Do men and women really have different skin?

• November 6, 2023

Does your gender really make a difference in our skin? Guys, this one’s for you.

If you’re anything like us then you’ve probably shared a skincare product with your friend/ partner/ sibling. Some of us even share a skin routine. But have you really thought about what’s different between a man’s skin and a woman’s?

We asked Dr. Costi for some insight on the subject: Does your gender make a difference in our skin? Yes!

There are indeed significant structural differences between men’s and women’s skin, and these differences go beyond just the presence of facial hair. Androgen stimulation (primarily testosterone) plays a crucial role in these distinctions. Here’s what you need to know.

Skin Thickness and texture

Men’s skin is about 25% thicker than women’s, primarily due to androgen stimulation (male hormones). This increased thickness makes men’s skin generally tougher in texture.

Acne in men

Sebum, the natural oil produced by the skin, differs in production between genders. After puberty, men tend to produce more sebum compared to women, mainly due to androgen secretions. This higher sebum production is one of the reasons why men often experience longer-lasting acne. Despite having smaller oil-secreting sebaceous glands, men generally have oilier skin.

Ducray Keracnyl Gel Moussant | Skin Perfection

Collagen density

Men maintain a higher collagen density throughout their lives in comparison to women and collagen is essential for maintaining skin’s elasticity and firmness. So this higher collagen content gives men an advantage in skin aging, making their skin appear more youthful. It has even been suggested that a woman’s skin may look about 15 years older than a man’s of the same age due to this difference. Now that’s just unfair!!

However, there’s a catch. Men tend to be less vigilant about sun protection than women. UV damage from the sun can add years to a man’s skin, offsetting the benefits of their naturally higher collagen density. It’s important for men to realize the importance of sunscreen to preserve their youthful appearance and protect against harmful UV rays.

Vichy Capital Soleil UV – Age Anti Ageing Sunscreen SPF 50+ with Niacinamide 40ml | Skin Perfection

Shaving as a skincare advantage

Shaving can give men an extra edge in skincare, as it provides intense exfoliation of the outer skin layers, leading to a more youthful skin appearance. This process removes dead skin cells, promoting a smoother complexion. However, it’s crucial to be cautious while shaving to prevent irritation and ingrown hairs.

Can men and women share the same skincare products?

Basic skincare products: For many basic skincare products like cleansers, moisturizers, and sunscreen, there’s often no need for gender-specific formulations. These products cater to general skin types and concerns, such as dryness, oiliness, or sensitivity, which can affect both men and women.

Eucerin Aquaphor Jar Soothing Skin Balm | Skin Perfection

Hormonal differences: Women might occasionally require products that address hormonal fluctuations, like those related to pregnancy or menopause. Men, on the other hand, might benefit from products that target specific concerns related to their higher sebum production.

Sunscreen is universal: Regardless of gender, sunscreen is a non-negotiable skincare product. Both men and women should use a broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect their skin from harmful UV rays, which can accelerate skin aging and increase the risk of skin cancer.

So in the end, while we can have some fun sharing our products with our significant other, it comes down to “one size does not fit all”. Personalization based on your skin’s unique requirements is key to maintaining healthy and radiant skin.

And if you need a personal recommendation or have questions about the best skincare routine for men, don’t hesitate to book your appointment with Dr. Costi.