Is There an Actual Difference Between Male and Female Skin Care?
Women's skin care products focus more dry skin and on hydration and moisture.
Why? Women in general have lower sebum production than men.
When looking at the ingredients in skincare products, because females are more likely to experience adult acne from hormonal changes, many women’s products often have ingredients that help with exfoliation and acne-fighting ingredients in the formulations.
Many don’t realize that men have a gradual decline in collagen levels starting at a young age in men.
Aside from the most obvious like packaging, fragrance, and product names the formulas in male skin care often differ from those for women because male and female skin do have differences.
How Does Male and Female Skin Differ?
The oil glands in men are more active, allowing for greater innate moisture. Men's skin is also 25% thicker due to higher collagen content. Aging is more gradual from a young age in men, whereas women's skin maintains thickness and lipid content consistently until menopause, when decreasing estrogen levels cause significant changes.
Some simple tips for male skincare are:
Tip #1: Stop Cleansing With Bar Soap
Most bar soaps can be very drying to the skin. I never recommend using these for the face. Leave your bar soap in the shower and use for your body only.
Tip #2: Moisturize Regularly
No matter your skin type, moisturizing daily is a must. Keeping your skin hydrated can help slow the signs of aging. After cleansing and when the skin is still slightly damp apply moisturizer.
Tip #3: Don’t Skip Retinoids
Prevention is key. I like to start my male patients on retinol or retinoids early. Retinol can increase the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight, so I only recommend applying at night and wearing a sunscreen with at least SPF 50 during the day.
The Summary: some products are unisex. Always speak with your Board Certified Dermatologist and look at the specific ingredients and use skincare products depending on your skin’s specific needs.