Men’s Luxury Skincare UK: Tips For Healthy Skin

There have been great improvements in the availability and range of men’s luxury skincare in the UK in the last decade and in a 2018 survey conducted by GQ Magazine. It was reported that 19.7% of British men had purchased a grooming treatment in the past year.

But is men and women’s skin different and what should we look for in men’s luxury skincare?

IS MEN’S SKIN DIFFERENT TO WOMEN’S SKIN?

Men and women’s skin have different structural properties, caused by a difference in hormones and genetics and further altered by external factors such as facial hair, sun exposure and regular shaving. A 1997 study published in the Clinics in Dermatology scientific journal showed that men’s skin is approximately 25% thicker than women’s. This is directly linked to hormone levels. This results in male skin being able to retain moisture a lot longer than female skin. However, men also tend to have oilier skin than women. This is caused by a greater level of androgens such as testosterone and androstenedione which lead to a greater production of sebum. This can cause men to have more acne-prone skin, especially on the face, back and upper shoulders where oil production is at its highest.

Men also have naturally higher levels of collagen than women, which can help to reduce the signs of aging by improving levels of elasticity. However, according to Dr. Diana Howard of The International Dermal Institute, men are also much less likely to care for their skin or use suncream. This can reverse the benefits of naturally enhanced collagen. Although the difference in collagen levels can mean that men are less prone to wrinkles. A 2013 study published by the National Library of Medicine showed that men are more likely than women to have severe wrinkles in more muscular areas such as the forehead. As the skin is denser and the muscles more prominent, wrinkles can appear to be more defined, leading to older looking skin.

A scientific review of the ‘Impact of Testosterone on Hair and Skin’ states that skin having frequent contact with water has a negative effect on the skin’s natural protective barrier, the stratum corneum. Also, the testosterone plays no part in reducing this. This means that regularly wet shaving can lead to drier, patchy, and more irritable skin. However, testosterone is linked to higher levels of cell turnover. This allows dry areas to be treated more easily and returning to healthy, hydrated skin.

MEN’S LUXURY SKINCARE UK: 4 STEPS TO THE PERFECT SKINCARE ROUTINE

–          Cleanse

With an oilier skin than women, it is important for men to ensure skin is regularly cleansed. This removes the excess sebum and helps reduce acne. Opts for a cleanser which is designed for normal to oily skin. It does not contain any harsh chemicals or perfumes as these can result in excessive drying and increased skin irritability. A 2006 study published by the National Library of Medicine shows that if you remove too many of the skin’s natural oils, the production of your oil glands will increase. Overcompensating for the loss and will lead to even more oil on the skin’s outer layer. Cleansing your face twice a day is the best first step to any skincare routine for men. It leads to healthier looking skin.

–          Exfoliate

Exfoliation should always follow cleansing as a combination product can cause impurities to penetrate the skin further. Although cell turnover is more frequent in men. In addition, exfoliating helps to speed up the process. It removes the top layer of dead skin cells and making way for new ones. You only need to use Malée’s Verdure Conditioning Body Scrub just once a week. This will help maintain the frequency of cell turnover. The scrub contains natural exfoliators such as multi-grain salt. This works to gently buff away layers of dead skin cells. The cell renewal generation is increased and the fresh skin beneath is revealed. Enriched with essential oils , this luxury exfoliator can be used by men and women. It contains no harsh chemicals and artificial fragrances. Moreover, it helps to keep the skin hydrated and youthful without leading to excessive oil production.

–          Moisturise

Moisturiser is key to reducing the appearance of wrinkles. By adding water to the skin, fine lines are plumped, and wrinkles are less noticeable. For men who frequently shave, moisturiser can also be used repair the damage to certain areas. It helps in restoring the skin’s natural protection barrier. Malée’s Verdure Conditioning Body Cream used twice a day or after every shave. It assists in reinstating lost moisture, whilst keeping skin supple and smooth. Made from 100% natural ingredients and high in coconut oil and glycerin which help to attract and retain moisture. Your skin will be gently rehydrated and plumped. It helps in reducing the signs of aging and leaving it feeling silky smooth.

–          Apply suncream

The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) states that on average, only two out of three men regularly use sun protection. Frequent exposure to harsh UV rays can lead to many skin issues and diseases. The most common being an increase in fine lines and wrinkles. As the collagen production in men’s skin is higher, this is one of the areas where men’s skin has more natural benefits. However, UV damage can eradicate those benefits. To maintain healthy, younger looking skin, make sure you take precautions whilst in the sun. Your skin can be protected by spending longer time in the shade. It is also done by wearing protective clothing or frequently applying suncream.

CONCLUSION

Although men and women have fundamentally different skin types, the way we care for it should remain relatively similar. Male skin can retain moisture more effectively. However, it tends to be lost more due to external factors, such as shaving frequency. Natural benefits such as higher collagen levels reduced if skincare is neglected. A thicker, more muscular skin can lead to more prominent signs of aging. In the UK, men should invest in men’s luxury skincare, composed of natural ingredients. In Addition, they should stick to a simple skincare routine. It contributes in having a hydrated, healthy, and more youthful skin.

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