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Understanding Face Paint and Beard Dye Before Super Bowl Sunday

Are you rooting for the AFC or NFC at your Super Bowl party? Regardless of their fandom, some guys like to show their support with beard dye and face paint. These products are part of the fun evening, though it’s essential to understand the risks and how to apply them.

What to Know About Face Paint Before the Big Game

Face paint is easier to apply for kids because they likely don’t have beards. However, adult men must be more careful because of their facial hair. Here’s how you should approach it.

1.   Choose a Good Face Paint

When choosing a paint, consider which one would be best for your skin. You have plenty of options. Start with a water-based paint if you want to get rid of it quickly after your Super Bowl party.

Cream-based products typically last longer and are more suitable if you need all-day color. Your next priority should be getting hypoallergenic and non-toxic face paint to mitigate itchiness or dangerous chemicals. Then, consider trimming your beard to make the application more manageable.

2.   Application

Regardless of the paint you choose, the first priority should be washing your face. Get a clean start by removing oils, dirt and other contaminants in your way. Then, apply the base paint to your face, avoiding contact with your eyes.

Once you have the base, you can start adding stencils, stripes or numbers. For example, a Chiefs-themed face could be red with yellow and white lines on your beard’s edge. Alternatively, you could add your favorite player’s number. Wearing No. 26 on your face won’t make you as strong as Saquon Barkley, but it’s a start.

3.   Aftercare

Face paint is terrific for Super Bowl Sunday, but you don’t want to show up at work the next day with leftover decorations. Start with a makeup remover that’s gentle on your skin. If yours is sensitive, consider coconut oil because it doubles as a moisturizer.

Then, focus on your beard’s needs. If some paint gets in your facial hair, use a beard wash to clean it up and remove any remnants. Most face-paint products don’t have a scent, but a sandalwood beard wash could remove any lingering odd smells.

4.   The Risks

Some football fans try to budget their night wisely after the holiday spending by skipping the decorations or co-hosting. How can you save time and cash in your festivities? Know the risks of face paint before spending money on medicine to care for a rash or bad reaction.

While most products are safe, there are still risks to buying paint with unfamiliar ingredients. These cosmetics could cause an infection or allergic reaction on your face. For example, your face paint may contain heavy metals like arsenic or lead. When consumed in significant amounts, they could be toxic.

How to Approach Beard Dye for Your Super Bowl Party

Your face isn’t the only thing you can decorate on Super Bowl Sunday. With beard dye at your disposal, you can take your pride to the next level. Here’s what you need to know about it.

1. Picking a Beard Dye

First, you must choose what dye you want for the party. Don’t get hair and beard dye confused, as they operate differently. The hair on your head is typically thicker than your beard, thus requiring stronger components to alter the color. Conversely, the dye for your facial hair is gentler due to the less effort necessary.

Another critical consideration is whether you want to get a professional dye or a do-it-yourself job. At a salon or barber shop, you get an expert’s touch, but you can dye your beard at home if you want a quick fix.

2. Application

Some precautions could protect your skin before you apply the dye. For instance, consider testing a small amount of the product on your arm before applying it to your facial hair. This strategy lets you see how your skin reacts and adjust accordingly. If everything goes as planned, you can take the next step with your beard.

Like the face paint, your beard dye requires a fresh start. Wash your facial hair with beard shampoo to remove contaminants and extra oils. Some guys apply petroleum jelly like Vaseline around their beards to safeguard their skin. Then, you follow the box’s directions to ensure you get the most from your dye.

3. Aftercare

Dyeing your beard can negatively affect it by making it quite dry. Therefore, it’s essential to apply quality beard oil in your aftercare. When you want to remove the color, refrain from using bleach or other harmful products. It’s best to let it fade over time until your hair returns to its original color.

If you want a quicker solution, consider trimming your beard or shaving it completely. Other options include going to a barbershop or removing the dye yourself. DIY adventures include mixing baking soda, white vinegar, dish soap and shampoo to remove the color.

4. The Risks

It’s fun to dye your beard for a Super Bowl party — especially if your team is playing — but it comes with some risks you might be unaware of. For example, the American Cancer Society says consistent exposure to dyes has some correlation to an increased risk of bladder cancer.

