It’s important to acknowledge that men and women have inherent differences, extending from their physical appearance to their skin composition. While male and female skin definitely have differences, they also share some similarities. Both genders desire healthy-looking skin and experience common skin issues like sensitivity, acne, and aging. However, male skin is influenced by the hormone testosterone, which imparts masculine characteristics.
Facial Hair
Although women have facial hair to some degree, it is typically not as thick or coarse as that of men. Daily shaving stresses the skin and can cause irritation, nicks, cuts, razor burn, and bumps. That’s probably why most of the products men use are centered on their facial hair.
Thicker Skin
On average, male skin is about 20 – 25 percent thicker than women’s, and it has a tougher texture. Additionally, male skin contains more collagen, which gives it a tighter, firmer appearance. Interestingly, however, the collagen in a man’s skin reduces at a constant rate over the years, while the collagen content in female skin reduces later in life, mostly after menopause. Because the thinning is more dramatic over a shorter period of time, the effects of collagen reduction in female skin is more pronounced.
Oiliness
Sebum (oil) production in men is double that of women, and they have more and larger pores. This means that not only is male skin oilier and shinier than female skin but it is also more prone to acne and less prone to dry skin.
Aging
The higher collagen density in male skin means that it ages slower than female skin. In fact, a woman’s skin is about 15 years older than a man’s of the same age. However, since men are less sun savvy than women and don’t typically use sunscreen, the “15 year” skin age difference is not readily noticed. UV damage from the sun can add years to a man’s skin and negate the benefit of slowed intrinsic aging.
Caring for Male Skin.
To look at all the skincare advertising and packaging out there, you’d think that only women have a need for a skincare routine. But that just isn’t so. Because of their unique differences, male skin could also benefit from a tailored skin care routine to help keep their skin at its natural best.
One of the biggest areas where male skin could benefit is in shaving. Careful shaving is important, particularly for those with sensitive skin or skin conditions. Here are some tips:
- First, protect and lubricate the skin with quality shaving products to help the razor glide smoothly over your skin to help avoid nicks and cuts.
- Be sure to use products that are mild and soothing, with antibacterial properties to protect your skin from irritations.
- Always use a clean, sharp razor. This will not only give you the closest shave, but will help you avoid razor burn and bumps.
- And contrary to what many men have been taught, always shave in the direction hair grows, not against it.
To keep skin looking its best for many years to come, men should also consider using moisturizers and anti-aging products specifically tailored for men. These products should be light in texture because heavy, greasy products can aggravate male skin that has been sensitized by shaving.
If you would like more information on how to properly care for male skin, click here to schedule an appointment with Dermatology Associates.
Dermatology Associates offers a full spectrum of leading-edge medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology services from offices in Savannah and Vidalia.
