Skin Care Tips for Men
Men are now eagerly trying to be well-groomed and adventurous in their choices to look their best. Though the main concern with men is still their hair, skin sagging, aging, and pigmentation are gradually now other critical concerns.
Dr. Rashmi Shetty says, “Almost 30% of my patients are men. And why not?”
The skincare industry has also recognized a huge potential in the male grooming market. We now have male skincare products that cater to their skin and lifestyle specifically.
Is there any difference in the male and female skincare products?
Is it necessary for them to be different?
Before we answer these questions, let us first try to understand the skin structure:
In layman terms, your skin is essentially a layered structure. It is the same in a man and a woman.
However, the difference lies the hormone metabolism, hair growth pattern, sweat rate, production of sebum, surface pH, and fat accumulation.
- Men skin is roughly 20% thicker than women skin
- Men have a higher proportion of elastin and collagen.
- Women have a thicker layer of subcutaneous fat than men.
Men have higher collagen and lose collagen at a slower rate than women when past middle age.
- Men are more prone to develop alopecia (hair loss) and acne.
- Men sweat more and are more prone to develop acne.
- As men sweat more, it creates an environment favourable for bacterial growth. This could result in the production of odour. It is one of the reasons why cosmetic products for men have a strong fragrance.
- Men usually have more body hair that results in a higher body surface area for bacterial growth. Antibacterial soaps are highly popular with men.
Due to these differences, the market is now flooded with ‘gender-specific skincare products’ which are made acknowledging these variances promising maximum benefit when one uses them for a specific purpose.
Once the diagnosis is done, the next step is to commence the treatment.
The most popular skin and hair care for men are:
Moisturizers: Regular use of razors results in dry skin.
Beard conditioners: Soften the beard hair and the underneath skin.
Aftershave lotions: Soften and smoothen the skin.
Sunscreen: Sun protection from tanning and pigmentation.
Skin lightening creams
Anti-aging creams: Reduce the fine lines and crow’s feet.
How are skincare products made unique to men?
Fragrance: Products for men have a strong odour. Women prefer a flowery-smelling cream or lotion as against men who would usually prefer a strong fragrance.
Packaging: The skincare products for men have more geometric shape compared to the female cosmetic product
Personal Habits: Women tend to be quite emotional with their purchasing, whereas men are more technical and functional. Men look for products that will give them results.
Ingredients: Men prefer invisible products, penetrates quickly, are easy to use, are less process-oriented, and have a visible effect.
Hence the skincare products modify ingredients according to this though the type of ingredients remains the same. Maybe, the alcohol content could be higher to give a cooler after-feel. Men prefer creams that seep in rapidly. Thus, men generally prefer a lightweight cream. A woman would apply a heavy creamy lotion which would leave a velvety after-feel. The ingredients are the same; the only difference lies in the composition and the preferences.
Preferences & Needs: The difference in cosmetic products could be designed based on needs. Men need aftershave lotions to keep their skin smooth.
Skin Functionality: Trans-epidermal water loss is the epidermal barrier that is weaker in men compared to females. The male hormone testosterone can have unwanted effects on the epidermal barrier function. Hence male skincare products must aid in protecting the epidermal barrier layer.
There are a variety of gender-specific products available in the market. But all products serve the same purpose. They either cleanse or moisturize the skin, protect it from the sun, or reduce wrinkles. You could exchange products, but only if it serves your purpose and suits your skin type.
For example, a woman having dry skin will benefit from using a heavy moisturizer, while a man could result in an acne outbreak. The average male skin is more oily.
Dr Rashmi Shetty says, “If a product that you are currently using suits you, then it is advisable to not switch to another product. Whatever product you choose, do it wisely and continue using it for the best results.”
Ra Supplements for men skin & haircare
- RA Hydrate– restores skin elasticity, preserves moisture, improves hydration, protects from UV damage.
- RA Bright – combines four powerful antioxidants to minimize free radical damage, brighten & lighten skin, protect skin from sun damage.
- RA Anagen–arrests hair fall, strengthens hair follicles, and improves hair health, apart from rebuilding & nourishing the skin.
In case of a doubt regarding your skin or hair care products, consult your dermatologist. Your doctor can correctly guide you in selecting wisely.
So to all the men out there, go ahead and PAMPER your skin in the right way.
Credit: Audio notes provided by Dr Rashmi Shetty
Dr Rashmi Shetty, a specialist dermatologist, is an international speaker, teacher, and author with over 18 years of aesthetic and clinical dermatology experience.
For more such tips and information from Dr Rashmi Shetty, follow her on
https://www.instagram.com/ drrashmishettyra/
https://www.quora.com/profile/ Rashmi-Shetty-297
You can also call on 09833055236 to book an appointment
If you have any questions or clarifications after reading this article, please comment.
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