While less severe, dryness and brittleness are other risks of using beard dye. These products strip moisture from your facial hair, thus leaving coarser textures over time. With weaker hair, you may find split ends and more challenging styling sessions. Another consequence is fading colors, requiring more time to get to your preferred color.

Wisely Decorating Your Face and Beard for the Big Game

Sporting events are about showing your team pride and celebrating wins with your friends. How can you do it in style? Face paint and beard dye are terrific products to put your game face on for your Super Bowl party. Before you change colors, ensure your hair and skin are ready for application.

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How to Care for Your Skin During a Harsh Winter

Winter involves holiday gatherings and relaxing by the fire. However, the cold temperatures can take a toll on your skin if you don’t properly care for it. How can you ensure a healthy, moisturized body during a harsh winter? Here are eight tips to use during the cold season.

1. Use Moisturizer

Moisturizer should be part of your skincare routine throughout the year, but it’s even more essential during the winter. Find a formula that’s best for your skin type. While scent should be a factor, you want to pick the most effective brand to keep your skin moisturized. The optimal time to apply it is after you dry yourself off after a shower.

Dry skin is common in the winter due to the outside conditions. If your skin starts flaking, consider seeing a health care professional for further help. You may get a prescription for extra-strength skin care products. Make moisturizer part of your routine by doing it at least once daily. Typically, guys apply it in the morning and at night.

2. Apply Beard Oil

Guys with beards need an extra layer of protection in the winter, considering they’re susceptible to dry facial hair. Incorporate beard oil in your routine as often as your skin moisturizer. These products work together to keep your integumentary system hydrated and ready for the harsh winters.

When searching for beard oil, find products with high-quality ingredients and pleasant scents. It’s also practical for grooming facial hair and achieving specific looks — and while it’s great for your beard, this oil goes deeper by moisturizing your hair follicles and skin to reduce dryness and dandruff.

3. Remember Your Sunscreen

You may associate sunscreen with fun summer days at the beach. While it’s essential during hot weather, this lotion remains helpful in the harsh winter. Ultimately, it comes down to ultraviolet (UV) rays. Experts say the sun causes up to 90% of visible skin changes despite some attributing them to aging. Therefore, this skincare strategy is essential.

UV levels dip in the winter because of the Earth’s tilt, but they’re still potent enough to affect your skin. This type of radiation is invisible to the human eye, so it’s best to wear sunscreen throughout the year. Wear it between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. if you’re in direct sunlight for prolonged periods.

4. Turn on the Humidifier

Being indoors doesn’t always protect you from the elements. Even your indoor living space becomes drier when the air shifts from humid to arid. These conditions are more bearable when you have a humidifier in your home. Turn it on during the winter to add moisture and reduce the dryness in your beard and skin.

Keep the humidifier at a comfortable level in tandem with your thermostat to ensure your living space doesn’t feel like a rainforest. This appliance sends water vapor into the air, allowing your skin to remain hydrated. In addition to being excellent for your skin, humidifiers keep your living space more habitable during the winter.

5. Monitor Your Appliances

Humidifiers keep your home comfortable and your skin hydrated during the winter. What about your other appliances? All your domestic machines have a role in your body’s health. Maintaining these appliances throughout the year — especially in the colder months — is essential to your well-being. Watch for signs they need extra care.

For instance, heat pumps are crucial for warming your home and mitigating the harsh conditions outside. Within this device, the air filter requires regular examinations and cleanings. This component removes mold and mildew that make you sick but can become clogged if you don’t tend to it. Odd sounds could also indicate your heat pump needs service.

6. Take Colder Showers

When you’ve spent time in the cold, it’s nice to come home and take a hot shower. The warm water feels fantastic on your skin but could adversely affect its hydration. Experts say hot water removes oil and moisture from your body, thus causing more harm than good if you’re concerned about dry skin.

Once winter arrives, mitigate your skin drying with colder showers than usual. While it can take time to get used to, your skin will thank you later. Lukewarm or cold showers are better for your body because they’re better at retaining moisture. Another way to improve your shower routine is by using mild soaps.

