The beauty regime is different for both men and women. Shahnaz Husain explains why there is a difference in the skincare routine and how to keep the skin healthy!
There is this saying, “You can’t hide bad skin with a beard”, which is very true! A few men think that skincare is a “Woman” thing but no, that’s not true. Today, skincare and beauty routines are not exclusive to only one gender. Like women, men too go through distinct skincare concerns. However, there is a lot of difference in the skin of women and men. Both have different skincare needs and concerns. Both of them need to understand these differences. Further, on this basis, personalized skincare routines are developed, which promote optimal skin health by understanding the needs of each individual.
Women vs Men Skincare Routine
Now, just like there are hormonal variations between men and women. Testosterone levels are slightly higher in men. This hormone can cause thicker and more oily skin. Due to this, men have more problems with acne, blackheads, and enlarged pores.
Hormonal fluctuations in women occur during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause. Due to this, various problems arise in the skin of women. Hormonal changes may contribute to issues such as an increase in dryness and acne breakouts.
Difference of Ageing and Skin Texture: Men have thicker skin due to higher collagen density. However, men are also more susceptible to signs of ageing caused by sun exposure and other factors.
Women have thin skin and hence lack collagen and elastin, due to which their skin starts becoming loose, and fine lines and wrinkles start appearing on the skin. Hormonal changes accelerate skin ageing by reducing the production of collagen.
Difference of Shaving and Hair Removal: Shaving is a common grooming practice for men, but if done incorrectly, it can sometimes cause irritation, razor burn, and ingrown hairs. Using a sharp razor and moisturizing after shaving can reduce this irritation. Women take shaving, waxing and other treatments to remove unwanted hair. These methods can also cause skin irritation, redness, and ingrown hairs. Proper exfoliation and moisturization are essential for preventing ingrown hairs and soothing irritated skin.
Differences in Skincare Products and Ingredients: Men’s skincare products are often formulated with simpler ingredients and targeted towards specific concerns like oiliness and sensitivity. Men tend to prefer products that are easy to use and have a non-greasy texture. Women’s skincare products come in a wider variety of formulations and target a broader range of concerns, including anti-aging, hydration, and brightening. Women often incorporate serums, masks, and specialized treatments into their skincare routines to address specific needs.
Sun Protection: The effects of UV radiation can affect both men’s and women’s skin. But men use less sunscreen than women, due to which they are more at risk of sunburn and premature aging. Women are more diligent about sun protection and often use moisturizers, makeup, or standalone sunscreens with SPF to shield their skin from UV rays. Regular sun protection is crucial for preventing sun damage and maintaining healthy, youthful-looking skin.
Can Men Use Women’s Skincare Products?
Skincare products for women contain certain active ingredients that address different skin concerns. Some products may work on men’s skin also, but it is important to keep in mind that there is a lot of difference in the skin texture of both. Some ingredients found in women’s skin products may not work as they are for women. Women’s skincare products are more moisturizing to keep the skin smooth. These can clog your skin leading to breakouts. Although gender-neutral natural products are there but your best bet is to use men’s products intended for you!
Personalized Skincare Routine for Men and Women
Know Your Skin Type: Determining your skin type is the most important and basic step. select appropriate skincare products and treatments if your skin is oily, dry, combination, or sensitive.
Tailor Your Skincare Routine For Common Skin Problems
Tailoring your skincare routine to address specific concerns such as acne, aging, pigmentation, or sensitivity is essential for achieving healthy, radiant skin. By selecting targeted products and incorporating appropriate treatments, you can effectively address your skin’s unique needs and achieve the desired results.
Use Gentle Cleansers: Choosing a natural and gentle cleanser is essential for maintaining healthy, balanced skin, especially if you have sensitive or easily irritated skin. Natural cleansers are formulated with gentle, plant-based ingredients that effectively remove dirt, oil, and impurities without stripping the skin’s natural moisture barrier.
Cleansing oils are formulated with nourishing oils such as jojoba, argan, or coconut oil, which effectively dissolve makeup, sunscreen, and impurities without stripping the skin. They gently cleanse the skin while leaving it soft, hydrated, and balanced. Look for cleansing oils with non-comedogenic oils that won’t clog pores, making them suitable for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin.
Moisturize Daily:Moisturizing daily is essential for maintaining hydrated, healthy-looking skin, and using natural products can provide effective hydration without the use of harsh chemicals or synthetic ingredients. Natural moisturizers are formulated with nourishing plant-based oils, botanical extracts, and humectants that help replenish moisture, soothe dryness, and promote skin barrier function.
Apply Sunscreen: Sunscreen not only protects against sunburn and skin cancer but also helps maintain overall skin health. UV radiation can weaken the skin’s natural barrier function, leading to dehydration, inflammation, and sensitivity. By using sunscreen regularly, men can preserve the integrity of their skin barrier, keeping the skin hydrated, balanced, and resilient.
Sun exposure can lead to the development of hyperpigmentation, including dark spots, melasma, and uneven skin tone. Men are prone to hyperpigmentation, particularly on the face and hands, which can be exacerbated by unprotected sun exposure. Wearing sunscreen daily helps prevent the formation of dark spots and pigmentation irregularities, resulting in a more even and radiant complexion.
Skin care products for men and women, despite being the same, can be quite different. Men’s skincare products tend to be simpler and more focused on practicality, while women’s skincare routines often include a wide variety of products and treatments targeted to specific concerns and preferences.