Most people want clean and clear skin. Men and women alike can struggle with dry skin, acne, and other skin irritations. However, skin thickness varies according to gender and should be treated accordingly. Men and women require different skincare routine and products for their best-looking skin. This blog post highlights why men’s skin should be treated differently than women’s. Here is a quick snapshot of the differences. Read further to understand men’s skin and why their skincare routine should differ.

Thickness of Men’s Skin

Simply put, men have thicker skin than women. Men’s skin is approximately 20% to 40% thicker due to higher androgen levels. However, men’s skin starts to thin as they age, while women maintain thickness until age 50. After menopause, women’s skin gradually thins as they age.

Regular Face Shaving

Shaving removes the uppermost layer of skin cells, making the skin sensitive to external factors. As women shave their legs, men need to shave their faces. The extra stress on the skin’s face leads to more impurities. Additionally, shaving the face leads to razor irritations, resulting in unflattering rashes and cuts. For this reason, ensure you not only shave the face but also adequately avoid using blunt razors or ones with insufficient lubrication.

Oiliness of Men’s Skin

Men’s skin pumps out five times more oil than women’s. The extra oiliness can be due to puberty’s rising sweat secretions and more active sebaceous glands. More active sebaceous glands also mean men have more pores than women, allowing more oil secretion. Men are more prone to sweating, which leads to oiler and shinier skin. As a result, men’s skin pH is lower than that of female skin and is susceptible to more impurities and acne. The good news for men, however, is they are less likely to have issues with dry skin.

Gender Aging Differences

According to The International Dermal Institute, men have a higher collagen density regardless of age than women; this is the ratio of collagen to the thickness of the skin. Researchers believe that the higher collagen density accounts for why women appear to age faster than men of the same age. When considering intrinsic (genetically programmed) aging of the skin, it has been said that women are about 15 years older than men of the same age. Signs of aging occur later in the male skin, but the aging process happens quickly once started. This leads to men being affected by sagging skin, puffy eyes, and dark circles that often make them look tired. Lastly, women receive wrinkles faster, but ultimately, wrinkles are more visible in men than women.

FOR MEN Salon and Spa – Men’s Skincare Routine

FOR MEN Salon | Spa uses MenScience Androceuticals because it is designed to address men’s unique skin needs. Men’s skin requires different considerations due to it being 3 times thicker than women’s. Additionally, men need a skincare routine that is anti-aging so that they can stay looking competitive in the workforce for years to come. Our skincare services offer an anti-aging element to keep our clients looking younger. FOR MEN Salon | Spa is the first AND ONLY full-service men’s only salon and spa in Orange County, CA.

Why choose to go to a men’s only salon? We understand that men want a unique salon experience that is always on time and consistent while using products made just for them in a masculine environment. FOR MEN Salon | Spa aims to provide services that men may not feel comfortable getting at a women’s salon while reshaping how men think about their grooming rituals. We accomplish this by using products designed only for men’s hair types, nails, skin, and body.

For more information about our men’s skincare routine recommendations and services, text (949) 450-0150 for an appointment.

Understanding Male Skin and Why Their Skincare Routine Should Be Different

Skincare is often considered a universal practice, but the reality is far more nuanced. Due to biological, hormonal, and lifestyle factors, men and women have inherently different skin types. This distinction necessitates unique approaches to skincare. Let’s explore why men should treat their skin differently, studying the biological differences, environmental influences, and practical strategies for optimal skincare.

Biological Differences Between Male and Female Skin

1. Hormonal Influences
   • Testosterone plays a significant role in the structure and function of male skin. It increases the production of sebum (oil), which often leads to larger pores and a predisposition to acne.
   • Women’s skin, influenced by estrogen, tends to be thinner and less oily but may experience cyclical changes tied to hormonal fluctuations, particularly around menstruation.
2. Thickness and Collagen Density
   • Due to higher collagen density, male skin is approximately 20-25% thicker than female skin. This makes it more resilient, but it also means that men are less prone to fine lines at an early age. However, once aging signs begin, they tend to appear more dramatically.
3. Sebum and Sweat Production
   • Men generally have more active sebaceous (oil) and sweat glands, producing oilier skin. While this can provide a natural moisture barrier, it makes men more susceptible to clogged pores and breakouts.
4. Hair Growth
   • Another critical difference is facial hair growth. Shaving regularly exposes the skin to irritation, ingrown hairs, and razor burns, requiring specialized care to prevent long-term damage.

Lifestyle Factors and Their Impact on Male Skin

1. Grooming Habits
   • Many men stick to basic grooming routines, often relying on multipurpose products that may not address specific skin needs.
   • Regular shaving or beard grooming adds an additional layer of stress on the skin, making targeted post-shave care essential.
2. Environmental Exposure
   • Men are statistically more likely to work in outdoor environments or engage in activities that expose their skin to harsh conditions like sun, wind, and pollution. This increases the risk of photodamage and premature aging.
3. Neglect of Skincare
   • Cultural perceptions often lead to men neglecting skincare routines, leaving their skin vulnerable to damage and long-term issues such as dryness, hyperpigmentation, or skin cancer.