7. Eat a Healthy Diet

The air and your skincare products significantly determine your skin’s moisture levels. However, there are a few underrated factors you may overlook. For instance, people underestimate the role of healthy eating in your skin’s health. A 2024 Cureus study found a well-balanced diet supported optimal skin health and influenced dermatological disorders.

Your diet should be specific to your nutritional needs. That said, you can help your skin by following basic dietary principles. Protein, carbohydrates and healthy fats should be at the center of your meals. Increase your vitamin A intake, as experts say this substance protects skin from free radicals. Your shopping list should include sweet potatoes, carrots and spinach.

8. Monitor Your Coffee Consumption

Coffee is a must for many guys, whether they work early or burn the midnight oil. While this beverage boosts your energy, it could harm your skin. Coffee is a diuretic, so it removes moisture from your body and increases bathroom trips. Constant consumption could lead to drier skin, especially in the winter.

When the cold weather arrives, monitor your coffee cups and see how your body reacts. If your skin becomes drier, reduce your consumption and see if it has any effect. Coffee has a role in helping skin, such as treating shaving cuts and constricting blood vessels. Some people use coffee seed oil to increase collagen. However, you should watch how it impacts your body.

Protecting Your Body From the Harsh Conditions

Old Man Winter doesn’t have much sympathy for your skincare routine. This season typically brings snowfall, drier conditions and flaky skin, so caring for your body is essential. Take extra time to moisturize your face and beard. Then, do the little things like eating a healthy diet and taking a cold shower. Ultimately, skincare in the winter requires a holistic approach.

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Classic Movie Beards and How to Achieve Them

Facial hair is an underappreciated part of cinema. Without beards and mustaches, some actors wouldn’t have the aura and majestic looks that made them famous. How can you emulate the most renowned movie beards? Here are the eight best examples and how to achieve them.

1. Johnny Depp: “Pirates of the Caribbean”

“Pirates of the Caribbean” has made $1.45 billion since its 2003 debut. When you think of the movies, you likely picture Johnny Depp as Jack Sparrow with his fashionable beard. The braids and beads make his facial hair iconic and recognizable, even from a silhouette. While challenging, it’s one of the best facial hair styles to emulate.

Start by growing a full beard because you’ll need plenty for the braids. Once grown, shave your cheeks and most of your neck as if you’re creating a goatee. Divide your chin hair once it reaches 4 inches and braid it. You’ll look even better with the soul patch, so don’t shave it. This beard is excellent if you don’t have a lot of facial hair but still want a fun style.

2. Sir Ian McKellen: “The Lord of the Rings”

Speaking of successful movies, “The Lord of the Rings” features Gandalf and one of the most legendary beards. Sir Ian McKellen rocked this look that gave the wizard his superior wisdom, helping Frodo and Sam on their journey. Practice patience — you’ll need it for this style.

Let your mane grow for multiple months to get the Gandalf beard. Length is the primary goal, so maintenance is necessary to keep it stylish. Your grooming routine should include a conditioning wash, consistent brushing and occasional trims to improve appearance. The white and gray dyes are optional for this one.

3. Hugh Jackman: “X2”

Wolverine is famous for his hair and sharp claws, but you shouldn’t forget the iconic mutton chops. Hugh Jackman’s portrayal in “X2” is unforgettable and worthy of Halloween or cosplay ideas. This facial hair concept is pretty manageable, though you’ll need attention to detail for perfection.

Focus on your cheeks and the mutton chops for Hugh Jackman’s beard. Shave your mustache and the soul patch down to stubble so people see the rest of your face. Your mutton chops should be around 1 or 2 inches, so let the hair grow for a while. Don’t worry if it looks unkempt.

4. Clint Eastwood: “The Good, the Bad and the Ugly”

Clint Eastwood has numerous iconic movies, but his looks stand out in “The Good, The Bad and The Ugly” from 1966. Eastwood’s appearance is iconic for his hat, poncho, grubby cheroot and era-defining cowboy stubble. If you want simplicity, this movie beard is for you.

The Man With No Name has a surprisingly groomed beard for being an aggressive bounty hunter. Grow the hair on your cheeks, but trim it to ensure it doesn’t go wild. Your neck hair can grow slightly, but keep it shorter than your cheeks to emulate the style.

