* Cleansing: M to remove dead skin cells and dust, for shaving; E to remove tinted moisturizer, daily grime / pollution, and any excess sebum (a double cleanse at night is the best way to thoroughly cleanse skin, the 1st cleanse removes the dirt / grime, the 2nd cleanse cleans skin).
* Shaving: Shave first (before cleansing) on dry skin for electric razor, or second as part of your More ...
cleansing for blade shaving; rinse with tepid water several times following shaving.
* Toning: I am not so much into toning if you are using a good quality cleanser. Toners were originally developed when a lot of soap products were used to cleanse skin to remove the residue (think of the soap ring left after a bath). Be aware that a lot of "toners" have a high alcohol content, which is not good for any skin type.
M+E - If you like the feel of a freshener between cleansing and moisturizing, a floral water or hydrosol (based on essential oils) is a better option. Skin fresheners are milder than an after shave (most tend to be fragranced alcohol, and may sting or be too drying on freshly shaved skin) - a hydrosol is designed help skin to feel fresh after shaving.
* Moisturizing: M+E - Use the correct level of moisturizer for your skin - not too heavy and not too light - you do not want to feel like you have a greasy residue sitting on the surface of your skin, yet you do not want your skin to feel tight and dry, so knowing your skintype will help you to choose the right sort of moisturizer (gels are light, lotions tend to be light to medium, and creams can be light to rich).
* Exfoliating (scrub): Start W, then depending on your skin type and the results, you may increase to 2W . Gentle exfoliation is important for keeping the skin blemish free, by deep cleansing the superficial (top) layer of the skin, and as it deeply cleanses it also helps to loosen any hard sebum plugs which block the pores, leaving skin feeling silky and smooth, slightly hydrated and nourished. For more information on exfoliation - benefits, how often, etc.
* Mask: W - masking is a wonderful treatment that provides many benefits to the skin. If you want to do a deep cleanse / nourishing treatment, exfoliate first then apply your mask treatment. Masking weekly is fine for most men, however... it is addictive, so you may find that having a monthly facial with an aesthetician or facialist provides even more visible benefits - your skin will never look better! Masks are formulated with specific treatment benefits to the skin - some will provide deep cleansing - removing excess oil and refining pores; others will be deeply nourishing, infusing your skin with rich moisturizing ingredients; others stimulate circulation; and others are designed to treat problem skin. Masking is most effective following a shower (the steam helps to open your pores ready for the mask) and / or massage (using natural oils, you can apply the mask directly over your massage oil and let the essential oils work into your skin with the mask). If your skin is looking / feeling sluggish, a bit lifeless or lackluster, 2W masking is recommended - you will generally notice these skin changes during winter, or times of high stress.
* Other treatments: facial oils (made of 100% pure essential oils), ampules and other specific treatment products are great to use either as a treatment before your moisturizer or under your mask (this will help to infuse the product into your skin). If you are taking a relaxing bath and doing a mask, this works wonders to rejuvenate skin as the heat helps the products penetrate.
Massage is a fabulous way to tone and tighten the muscles of the face while regulating sebum (the skins natural oil) and promotes circulation which helps to even out texture (skin is less likely to look dull and lifeless), help wrinkles from developing prematurely, and provides stress relief, all of which promote clear, healthy skin! A quick massage daily does wonders for most skin types (sensitive and acne skins need to take special care when massaging).
Always protect skin from the suns ageing rays with sunscreen, either a moisturizer with sunscreen or a light sunscreen over your moisturizer.