We asked our experts how to best care for a man’s skin, and here’s what they said.
Q: What are some variables that must be considered when making skincare recommendations for male clients?
A: “Regardless of gender, current skin status, exercise habits, nutrition, age, home geography, and climate must be considered. In general, young men have high levels of sebum production and higher pH, so ingredients that are designed to down-regulate 5-alpha reductase, slow sebum production, reduce shine, and reduce surface proliferation of p-acnes bacteria would be beneficial. Microbiome-balancing products are often recommended because many skin conditions result from imbalances in the 1.5 trillion microorganisms that call the surface of the skin home. Men require effective delivery systems that can penetrate characteristically thicker skin and smaller oil glands.” —Michael Bruggeman, CEO and chief formulation officer, OM4 Organic Male
Q: What products are best for men with mature skin?
A: “Men with mature skin will eventually experience deeper wrinkles because of the skin roughness and textural differences, despite higher levels of collagen and elastin. Wrinkle reduction and firming actives will become more important with age, along with actives that stimulate the skin’s ability to produce collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid.” —Bruggeman
Q: What are some ways to improve male skin’s rough texture?
A: “I recommend using a natural foam scrub with non-synthetic particles to remove dead cells, refine the texture, and oxygenate the skin. Some of the most-effective facial scrubs feature licorice root, which has a purifying effect to the skin. Its compound licochalcone inhibits tyrosinase so the skin stays bright and even-toned. Natural particles from bamboo silica and jojoba beads are also effective skin polishers. Their non-jagged edges will not agitate the skin, even sensitive skin. Other effective ingredients for oily skin include rosemary and citrus essential oils, which bring a gentle lyposolvent action without overdrying and creating new skin imbalances as a result.” —Katherine Tomasso, national director of education, Yon-Ka