Is Men’s Skin Truly Different to Women?

When it comes to skincare, men and women are often treated differently. From marketing campaigns to the products themselves, there is a perception that male and female skin require different treatments. But is this really true? Let’s take an in-depth look at the differences between men’s and women’s skin to try to answer this question.

Biology of Men’s and Women’s Skin

The short answer is yes – men’s skin is somewhat different than women’s skin, though not drastically so. At the biological level, men have thicker skin than women due to higher levels of collagen production and the presence of more sebaceous glands (which produce natural oils). Additionally, male sebum has been found to contain more lipids, which provide greater hydration for the skin compared to female sebum.

However, these biological differences don’t necessarily mean that men need special skincare products or treatments that are not suitable for women. In fact, many of the same active ingredients, such as retinol and vitamin C, work just as well on everyone. As such, it is important for both men and women to use a comprehensive skincare routine tailored specifically for their individual needs regardless of gender.

Pore Size & Hair Follicles

Men tend to have larger pores than women because their facial hair follicles are larger and since those follicles produce sebum (an oily substance), this ultimately results in oily skin with larger visible pores on the surface (especially around the nose area). For this reason, men should always keep their pores clean by using astringent cleansers or toners after washing their faces. Additionally, using an exfoliator once or twice per week can help clear out any dirt or debris trapped inside these large pores which could also prevent outbreaks of acne over time.