We all have skin, so we all need to take care of it. But there are some distinct differences between a man’s and a woman’s skin, leading to differing men's skincare needs. At dermalogica, we understand the importance of informing men and providing them with the right products to take care of their skin as much as we do with women.

In this blog, we will anatomise men’s skin, provide our dos and don’ts, and share our best skincare for men.

is a man’s skin really different from a woman’s?

Yes! Besides having facial hair, there are structural differences between men's skin and women's skin. Androgen (testosterone) stimulation causes an increase in skin thickness, which accounts for why a man's skin is about 25% thicker than a woman's. In addition to being thicker, a man's skin texture is tougher. What’s more, higher testosterone levels mean men tend to produce more oil, as testosterone is the lead hormone sebum (oil) production.

This increased oiliness can make men's skin more prone to issues like acne and larger pores. Understanding these characteristics is crucial for selecting the right skincare products and routine for men. 

what about men's acne?

Due to greater sebum production, men's skin is more prone to long-lasting acne. Though men have smaller oil-secreting sebaceous glands, they generally have oilier skin, making effective male skin care products essential.

To tackle acne for men, it is important to use products specifically formulated for men's skin. Look for cleansers with salicylic acid, which helps unclog pores and spot treatments that target breakouts without drying out the skin. 

does men’s skin really age slower?

Men typically have a higher collagen density than women, which can make their skin appear to age more slowly. Lucky, right? Collagen content is directly related to the signs of skin ageing, which is why it has been said a woman's skin is about 15 years older than a man's of the same age. However, many men tend not to use sunscreens as regularly as women, which can contribute to visible signs of aging and level the playing field a bit. UV damage from the sun can add years to a man's skin and negate the benefit of slowed intrinsic (genetic) skin ageing.

Regular use of sunscreen can greatly benefit male skin by protecting against premature aging. Men should look for broad-spectrum SPF products that are lightweight and non-greasy. 

do men need to use male specific skincare?

It’s a common misconception that skincare is gender specific. Although there are differences between men and women’s skin, skin is still skin! What we know about men’s skin, is it’s typically oilier and prone to congestion, breakouts and uneven texture. Many men also shave, which can leave skin vulnerable to redness and sensitivity. When creating a men's skincare routine, it’s essential to select products that address and balance these particular challenges. For example, if your skin is on the oiler side, opt for a foaming or clay-based cleanser and a light, oil-free moisturiser.

It is also important to note that not all men will have the same skincare needs. Factors such as age, environmental exposure and overall skin health can influence the type of products that will work best. This is why customising your routine is key. 

Even though there are shared skin similarities among men, every skin type is unique and can experience an array of skin conditions. At Dermalogica, we have an extensive range of men's skincare products designed to target multiple skin types and concerns. 

male skin: dos and don’ts:

cleansing

Cleansing is essential for removing excess oil, dirt and grime, all of which can cause, dullness, blackheads and breakouts.

• Don’t use soap as your face cleanser. Soap leaves the skin tight, dry and irritated. This is because soap has an alkaline pH, whereas our skin is more acidic. Instead, chose a cleanser that is pH balanced to the skin.
• Do cleanse every day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Although you may feel your face isn’t “dirty” when you wake up, it is! Overnight your skin still produces oil, sheds dead skin cells, plus sweating whilst we sleep and bacteria from our pillowcases all contribute to a skin in need of a clean!

In addition to using a gentle cleanser, consider incorporating an exfoliating product into your routine once or twice a week. Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and can improve overall skin texture for men. 

moisturising

Just like cleansing, moisturising is a daily (AM and PM) skincare essential.

• Don’t skip this step! People with oily skin are often tempted to avoid moisturisers, to avoid adding extra “weight” to their skin. But be warned, if the skin is left thirsty and lacking water, it produces more oil in an attempt to hydrate itself.
• Do moisturise your skin daily - just opt for a lighter moisturiser if you’re on the oilier side. Hydration is essential for our skin to function. If you are unsure about which moisturiser would be best for your specific skin, get in contact with one of dermalogica's skin experts today. 

For those with dry or combination skin, look for men's face cream containing ceramides or glycerin which can provide additional hydration and strengthen the skin barrier. 

shaving

Shaving exfoliates the outer skin layers and can lead to a more youthful skin appearance. However, it can also irritate skin and lead to more ingrown hairs or bumps if you're not careful.

• Don’t shave against or across the direction that the hair grows as this will increase chances of irritation, redness, ingrown hairs and razor burn. Shave with the grain!
• Do change your razor blade every 3-4 uses if you shave often, or whenever the razor starts pulling, nicking or rusting. This will help ensure your razor stays sharp for a closer, more accurate shave. You can prolong the life of a razor by drying it off after shaving.

