Understanding Men’s Skin Care

Skin is the body’s largest organ, and it benefits from care regardless of gender. Men’s skin has some particular features: it tends to be thicker and oilier, and for many it is shaved most days. A short, well-chosen routine keeps it comfortable, reduces irritation and lowers the risk of sun damage and skin cancer.

How men’s skin differs

Under the influence of testosterone, men’s skin is generally thicker, produces more oil and has larger pores and coarser facial hair. In practice this means a greater tendency to shine and clogged pores, and regular friction from shaving. The principles of care are the same for everyone; the product textures that feel best may differ.

Identify your skin type

The American Academy of Dermatology describes five types:

• Sensitive skin may sting or burn after product use.
• Normal skin is clear and not sensitive.
• Dry skin is flaky, itchy or rough.
• Oily skin is shiny and greasy.
• Combination skin is dry in some areas and oily in others.

For more detail, see our guide on how to identify your skin type.

The core routine

Cleanse

Wash your face each day and after exercise. Use a mild facial cleanser and lukewarm water; ordinary bar soap can be harsh and drying. Our Gentle Foaming Cleanser is suitable for daily use.

Moisturize

Moisturizer traps water in the skin, reducing the look of fine lines and making skin look healthier. Apply to the face and body straight after bathing or shaving, while the skin is still damp. Oily skin still needs moisture; choose a light, oil-free lotion. Our Men’s Daily Face Moisturizer has a matte finish.

Protect

Sun exposure causes wrinkles, age spots and skin cancer. Before going outdoors, apply sunscreen to all exposed skin, including the scalp, ears, neck and lips. Dermatologists recommend a product that is:

• broad-spectrum, protecting against UVA and UVB;
• SPF 30 or higher;
• water-resistant.

Reapply every two hours and after swimming or sweating. Seek shade, and wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and protective clothing. See Daily Sunscreen SPF 50.

Shaving without irritation

Dermatologists’ tips:

1. Wet first. Shave after a shower, when skin is warm and hair is soft.
2. Use a shaving cream or gel. Look for “sensitive skin” on the label if yours is dry or easily irritated. See Sensitive Shaving Gel.
3. Shave in the direction the hair grows.
4. Rinse after each swipe of the razor.
5. Change the blade after five to seven shaves. See 5-Blade Razor with 4 Cartridges.
6. Store the razor dry to prevent bacteria growing on it.

Razor bumps and ingrown hairs

These occur when cut hairs curl back into the skin, and are more common in men with tightly curled hair. To reduce them:

• shave with the grain and do not pull the skin taut;
• use a sharp blade and avoid going over the same area repeatedly;
• consider a single-blade or electric razor, or leaving slightly more length;
• shave less often if you can.

See a dermatologist if bumps persist or leave dark marks or scars.

Beard care

The skin under a beard still needs washing and moisturizing. Cleanse it when you wash your face, dry it well, and use a few drops of Nourishing Beard Oil if it feels dry or itchy.

Common skin concerns in men

Acne

Not limited to teenagers. Wash twice a day and after sweating, use oil-free, non-comedogenic products and do not pick. Over-the-counter treatments with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid help mild acne; see a dermatologist if it is severe or scarring.

Oiliness

Use a gentle foaming cleanser, avoid harsh scrubs and choose light, oil-free moisturizers and sunscreens.

Dryness

Shorten hot showers, switch to a creamier cleanser and moisturize promptly.

Folliculitis and fungal infections

Red bumps around hair follicles, itchy rashes in the groin or between the toes, and jock itch are common in active men. Keep skin clean and dry and ask a pharmacist about treatment.

Check your skin

The CDC notes that anyone can get skin cancer. Examine your skin regularly, including the scalp, ears, back and soles. Use a mirror or ask a partner. Look for:

• a new spot;
• a mole that changes in size, shape or color;
• a spot that itches, bleeds or does not heal.

Report these to a dermatologist. Skin cancer is highly treatable when found early.

Product tips

• Keep the routine short enough that you will do it every day.
• Introduce new products one at a time.
• “Fragrance-free” is preferable to “unscented” for sensitive skin.
• Aftershaves with a high alcohol content can sting and dry the skin; a moisturizer is often a better finish.

Lifestyle and skin

Do not smoke, limit alcohol, eat a balanced diet, drink enough water and get enough sleep. Each shows in the skin.

When to see a dermatologist

• Acne that does not respond to over-the-counter treatment
• Persistent rashes, itching or scaling
• Razor bumps that will not settle
• Any suspicious or changing spot
• Excessive sweating

The bottom line

Cleanse, moisturize and use sunscreen every day; shave with care; check your skin regularly. A simple routine prevents most common problems. Find the essentials in our men’s health department.

Sources

1. American Academy of Dermatology. Skin care tips for men.
2. American Academy of Dermatology. Hair removal: How to shave.
3. American Academy of Dermatology. Razor bump remedies for men with darker skin tones.
4. American Academy of Dermatology. Sunscreen FAQs.
5. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Reducing Risk for Skin Cancer.