5. Tom Hanks: “Cast Away”

Not all cinema looks need grooming. In “Cast Away,” Tom Hanks has to survive on a deserted island. The setting had no razors, so he had to let his facial hair grow. While grooming is part of any good maintenance routine, it won’t be for this beard.

In “Cast Away,” Tom’s facial hair gradually grows, so your beard comes in phases. Start with heavy stubble before progressing to a more unorganized look. Your beard should be about 3 mm long by the third day, so let it progress. Eventually, your facial hair should reach scruffy and unkempt levels to mimic Hanks.

6. Kurt Russell: “The Thing”

If you like sci-fi and horror, you probably recognize the greatness of “The Thing.” Kurt Russell starred in this 1982 movie and made headlines because of his fantastic beard. His facial hair embodied the full-hair-and-beard look famous in the 1970s and 1980s.

Russell’s big beard was essential for filming in Juneau, Alaska. Emulating his facial hair requires growing it out for a few weeks, depending on how fast it grows. That said, your R.J. MacReady beard needs plenty of grooming to ensure it stays intact. Use beard combs and regularly trim to ensure cleanliness on your face. You could also use some frost to emulate the Alaskan cold.

7. Gerard Butler: “King Leonidas”

Some men command great power with their beards. If you want to look like a king, take lessons from Gerard Butler. The famous actor portrayed King Leonidas of Sparta as he led 300 Spartans into Thermopylae. Pair the outfit with a cape and sword for an authentic look.

The 300 beard requires an extended growing period, so don’t shave for a couple of months. If you want a touch-up, clean the upper half of your cheeks. Otherwise, ensure a pleasant and even style across your mustache and soul patch. Volume is critical here, so use good beard products and a healthy diet to emulate one of the best movie beards.

8. Zach Galifianakis: “The Hangover”

“The Hangover” was one of the best films from the late 2000s, boasting over $460 million at box offices worldwide. This franchise is synonymous with Zach Galifianakis and his big beard, sunglasses and baby carrier. If you combine all three, you could craft an excellent costume. Grab a couple of friends to portray Bradley Cooper and Ed Helms.

The Zach Galifianakis beard requires grizzly bear genes because you require full facial hair. You can get an occasional trim to clean it up, but you won’t need much more. Keep the beard entirely brown for the first “Hangover” movie, but later portrayals require some gray mixed in the middle. Curl your hair if you want to complete the look.

Growing the Best Movie Beards

While performance goes a long way, appearance puts actors over the top. Captain Jack Sparrow, Chuck Noland and Gandalf are a few men who wouldn’t be the same without their beards.

When growing movie beards, pay attention to the specific maintenance needs. Some appearances need consistent grooming, whereas others can remain unkempt.

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Best Beard Grooming Habits When Dealing With Extreme Heat

Summertime brings late sunsets, terrific barbecues and fun days on the water. However, the scorching temperatures can make your outings much more difficult. How should your grooming habits change when extreme heat arrives? Caring for your beard is a priority because of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. Here’s how to take care of your beard in the dog days of summer.

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What Grooming Habits Should You Use in Extreme Heat?

When the temperatures hit triple digits, it’s time to turn on the air conditioner and care for your beard. Here are five habits for protecting your beard and grooming for the summer heat. 

Sunscreen

Your skin needs sunscreen to reduce the risk of sun damage and prevent discomfort. Heat waves typically mean intense UV rays beating on your arms, face and legs. While rubbing sunscreen on your skin is standard practice, you also need it for your beard.

Sunscreen is most advantageous for guys with thin beards. Apply it to your facial hair for enhanced protection against dangerous UV rays. Protect your beard and keep it soft all summer by making sunscreen one of your extreme heat grooming habits.

Trimming

You might not want to hear about trimming if you enjoy your long beard. However, it’s a worthwhile part of your routine because it cools down your face. Less facial hair means a lighter beard and an easier time in the sun.

Your beard keeps heat under your hair and makes the weather feel hotter than it is. Find the beard length you feel most comfortable with in the summer and make it a part of your routine. Alternatively, try a shorter and trendy style like the chinstrap or the Balbo beard.

