When it comes to men's skin care and grooming, nothing's scarier than dark under-eye circles, fine lines and damaged skin. So in honor of this ghoulish season, MenScience provides some tips on how to avoid looking like a monster...for the other 364 days of the year!

Reducing scars / damaged skin

Even if they are a natural part of your body's healing process, you don't have to look like Frankenstein's monster. Diminish scars by exfoliating your skin on a regular basis with a product that gently buffs away dead skin cells. This will soften the scar's edges, creating a smoother appearance. Whether your scars are from previous injuries or old acne, make sure to use a sunscreen so marks won't re-darken when exposed to sunlight. Although moisturizing is not proven to reduce scars, keeping skin well-hydrated can promote a smoother, more supple surface and a healthier appearance overall.

Fine Lines / Wrinkles

Count Dracula isn't the only one that can pull off that "ageless" look. Keep fine lines to a minimum by protecting skin early on from sun and environmental damage with a solid sunscreen, and regularly using a product formulated with antioxidant ingredients like GABA, Peptides and Retinol. Cutting out bad habits (such as smoking and excessive drinking) and following an exercise plan can also help in the long run, and keep you looking great for an (unsettlingly) long time.

Dark Under-Eye Circles

In addition to imparting a very "undead" look, dark under-eye circles can add years to your appearance. To reduce them, apply a warm cloth or eye mask for several minutes to your eye area and follow with an application of moisturizer specifically formulated to hydrate the sensitive skin around the eyes. And quit stomping around the cemetery at all hours---get at least 8 hours a sleep a night to further reduce circles.

For more help with these "monstrous" problems and more, read the MenScience newsletter Seriously Scary Skincare.

Labels: anti-aging, damaged skin, fine lines, men's health, men's skin care, men's skincare, menscience, raccoon eyes, scar, under eye circles, wrinkles