You might think that men’s facial skin is more resilient than women’s, and that it has a sturdier protective layer.
That might lead you to believe that you don’t really need to use facial skincare products but you’re a bit misguided. Here’s why. Men’s and women’s facial skin are different (and we’ll get to that in a second), but regardless, you need to care for your facial skin for the same reasons you need to care for your hair, your
teeth, and your digestive system – because lack of care accelerates the effects of aging.Our skin is a living tissue. It is vulnerable to harmful effects of air pollution, dietary habits and, unfortunately, to the passage of time. You should be relieved to know, however, that skincare products have a real, noticeable impact. They protect the skin, they boost blood circulation, and they are loaded with active ingredients,
vitamins, and fatty acids that nourish the skin.
Consider product labels and ingredients.
The skin care products you choose will depend on your
skin type. If you have acne-prone skin, look for cleansers and moisturizers
that say, “oil free” or “non-comedogenic,” as these won’t clog your pores. If
you have sensitive skin, use mild, “fragrance free” products, as products
containing fragrances can leave skin feeling irritated and dry. However, beware
of products labeled “unscented,” as many of these contain masking fragrances
that can still irritate your skin.
Watch your shaving technique.
For some men, multi-blade razors can work too well or
shave too closely to your skin. If you often experience razor bumps, razor
burns, or ingrown hairs, use a single- or double-blade razor instead and do not
stretch your skin taut while shaving. Before you shave, wet your skin and hair
to soften it. Use a moisturizing shaving cream and shave in the direction of
hair growth. Rinse after each swipe of the razor, and change your blade after
five to seven shaves to minimize irritation.
The hormone testosterone determines the masculine characteristics of male skin and gives it a different structure to female skin. While every man’s skin is unique, in general, male skin – on both the face and the body – is thicker, oilier and ages differently.Male skin is, on average, approximately 20% thicker than female skin. It contains more collagen and has a tighter, firmer appearance.The collagen content of male skin reduces at a constant rate. Female skin is affected later in life, especially after the menopause.
Female skin then thins more dramatically and the effects are more pronounced than in male skin.
Men have more active sebaceous glands,
and therefore more pores, than women. Both their sebaceous glands and their
pores are larger than those of women.Sebum production is double that of women,
so male skin is oilier and shinier than female skin. As a result its ph is lower than that of a female skin and is prone to impurities and acne.