Skincare is no longer just for women – more men than ever realize the importance of taking care of their skin. Men have on average about 20% thicker skin than women and higher sebum production, affecting everything from acne to enlarged pores. The good news? You don't have to complicate it – we'll show you how to get started with a simple and effective routine.
Common skin concerns for men and how to solve them
Dry skin in men
Dry skin is a common problem, especially during the winter months when cold and dry air can quickly drain the skin of moisture. For men, it can sometimes be extra challenging because male skin is generally about 20% thicker than female skin and contains more sebaceous glands – making the skin feel tight while also being prone to surface dryness.
This combination means dry skin isn't always obvious right away, but it can present symptoms like flaking, itching, tightness, or redness. Shaving can also worsen the condition, especially if you use drying products or shave without moisturizing your skin afterward.
The solution? A skincare routine tailored for male skin. Invest in a mild, hydrating Facial Cleanser that doesn't strip the skin, followed by a rich yet fast-absorbing Face Cream. During winter, it's also smart to add a hydrating Serum or Face Oil to further strengthen the skin barrier.
With the right products, dry skin becomes a thing of the past – giving your skin the balance and comfort it needs.
Enlarged pores and oily skin
Many men feel that their skin looks shiny during the day and that their pores appear larger than desired. This is primarily because men have more active sebum production – driven by the male hormone testosterone. When sebum production is high, pores tend to stretch out, making them more visible. This can also lead to the skin feeling greasy and shiny, particularly in the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin).
But there is something you can do about it. The key is using the right ingredients in your skincare routine. Two of the most effective are:
- BHA (Salicylic Acid): An oil-soluble acid that penetrates deep into the pores, dissolving sebum and dead skin cells. This makes pores appear smaller and reduces the risk of clogged pores and breakouts.
- Niacinamide: A form of Vitamin B3 that regulates sebum production, improves skin texture, and minimizes the appearance of pores over time. It also strengthens the skin barrier and has a soothing effect.
A daily skincare routine with cleansing, BHA exfoliation a couple of times a week, and a moisturizer with Niacinamide can make a huge difference. With regular use, the skin becomes more balanced, less shiny, and pores are minimized, all without drying out the skin.
Read more about how to remove blackheads on the nose here.
Adult acne or blemishes
Even though acne is often associated with the teenage years, many men suffer from blemishes, pimples, or breakouts well into adulthood. This is mainly due to hormonal factors – primarily testosterone – which stimulate sebaceous glands to produce more oil. When excess sebum mixes with dead skin cells, pores can clog, creating a breeding ground for inflammation and bacterial growth.
To counteract this, cleansing and exfoliation are two fundamental steps you should never skip:
- Daily cleansing: Helps remove dirt, excess oil, and bacteria that gather on the skin throughout the day. A gentle but effective cleanser tailored for oily and acne-prone skin is ideal.
- Exfoliation (2-3 times a week): Chemical exfoliation with BHA (Salicylic Acid) is highly effective as it deeply penetrates pores to dissolve sebum, reducing the risk of clogged pores and breakouts.
Feel free to complement this with a Serum containing