Tailoring Skincare Routine for Male Skin

Given these biological and lifestyle factors, a one-size-fits-all approach to skincare is inadequate. Here’s how men can adapt their skincare routines:

1. Cleansing

• Why: Men’s oilier skin needs effective cleansing to prevent clogged pores and breakouts. However, over-cleansing can strip natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation.

• What to Use: A gentle, pH-balanced cleanser with ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide for acne-prone skin.

• Why: Thicker skin tends to accumulate dead cells, which can lead to dullness and clogged pores.

• What to Use: A chemical exfoliant with AHAs (glycolic or lactic acid) or BHAs (salicylic acid) once or twice weekly.

• Why: Despite oily tendencies, men’s skin still needs hydration to maintain its barrier function and prevent transepidermal water loss.

• What to Use: Lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizers with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides.

• Why: Regular shaving disrupts the skin barrier and can cause irritation, ingrown hairs, or razor bumps.

• What to Use: Pre-shave oils, alcohol-free shaving creams, and post-shave balms with soothing ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile.

• Why: Sun exposure is the leading cause of skin aging and damage. Men’s outdoor lifestyles make sunscreen a non-negotiable.

• What to Use: Broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, preferably water-resistant and suitable for oily skin.

Key Ingredients to Look For in a Men’s Skincare Routine

1. Niacinamide
   • Benefits: Reduces inflammation, regulates oil production, and improves skin texture.
2. Hyaluronic Acid
   • Benefits: Provides lightweight hydration without clogging pores.
3. Salicylic Acid
   • Benefits: Deeply cleanses pores and controls acne.
4. Antioxidants (Vitamin C, E)
   • Benefits: Protect against environmental damage and promote skin renewal.
5. Retinol
   • Benefits: Addresses aging concerns and improves skin tone over time.

Special Considerations for Men with Facial Hair

For men with beards, skincare must also cater to the health of the underlying skin. Proper beard care includes:

1. Beard Wash: A mild cleanser to remove dirt and excess oil without stripping natural moisture.
2. Beard Oil: Hydrates and softens facial hair, preventing dryness and flakiness.
3. Exfoliation: Helps prevent ingrown hairs and reduces the risk of folliculitis.

Men’s Skincare Myths Debunked

There are numerous reasons men feel they do not need a skincare routine. They really do, though. Here are just a few myths men have about skin care:

1. “Men Don’t Need Skincare”
   • Truth: Everyone benefits from skincare. Neglecting it can lead to long-term damage like premature aging and skin diseases.
2. “Bar Soap is Enough”
   • Truth: Most bar soaps are too harsh and disrupt the skin’s natural pH, causing dryness and irritation.
3. “Oily Skin Doesn’t Need Moisturizer”
   • Truth: Even oily skin requires hydration to maintain balance and prevent the overproduction of sebum.

Long-Term Benefits of a Dedicated Skincare Routine for Men

1. Preventative Care: Early adoption of skincare prevents issues like wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and sagging skin.
2. Enhanced Confidence: Healthy, clear skin can boost self-esteem.
3. Improved Health: Regular skin checks and care reduce the risk of melanoma.

A Case for a Skincare Routine for Men

Men’s skin fundamentally differs from women’s, requiring a tailored approach to skincare. By understanding the biological and lifestyle factors that shape their skin’s needs, men can adopt effective, practical routines that promote long-term health and confidence. Whether you’re new to skincare or looking to refine your routine, the key lies in consistency, targeted care, and quality products. It’s time for men to embrace skincare as an essential aspect of their overall wellness.

The No. 1 Skincare Product Men Need

If a master hairstylist were to recommend just one skincare product for a male client, they would likely suggest a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. This choice stems from its universal benefits and crucial role in maintaining healthy skin. Here’s why:

Why Sunscreen is the Ultimate Recommendation

1. Protects Against UV Damage: Sunscreen shields the skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays, preventing sunburn, premature aging, and the risk of skin cancer.
2. Essential for All Skin Types: Whether the client has oily, dry, sensitive, or acne-prone skin, sunscreen is universally beneficial and can be tailored to men with formulations such as gel, lotion, or mineral-based options.
3. Daily Necessity: Unlike other skincare products that may address specific issues, sunscreen is needed daily to prevent cumulative sun exposure damage.
4. Enhances Overall Skincare: Any investment in skincare products or routines becomes more effective when the skin is protected from environmental aggressors, particularly UV rays.

What We Recommend

Look for a sunscreen that fits these criteria:

• Broad-spectrum coverage to block both UVA and UVB rays.
• Lightweight, non-comedogenic formula to prevent clogged pores.
• Moisturizing properties to hydrate the skin without greasiness.
• Water-resistant if the client is active or outdoors frequently.

Top 2 Sunscreens

• La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-in Milk Sunscreen SPF 100 (great for sensitive or normal skin types).
• Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel SPF 50 (ideal for oily skin).

This singular product could be a game-changer for maintaining youthful, healthy skin and would complement any hairstylist’s expertise in ensuring their male clients look and feel their best.

Our Top Sunscreen Pick

Menscience Androceutical Ti0 30spf . Why we love it? It is water resistant, ultralight and non-greasy! It uses titanium dioxide and advanced ingredients to help protect and moisturize men’s skin. The best part is its Invisible, matte finish absorbs immediately into the skin and won’t run into eyes. Ideal for outdoor activities.