Mastering Masculine Skincare: A Simple Guide for Common Concerns
“In recent years, the stigma surrounding skincare for men has faded, and more gentlemen are realizing the importance of taking care of their skin. However, navigating the world of skincare can still be overwhelming, especially with the plethora of products and advice available. In this short guide, we’ll address common skincare concerns for men and provide a simple yet effective skincare routine tailored to their needs.”
Understanding Common Skincare Concerns for Men
Men’s skin differs from women’s in several ways, primarily due to higher testosterone levels, thicker skin, and more active sebaceous glands. While these differences offer some advantages, they also come with unique challenges. Here are some common skincare concerns men often face:
Acne and Breakouts: Due to increased oil production, men are more prone to acne and breakouts, especially during puberty and hormonal fluctuations.
Razor Burn and Ingrown Hairs: Shaving can irritate the skin, leading to razor burn, bumps, and ingrown hairs, particularly for those with coarse or curly facial hair.
Dryness and Dehydration: Men’s skin tends to be thicker and oilier, but it can still become dry and dehydrated. Exposure to harsh weather conditions and using irritating ingredients can be causes for this dryness.
Sun Damage: Sun exposure can lead to premature aging, sunburn, and an increased risk of skin cancer. Men are often less diligent about sun protection compared to women.
Signs of Aging: While men’s skin ages differently from women’s, it still undergoes changes over time, including wrinkles, sagging and loss of volume.
Building a Simple Yet Effective Skincare Routine
With some of the most common skin concerns identified, it’s time to put together a straightforward routine that addresses some of these issues.
Step 1: Cleansing
Getting your face wet and using your all-in-one shampoo/body wash doesn’t count. Use a gentle facial cleanser, preferably twice a day, to remove dirt, excess oil, and impurities without stripping or irritation. If acne is a concern, look for products with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to reduce blemishes.
Step 2: Shaving
When cleansing your skin before shaving, use warm water to soften the hair follicles. You can also do this by using warm compresses. Be sure to apply a shaving cream or gel that is appropriate for your skin type to reduce irritation. Use a new blade, shave in the direction of hair growth and rinse the blade between every stroke if you’re prone to ingrown hairs.
Step 3: Moisturize
Apply a lightweight moisturizer to your skin daily, particularly after shaving, to reduce dehydration. This will keep skin supple, balanced, and reduce visible fine lines. Remember that hydrated skin heals itself better. Our male clients enjoy Obagi Hydrate Light Weightless Gel Cream.
Step 4: Sunscreen
Did you know that in the United States men experience a higher rate of skin cancer than women? Applying sunscreen is such an important step and should not be overlooked. A SPF 30 or higher should be used daily, even if it’s cloudy. If you’re outside for long periods of time, and especially if you’re sweating or swimming, reapply every two hours. When picking a sunscreen, find a texture that you like. Some of our favorites are EltaMD UV Sheer that has a very light, almost runny non-greasy texture or EltaMD UV Clear that is a little more creamy.
Step 5: Targeted Treatments
If you have a specific skin concern like hyperpigmentation, acne, or aging, incorporate target treatments, such as serums or spot treatments, to address these specific issues. Look for products that contain retinol and niacinamide for anti-aging, benzoyl peroxide for acne, and arbutin or hydroquinone for brown spots. Consistency is key with target treatments in order to see results over time.
Taking care of your skin doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. By understanding common skincare concerns for men and consistently following a simple yet effective routine, you can achieve healthy skin. With dedication and the right products, you can achieve your skincare goals and feel confident in your skin.
Contact Us Today and Begin Your Skincare Journey
At Aesthetics by Design we have the expertise to address a wide range of skin concerns for men and women of all ages. Led by Doctors Mario Imola and David Kowalczyk, the specialized team at Aesthetics by Design has decades of combined experience, and is pleased to consult with you on how best to address your individual concerns and aspirations.
References
Byrne, A., & Milestone, K. (2023). ‘He wouldn’t be seen using it…’ Men’s use of male grooming products as a form of invisible consumption. Journal of Consumer Culture, 23(1), 146-167. https://doi.org/10.1177/14695405211066314
CDCMMWR. “QuickStats: Percentage of Adults Aged ≥18 Years Who Always Use Sunscreen When Outside for 1 Hour on a Sunny Day, by Sex and Age Group — National Health Interview Survey, United States, 2020.” MMWR. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, vol. 71, 2022, www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/71/wr/mm7122a5.htm, https://doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm7122a5. Accessed 30 Oct. 2024.
“Ingrown Hair - Diagnosis and Treatment - Mayo Clinic.” www.mayoclinic.org, 19 Jan. 2024, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ingrown-hair/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20373898. Accessed 30 Oct. 2024.
Levinbook, Wendy. “Pseudofolliculitis Barbae - Dermatologic Disorders.” Merck Manuals Professional Edition, Apr. 2024, www.merckmanuals.com/professional/dermatologic-disorders/hair-disorders/pseudofolliculitis-barbae. Accessed 30 Oct. 2024.
“Men’s Attitudes and Behaviors about Skincare and Sunscreen Use Behaviors.” JDDonline - Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, Jan. 2021, jddonline.com/articles/mens-attitudes-and-behaviors-about-skincare-and-sunscreen-use-behaviors-S1545961621P0088X/. Accessed 30 Oct. 2024.
“Skin Care Tips for Men.” Www.aad.org, 19 Jan. 2024, www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/care/skin-care-for-men. Accessed 30 Oct. 2024.
Solky, Benjamin A, et al. “Patient Preferences for Facial Sunscreens: A Split-Face, Randomized, Blinded Trial.” Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, vol. 57, no. 1, 1 July 2007, pp. 67–72, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaad.2007.04.003. Accessed 28 Feb. 2024.