When it comes to male skin care, simple has always been better. However, more men are now looking for healthier, younger-looking skin, making it a great time for men to evaluate their skin care routine and learn more about how to take care of their body’s largest organ.
Although there are key differences between men and women’s skin — for example, men’s skin is thicker than women’s — the basic elements of an effective skin care plan remain the same.
First, it’s important that everyone identifies and understands their skin type:
Sensitive skin may sting or burn after product use
Normal skin is clear and not sensitively
Dry skin is flaky, itchy or rough
Oily skin is shiny and greasy
Combination skin is dry in some areas and oily in others
If you’ve not read my skin type blog, read it here and find out exactly what skin type you have
Understanding your skin type will help you learn how to take care of your skin and select skin care products that are right for you.
To help men develop healthy skin care routines, I recommend the following tips:
Consider product labels and ingredients. The skin care products you choose will depend on your skin type. If you have acne-prone skin, look for cleansers and moisturisers that say “oil free” or “non-comedogenic,” as these won’t clog your pores. If you have sensitive skin, use mild, “fragrance free” products, as products containing fragrances can leave skin feeling irritated and dry. However, beware of products labeled “unscented,” as many of these contain masking fragrances that can still irritate your skin.
Wash your face daily and after exercise. Because regular soap often contains harsh ingredients that can be drying to the skin, wash your face with a mild facial cleanser and lukewarm — not hot — water.
Watch your shaving technique. For some men, multi-blade razors can work too well or shave too closely to your skin. If you often experience razor bumps, razor burns, or ingrown hairs, use a single- or double-blade razor instead and do not stretch your skin taut while shaving. Before you shave, wet your skin and hair to soften it. Use a moisturising shaving cream and shave in the direction of hair growth. Rinse after each swipe of the razor, and change your blade after five to seven shaves to minimise irritation.
Moisturise daily. Moisturiser works by trapping water in your skin, which can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and make your skin look brighter and younger. For the best results, apply moisturiser to your face and body immediately after bathing, showering or shaving while the skin is still damp.
Check your skin regularly. New spots or moles that itch, bleed, or change colour are often early warning signs of skin cancer. If you notice any suspicious spots, make an appointment to see a gp. Men over age 50 have a higher risk of developing melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, than the general population. However, when caught early, skin cancer is highly treatable.
Wear sunscreen whenever outdoors. To help prevent sun damage that can lead to wrinkles, age spots and even skin cancer, before going outdoors, apply sunscreen to all exposed areas of skin, including your scalp, ears, neck and lips. For best protection, use a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 50 and reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating. You can also protect your skin by seeking shade and wearing sun-protective clothing, such as a lightweight and long-sleeved shirt, trousers, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses with UV protection, when possible.
For guys who want to take their grooming game to the next level, there's a whole world of treatments waiting to be explored.
Here are my top four picks for men who want to feel confident and look their best:
1. The Bacial: Back to Basics (and Beyond)
Let's face it, guys, our backs can take a beating. Sweat, clogged pores, and ingrown hairs can leave your back feeling rough and irritated. Enter the Bacial, a facial specifically designed for the hard-to-reach back area. This treatment combines deep cleansing, extractions, and a relaxing shoulder massage to leave your back feeling smoother, clearer, and invigorated.
2. Chemically Correct: Chemical Peel & LED Light Therapy Powerhouse
Want to combat dullness, fine lines, and uneven skin tone? A chemical peel is a fantastic option. This treatment uses a controlled application of acids to gently remove the top layer of dead skin cells, revealing a brighter, smoother complexion underneath. Pair it with an LED light therapy session to supercharge the results. LED light therapy uses different wavelengths of light to promote collagen production and reduce inflammation, leaving your skin looking revitalised.
3. Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow (Maybe): Hair Rejuvenation Needling
Hair loss is a common concern for men. Hair rejuvenation needling is a minimally invasive treatment that can help. This process uses tiny needles to create micro-channels in the scalp, stimulating blood flow and encouraging hair growth. It's a great option for those looking to prevent further hair loss or even see some regrowth.
4. Radio Frequency to the Rescue: Microneedling for a Tighter You
As we age, our skin loses elasticity, leading to sagging and wrinkles, especially in the lower face.
Radiofrequency microneedling tackles this head-on. This treatment combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy to stimulate collagen production and tighten the skin. The result? A firmer, more youthful-looking jawline and a renewed sense of confidence.
These are just a few of the many amazing male skincare treatments available. So ditch the razor bumps and embrace the possibilities!
Every man’s skin is different, and there is no "one size fits all" approach to skin care. If you aren’t sure what skin type you have, or if have questions about how to take care of your skin, I’m always happy to help.
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