This article is originally posted on Proven Skincare.
AS DIFFERENT AS NIGHT AND DAY?
Gentlemen. You may not be as tough as you think. Relax - we're referring
to your skin.
A big misconception is that a man’s skin is “tougher” than a woman’s. In
fact, while overall, men have 20% thicker skin than women, men’s skin is
more susceptible to sensitivity, skin conditions and infection.
Surprised? Here’s why…
YOUR GENETICS DETERMINE YOUR SKIN
Skin sensitivity is a big part of your genetic makeup. Men’s skin tends to
have higher sebum production (oilier skin) and larger pores which can lead
to skin conditions and irritation. This is related to high testosterone levels.
Depending on these levels, everything from skin texture, hydration, pH,
aging and more will be affected.
And, of course, another major difference is because of shaving habits and
facial hair, something women don’t deal with, at least not on a daily basis.
On average, men will shave their faces over 10,000 times in their lifetimes.
This leads to more sensitive skin and many men will opt for beards to avoid
shaving or to cover irritation or conditions. Daily shaving can also lead to
skin trauma, micro cuts and inflammation as well as bacterial and viral
infections not normally seen in women.
The American Dermatology Association reports that wounds from skin
trauma take longer to heal in men than women due to the additional and
daily manipulation of skin. Male skin also has more sensitivity to ultraviolet
light than female skin, contributing to more rapid signs of aging as well as
an increased risk for skin cancer.
Male skin has higher collagen levels, yet that collagen decreases steadily
as skin ages. This causes a more “weathered” look and because of the
thicker texture, wrinkles appear more prominently, primarily on the
forehead. Expression lines are more pronounced and eyelids tend to droop
faster. Female skin, though thinner, has stronger collagen and estrogen
levels. These remain steady until menopause when skin thins dramatically,
breaking down collagen, elasticity and hydration levels due to dropping
estrogen levels.
HOW CAN I TAKE CARE OF MY SKIN WITH THESE
DIFFERENCES IN MIND?
Basically, men need to pay more attention to their skin. Despite the
differences in skin, women’s skin tends to look better longer because of
their routines and habits. Women seek out targeted skincare, specifically
formulated for their skin type and concerns. They have dermatologists on
speed dial and research the latest medical and cosmetic procedures. And,
they use SPF products. Men rarely do any of these things.
WHAT TO AVOID
Menthol
Steer away from skincare that contains menthol, denatured alcohol,
peppermint or eucalyptus. These ingredients can irritate skin, so can highly
fragranced products. Also avoid facial scrubs as these can cause micro
tears and additional irritation on skin. Pass on the all-in-one products.
These formulas can also be rough on skin.
Hot Water
When shaving, wash your face with a gentle cleanser first, to help soften
hair. Shave at the end of your shower when your skin is most hydrated.
Avoid using hot water, as it can cause redness and drying. Use a clean
razor, rinsing it repeatedly and replace blade often. Follow with a fragrance
free, gentle moisturizer with SPF in the AM, and use a moisturizer,
specifically formulated for night use, before bedtime.
