Men’s skin is different; their skincare products should be, too

Women, when it comes to skincare, does the man in your life keep “borrowing” your products? It may be time to convince him to get his own.

We can help. It’s simple science: Men’s skin is different from women’s and has different needs.

Start with the size of the hair follicles. Most men can grow beards of thick hair and most women can’t. (Although some women probably feel those few facial hairs they periodically pluck are as thick as a hipster’s beard.)

Compare, contrast

But that’s not the only variation. Researchers behind the Artistry cosmetic and skincare line, highlight the following differences between men’s and women’s skin:

• Testosterone: Men have higher levels of testosterone. The result? More oil and more active sebaceous glands. Sebaceous glands produce sebum, which protects skin from moisture loss, but you don’t want too much of it. In general, men’s skin tends to be more oily and shiny.
• Moisture: Men’s skin can be more prone to dryness because of lower levels of Natural Moisture Factor, or NMF. NMF is a protective coating on the outside of the skin that helps regulate hydration.
• Shaving: Despite the popularity of beards, many men still prefer the smooth skin of a daily shave. That ritual, however, disrupts the skin’s barrier function, making it more sensitive to damage and more prone to dryness.
• Environmental threats: Gender roles are changing rapidly, but historically speaking men spend more time outside over their lifetime than women. That means more exposure to environmental pollution, UV rays from the sun and a drying wind. This can accelerate the aging process.

That’s a lot of differences, and men should take note. “Scientific research tells us that men’s skin is much different from women’s,” said Cindy Droog, head of Amway North America Marketing. “That means, to feel and look their best, men need a unique skin care routine.”

Designed for men

The Artistry^TM Men skincare line is one option. It features the exclusive DermaSync Complex, which balances the oil and moisture in men’s skin, invigorating it to help restore and maintain a healthier, younger look.

The line, which features a cleanser, toner, serum and moisturizer, was developed to address the specific needs of men’s skin using research from Artistry^TM F.A.C.E.S, an exclusive database of photos and data on more than 32,000 women and men of all ages, ethnicities and skin types.

If you want to keep the regimen simple, focus on the cleanser, serum and moisturizer. But toners are easily added and provide essential functions, too: Balancing the condition of the skin after a wet shave by soothing it, removing excess oil and maintaining its natural protective barrier.

If you use an electric razor, apply the toner before you shave for the same benefits.

So men, stop stealing skincare products from your (wife, girlfriend, sister, daughter, lady next door) and choose products that are designed with you in mind. You deserve it!