The secret of consistently good skin is a daily skin care routine consisting of cleansing, toning and moisturising. This goes for men as well as women. In times gone by many men didn't see the need and considered skin care to be the domain of women, but times are changing and there are many more products for men on the market.

Cleansing

The type of cleanser you choose will depend, to a great degree, on the type of skin you have as well as personal preference.

Soap: If you prefer to use soap, choose one that is specially formulated for use on the face, as bath soaps contain detergents and perfumes that may upset the acidic balance of facial skin. Those with oily skin should avoid using soaps, even special facial soaps, as they will probably not reduce the oiliness. Soap is not a good idea for trying to remove makeup, particularly mascara. It doesn't contain the right ingredients to cut through cosmetics and if it gets in the eye, it can cause extreme pain.

Creams, Milks and Lotions: These will cleanse the skin and remove makeup and are suitable for any skin type. They are emulsions (oil mixed with water and an emulsifier to stop the two separating) and the oil content dissolves dirt and makeup without damaging the natural oils of the skin. Creams in particular are suitable for dry skins as they can be applied and removed with tissue or cotton wool and leave a moisturising film behind them.

Wipes: Wipes are really convenient for removing makeup and grime, particularly awkward places like the neck. They are suitable for all different skin types and most brands have a special variety for sensitive skin.

Exfoliants: Some cleansers contain little beads or minute particles of fruit kernels, such as apricot. These not only cleanse but gently remove dead skin flakes. Care should be taken if these products are to be used daily as overuse may upset the skin's balance or, in the case of sensitive skin, cause redness or sore patches.

Toning

Use of a toner immediately after cleansing will ensure complete removal of any remaining traces of makeup, dirt and the cleanser itself. These contain a small proportion of alcohol, which has a pleasantly astringent effect. However, if the toner of your choice actually stings and leaves your face feeling dry and taut, it is probably too strong and should be replaced with a gentler one. Toners for oily skin usually contain the most alcohol and those for dry skin, the least.

Moisturising

All skin needs moisturising, no matter what its type. Moisturisers are designed not only to replace lost skin moisture, but to prevent the loss due to direct sunlight, pollution and other environmental causes. Many skin care experts recommend that a moisturiser containing a UV filter should be used, in order to filter out the harmful rays of the sun. Others point out that complacency is even more dangerous in that the application of a sunscreen should not lead people to believe that they will be safe indefinitely in the full glare of the sun.

There are numerous moisturisers on the market, which claim to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Some seem to be quite effective and the price range is huge but it is generally recommended that you buy the best that you can afford.

One of the major causes of the premature appearance of wrinkles is smoking, so it hardly needs to be said that giving up would be great for your skin, your pocket and your overall health. In addition, drinking water hydrates the whole body, including the skin.

As well as the daily routine, make the time, at least once a week, for a pampering session, including a mask and relaxation session, both of which will improve the appearance of the skin no end.

Age is no object when it comes to skin care. If you start a good beauty routine when young, it will take much longer for those lines, wrinkles and discolourations to appear.

For those with serious skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis or acne, it would be advisable to consult your doctor before embarking on any skin care regime.