In addition to being able to (possibly) grow a beard – there are a number of other differences between a man and woman’s skin.
Therefore, a male should purchase skincare products based on their specific necessities.
Retail Pharmacy Assistants magazine November explored the skin conditions that some males may face, and as for a resolution? It wouldn’t hurt for a lot of guys to up their skincare game.
The key differences:
- Androgen (testosterone) stimulation causes an increase in skin thickness – which explains why a man’s skin is 25 per cent thicker than a woman’s.
- Texture is also tougher.
- After puberty, a male’s sebum (oil) production is greater – this means that men have longer lasting acne.
- Men have a higher collagen density – therefore, the skin doesn’t age as quickly a woman’s (Dermalogica, 2017).
What should a skincare routine look like for a male?
- Cleanse: washing too much can ruin the skin’s natural oils. Wash every night before going to bed to get rid of dirt and pollution. If the skin is quite oily – a hot towel can be used to clean the face.
- Repair: oxidative stress relates to the body’s negative reaction to harmful things like air pollution, cigarette smoke, industrial chemicals and UV rays. An antioxidant serum, like vitamin C is helpful to reduce damage, and should be applied before moisturiser.
- Moisturise: follow up the antioxidant serum with a moisturiser that contains at least SPF 30. If skin is dry, then use a light-weight SPF moisturiser before bed (Healthline, 2018).
To read more about men’s skin health, click here to view the November issue of Retail Pharmacy Assistants magazine.
References:
- Dermalogica, 2017. Is a man’s skin really different from a woman’s? Viewed 12/11/19. https://www.dermalogica.com.au/is-a-man%27s-skin-really-different-from-a-woman%27s%3F/ys_shave_4,en_AU,pg.html
- Healthline, 2018. Minimalist tips for any man looking to invest in self-care. Viewed on 12/11/19. https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/male-skin-care-guide