Using a shaving cream designed for men's skin can also help protect against irritation. Look for men's skincare products with soothing ingredients like aloe vera or tea tree oil. 

ingredients

Not every ingredient is necessarily good for the health of the skin, and not every ingredient, although popular or trending, is going to be beneficial for your unique skin. Know your skin type and select your skincare and ingredients accordingly to avoid those known to worsen male skin challenges.

• Don’t use artificial fragrances, even if the product smells great! They are a common skin offender and can cause skin sensitivity and allergies.
• Do looks for ingredients that help decongest the skin and reduce redness. Salicylic Acid is a Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) that’s lipophilic, (oil loving). This enables the acid to penetrate blackheads and exfoliate in the pores. Salicylic Acid acts like a corkscrew, diving down into pores to clear impactions. Oatmeal, Hyaluronic Acid and botanicals help to soothe, ease redness and strengthen the skin.

Incorporating antioxidants such as Vitamin C into your men's skincare routine can also help protect against environmental damage and brighten skin tone. 

Professional skin treatments

Just as skincare is important for all skins, so are professional skin treatments - regular skin treatments with a professional skin therapist will ensure your skin is in its heathiest condition.

• Don’t see professional skin treatments as a “pampering” or “fluffy” service. A professional skin treatment combines advanced ingredients, techniques and technology for powerful results, especially for chronic conditions such as breakouts and redness.
• Do invest in skin treatments and partner with a professional skin therapist. Our PRO Clear targeted treatment addresses all types of breakouts with a thorough, clearing skin treatment. Whether skin is congested with blackheads or active breakouts, PRO Clear helps clear and calm skin’s congestion and post-breakout inflammation, using professional-grade actives and skin soothing techniques, such as lymphatic drainage massage. For a complimentary professional skin analysis and recommended skincare routine, reach out to your local Dermalogica professional skin therapist. You can find your nearest Dermalogica treatment centre via our store locator.

our top skincare picks for male skin:

• Special Cleansing Gel: You can’t go wrong with Dermalogica’s most popular cleanser, Special Cleansing Gel. Every skin can use this soap free foaming cleanser – it leaves skin clean, without feeling stripped or sensitised. It loves water, making it easy to use in the shower and it’s fluffy, light consistency means it can double up as a shaving foam. Be sure to only use a small amount of gel and plenty of water, to create the perfect foam.

• UltraCalming Mist: This cooling, hydrating toner reduces redness fast, making it great to use post-shave and throughout the day.

• Awaken Peptide Eye Gel: This firming and hydrating eye gel, featuring Peptides and Caffeine, helps minimise the appearance of puffiness and fine lines. It’ll help you look more well rested in just 10 minutes, but more importantly, it delivers on long term, visible results. Use in the morning on a clean skin when puffiness is most notable.

• AGE Bright Clearing Serum: A potent lightweight treatment to help clear breakouts and blackheads and smooth skin. 2% Salicylic Acid helps clear pores and reduce breakouts, whilst Niacinamide works together with White Shiitake Mushroom to promote brighter, more even skin tone. It can be used one to two times a day, applying before your moisturiser.

• Calm Water Gel: An ultra-light weight, ultra-hydrating, gel-based moisturiser that quenches the skin like a cooling glass of water. This almost invisible moisturiser contains Dual Hyaluronic Acid technology alongside soothing botanicals, making it a tremendous post-shave remedy and moisturiser in one.

• Dynamic Skin Recovery SPF50: Mother nature gave men great collagen so it’s only right to prolong and preserve it by protecting against the number one cause of skin ageing – the sun. This daytime moisturiser and sunscreen in one makes sun protection easy. It’s hydrating, non-greasy and packed with ingredients that help minimise signs of skin ageing. UV Rays are present all year, not just when it’s hot and sunny, making sunscreen a daily skincare essential.

Taking care of your skin isn't just a luxury; it's a necessity for every man. Understanding men's skin and men's face care can help you choose the right products and establish an effective men's skincare routine. From cleansers and moisturisers to targeted treatments and sun protection, a consistent routine can significantly improve your skin's health and appearance. 

The benefits of good skincare extend beyond aesthetics. Healthy skin can enhance your confidence and overall well-being, making you feel more comfortable in your own skin. Don't overlook the importance of professional skin treatments, as they can address specific concerns and help maintain your skin's vitality. Start your journey or help the man in your life start his journey to healthier skin today!