.

The event saw 47 contestants from around the globe, including debutant countries like Cameroon, England, Benin Republic, and Mali, competing for the coveted title.

Mister International, regarded as one of the largest male beauty pageants globally, is second only to Mister World in terms of national-level participation.

Since its establishment in 2006 by the late Alan Sim in Singapore, the competition has grown to attract participants from over 80 countries, with an annual average of 38 contestants.

This year’s competition incorporated several activities, from city tours to preliminary rounds showcasing physical fitness, cultural attire, and formal wear.

Contestants also faced topical questions, allowing them to display their intelligence, confidence, and charisma.

Samuel Nwajagu becomes first African to win Mister International title | fab.ng

Nwajagu’s remarkable poise and versatility set him apart, ultimately earning him the title. He triumphed over Nguyễn Mạnh Lân from Vietnam and Glenn Victor Sutanto from Indonesia, who were among the top finalists.

Kim Thitisan Goodburn, the 2023 Mister International winner, passed on the crown to Nwajagu, symbolising the continuity of excellence in the competition.

Notably, the 2024 pageant marked a historic shift by permitting fathers, married men, and divorced individuals to compete for the first time in its 16-year history.

Hailing from Anambra State, 23-year-old Samuel Nwajagu is celebrated for his dedication to fashion, fitness, and wellness.

His victory not only highlights his talent but also underscores Africa’s growing representation on the global stage of pageantry. Through determination and charisma, Nwajagu’s success is an inspiration for aspiring models across the continent.

Check out more updates here.

ARTS & CULTURE

Does Anklet Really Signify Promiscuity?

Published

1 month ago

December 7, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

Does Anklet Meanings Include Promiscuity? | fab.ng

What is an anklet?

An anklet is a versatile piece of jewellery that women typically wear around their ankles. Crafted from materials like chains, beads, or a mix of both, anklet meanings vary across cultures and styles.

Many fashionable women choose anklets to make a bold style statement, embracing their elegance and charm.

In Nigeria, people often call this accessory a “leg chain” or “ankle chain,” reflecting its cultural relevance. In pop culture, it’s popularly known as an “ankle bracelet.”

Anklets here focus more on fashion than symbolism, though interpretations can differ. With various styles and intricate designs available, anklets offer countless aesthetic options, allowing women to showcase their personal flair.

Ultimately, anklet meanings can be deeply personal, influenced by tradition, culture, or simply individual taste.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Throughout history, anklets have held different meanings across various cultures. While some view them as mere adornments, others have associated them with deeper, sometimes controversial, connotations.

In some societies, ancient and modern, anklets symbolise promiscuity.

Early Usage in Ancient Civilisations

Egypt is often credited as the birthplace of anklets, but India played a significant role in their widespread acceptance. In India, anklets were part of traditional attire, known as pattilu, payal, or nupu.

These terms also include Paujinupur and padapadma. Early Indian literature, such as the first-century epic Silappatikaram, mentions anklets, highlighting their cultural importance.

Rajasthani women were known for their elaborate anklet designs, reflecting regional traditions.

Among the Odisha people, gold anklets were once reserved for warriors, while brides included them as part of their wedding regalia.

Married women often wore anklets to signify their marital status, and dancers used those with dangling bells to enhance their performances.

Similarly, in ancient Egypt, anklets indicated social status. Wealthy women wore gold anklets, while silver or leather versions were common among slaves and the poor.

These accessories, known as menefret or kholkai, reflected one’s place in the social hierarchy. Interestingly, some accounts suggest that anklets were linked to temple worshippers and even prostitutes, though these claims remain largely unverified.

Modern Evolution and Symbolism

Over time, the meaning of anklets has evolved significantly. In the 1970s, during America’s “sexual revolution,” anklets became symbols of female empowerment and liberation.

This era emphasised women’s freedom to express themselves, including their sexuality. Consequently, anklets began to carry connotations of promiscuity, especially within the “hotwife” culture.

The “Hotwife” Phenomenon

A “hotwife” refers to a married woman who engages in consensual extramarital relationships with her husband’s approval. Various anklet symbols reflect this dynamic:

Two male symbols and one female symbol: Indicate openness to relationships with men of any race.
Queen of spades: Represents a preference for Black men.
Heart symbol: Suggests a happy marriage that includes mutually beneficial intimate relationships outside the primary partnership.
The key to happiness: Denotes a marriage where the husband’s extramarital activities are contingent on his wife’s consent.

Anklets in Contemporary Nigerian Fashion

Today, many Nigerian women wear anklets purely for their aesthetic appeal, often unaware of the historical or cultural associations. For them, anklets are fashion accessories, not symbols of promiscuity or class distinction.

Despite lingering societal judgments, especially within conservative African contexts, it’s essential to recognize that fashion choices are personal.

Women should not face harsh criticism for wearing anklets, as these judgments stem from outdated or culturally irrelevant perspectives.

In conclusion…

Anklets are versatile fashion pieces that have transcended their historical roots. While some cultural connotations persist, modern women wear anklets to express their style and individuality.

It is crucial to separate fashion from judgement and allow women the freedom to make their own choices about their bodies and accessories.

Let’s appreciate anklets for what they are today: beautiful, empowering symbols of self-expression.