Healthy, youthful-looking skin not only boosts your confidence but also plays an important role in your overall mental wellbeing.
We’re so happy to see more and more men booking skin consultations and learning how to keep their skin looking its best. Luckily, gone are the days when skincare was just a woman's domain! Taking care of your skin isn't just about vanity, it's part of your personal care and health.
While the basic structure of men's and women's skin is the same, there are several key differences that can affect their appearance and how they should be cared for including thickness, oiliness, collagen density, hair follicles, sweat glands, skin pH and more. This means that men's skin has unique needs and with adequate care, you can target specific concerns and improve your complexion.
Tip #1: Take advantage of powerful in-clinic treatments
Regularly visiting a skin clinic can be very beneficial. Treatments like bespoke facials, chemical peels and laser resurfacing procedures can help address specific skin concerns such as acne, sagging, pigmentation, redness, wrinkles and more. Regular facial treatments can also prevent these issues from appearing in the first place. Think of your at-home skincare routine as the daily maintenance that keeps your skin healthy and clean, while in-clinic treatments are like the deep cleaning and fine-tuning that enhance your results. Facial treatments can reach deeper layers of the skin that at-home products can't, offering more dramatic and long-lasting results.
Tip #2: Shaving the right way
Shaving can be harsh on the skin, causing irritation, redness and inflammation. Always start by preparing your skin with warm water and a pre-shave oil or cream. Always use a sharp, clean razor and shave in the direction of hair growth. Avoid applying too much pressure, rinse with cold water when you finish, following up with an appropriate moisturiser, preferably recommended by an aesthetic practitioner.
Tip #3: Remember post-workout skincare
Post-workout skincare is crucial because during exercise, the skin is exposed to sweat, bacteria and friction, which can lead to skin issues. Sweat can mix with dirt, oil and dead skin cells, potentially causing clogged pores, acne and irritation. Always shower immediately after working out and use a gentle, pH-appropriate cleanser to remove sweat and bacteria.
Tip #4: Don’t forget beard care
Beard care is not just about maintaining a well-groomed look, it also plays a role in skincare. Facial hair, particularly a dense beard, can trap dirt, sweat and bacteria, which can lead to skin irritation and congestion. The skin beneath the beard can become dry and flaky without proper care, leading to "beardruff" which is not unsightly but uncomfortable. Daily cleansing and use of a beard oil or balm nourishes the skin and hair, and when your beard is softer and more manageable, you prevent issues like ingrown hairs and make grooming easier.
Tip #5: Treating oily skin
Men's skin is generally oilier than women's, it’s not a myth. This is mainly due to more testosterone, larger pores and more active sebaceous glands. Genetics, diet, stress levels and other factors can all influence sebum production. Consulting with a good aesthetic practitioner can be highly beneficial when managing oily skin. Skin specialists can provide professional assessments, customised skincare routines, facial treatments and advice on preventative care, all of which can help address the unique needs of oily skin.
Remember that skincare never has a one-size-fits-all solution. It’s important to understand your skin's unique needs and tailor your treatments accordingly. Consistent, focused skincare, combined with treatments, can significantly improve the health and appearance of your skin. Unsure where to start? Book a skin consultation.