Exfoliation

When you think of exfoliation, you likely picture acne prevention. However, it also matters for your beard. Exfoliating is one of the most essential grooming habits for your face because it aids blood circulation. It’s also complementary to beard oil after you apply the product.

Exfoliating eliminates dead skin cells in facial hair and makes it more comfortable during extreme heat. The process is easy when you have a beard brush, so find one with the proper stiffness. This tool also aids facial hair in absorbing beard balm.

Beard Shampoo

Going outside may be unavoidable, so you’ll return with a hard day’s work on your face. Sweat, dirt, dust and other contaminants seep into your beard, meaning you need a body and beard shower afterward. Cleanse your face with beard shampoo as one of your grooming habits.

Beard shampoo cleans your beard by removing the contaminants clogging your pores. You’ll also protect your facial hair’s natural oils with restored moisture and a healthier appearance. Find a gentle shampoo that protects your beard instead of introducing harsh chemicals.

Beard Oil

Being in the sun for extended periods means caring for your skin and beard afterward. Your skin may need aloe due to the sunburn, and your facial hair craves beard oil. Experts say extended heat exposure makes your hair feel brittle, so moisture restoration is necessary for your beard.

Beard oil is an excellent remedy for drying facial hair because it hydrates your beard and the skin underneath. Apply a few drops after you’ve been in the sun to prevent the worst UV ray damage and smell great at the same time.

How Else Can You Protect Your Beard During Extreme Heat?

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Solid grooming habits are essential during extreme heat. However, there are other factors you should consider for your facial hair. Here are more tips for beard upkeep this summer.

Shade

Prolonged sun exposure harms your skin and facial hair, so stay away from UV rays as much as possible by finding shade. Have your outdoor picnic under a tree or hang out with your family on a shaded porch. Take whatever measure necessary to keep your beard from the sun.

What happens if you’re in the sun too long? While your beard faces dryness and brittleness, your entire body is at risk during heat waves. Research shows heat stroke and heat exhaustion cause hundreds of fatalities annually, emphasizing the need for self-care.

Timely Outings

You still have things to do during heat waves, so sitting inside all day might not be an option. If you must go outside, time your outings to avoid the worst UV rays. Your body and beard will thank you when you finish your errands before the sun starts beating heavily on your skin.

When should you avoid outdoor activities? The American Cancer Society says the six hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. are the worst because that’s when UV rays become their most potent. Go for a swim after sunset or play in the park with your kids in the early morning.

Hydration Breaks

Remember a couple of things if you must go outside in the middle of the day. First, you need adequate hydration throughout your outdoor activities. Your body loses water through sweat, so you need replenishment. Plus, your water intake throughout the day keeps your beard hydrated.

Another essential reminder during a heat wave is taking breaks. Schedule regular rest periods for your body to ensure you don’t overdo it. While you may feel tempted to tough it out, the extreme heat and UV rays are no joke. Take the time to hydrate and cool down.

Diet

Diet

While grooming habits take center stage, don’t forget the minor details concerning beard health. For example, your diet matters during extreme heat because it affects your facial hair growth. Maintaining a healthy diet is a small but significant part of your day. 

How can your diet maintain beard health? Experts say lean proteins and iron-rich foods make your facial hair look healthier and fuller. Chicken and salmon are terrific light protein sources, so make cold sandwiches when heat waves arrive. 

Careful Swimming

Jumping into swimming pools is an excellent way to cool off and stay fit in the summer. While enjoyable, they can impact your beard health due to the chemicals. Therefore, you should watch what you put in the pool when it’s time to clean.

Chlorine is a significant reason to limit your time spent in swimming pools. This chemical element makes you vulnerable to dryness and discoloration as it seeps into your cuticles. Consider chlorine alternatives or spend more time in natural bodies of water.

Remembering Your Grooming Habits in Extreme Heat

Heat waves can cause even the toughest guys to succumb to extreme temperatures. You need solid grooming habits and safety precautions to stay healthy in the summer heat. Beard products, shade and hydration are excellent options during dangerously hot weather.

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