Can Men Use Women's Skincare Products?
When it comes to skincare, men have traditionally been the forgotten gender. For too long, we've been told that all we need is a little soap and water to keep our skin healthy. But as anyone who has ever suffered from a breakout can attest, that's simply not true. Let’s rise above that old way of thinking gents… after all, we’re worth it too!
While more and more companies are now creating skincare products specifically for men's skin (which is a bloody good thing), these products can sometimes come with a hefty price tag. So, what's a good-looking fella like you — who may or may not be on a budget — going to do? Let’s find out.
Are women’s skincare products effective on men’s skin?
Contrary to popular belief, women's skincare products can be just as effective on men's skin. In fact, in many cases, they can be even more effective. That's because women's skincare products are typically designed to be more gentle and more hydrating than their male counterparts.
While you may not need something as heavy-duty as an anti-aging serum just yet, there's nothing wrong with using a product that will help to keep your skin looking its best. So, don’t be afraid to steal your better half’s moisturiser!
Here’s the thing: There are a few points to keep in mind when shopping for women's skincare products. First, don't be afraid to read the labels. Just because a product is marketed towards women doesn't mean it's right for your skin type.
Second, pay attention to the ingredients. Not all skincare products are created equal, and you'll want to make sure you're using something that won't end up irritating your skin.
Finally, don't be afraid to ask for help. The beauty industry can be intimidating, but most salespeople are more than happy to help you find the right product for your needs.
What’s the difference between men's and women’s skin?
Generally speaking, men's skin is thicker than women's skin, which means it can withstand harsher ingredients and doesn't require as much hydration. However, this also means that men are more susceptible to developing ingrown hairs, razor burns, and other shaving-related issues.
On the other hand, women's skin is thinner and more delicate than men's skin, which means it requires gentler ingredients and more hydration. Women are also more likely to suffer from conditions like acne, rosacea, and sensitive skin. In addition, women go through hormonal changes throughout their lives that can impact their skin (think puberty, pregnancy, menopause, etc.), which further underscores the need for different skincare products.
Facial hair and shaving
Men have a greater number of hair follicles around their necks than women do. These follicles are also larger and more concentrated around the neck. As a result, men have more facial hair than women, which explains why they can have a hard time removing it. This means that men have to — you guessed it — shave regularly.
As any guy will tell you, the problem with shaving regularly is that it can lead to cuts, bumps, and razor burns. And that’s why it’s so important for men to prioritise an effective skincare routine.
Thickness and collagen
Did you know that men’s skin is typically thicker than women’s skin by up to 30%? Not only this but men’s skin also produces a heap more collagen than women’s skin, making it firmer and tighter.
The levels of collagen that a man produces tend to reduce consistently over time. Conversely, women’s collagen levels significantly reduce post-menopause.
While women may not like to hear this, the fact that men’s skin is firmer and thicker means that it ages better than the average female’s skin.
In a nutshell, men’s skin retains its youthfulness better than women’s skin. The only catch is that when the time comes for men’s skin to start ageing, these changes occur at a more rapid rate. Hence, the dark circles, saggy eyes, and wrinkles that men tend to increasingly get as they age.
Oiliness
It may come as a surprise, but the reason for men's skin producing more oil has nothing to do with gender and everything to do with hormones. The hormone testosterone, primarily found in males, increases sebum production in the skin. Sebum, also known as oil, helps to keep our skin soft and supple but can also contribute to acne when overproduced.
Interestingly, women also have testosterone in their bodies, but it is typically found at much lower levels. This explains why teenage boys tend to have more severe acne breakouts than teenage girls; their hormonal fluctuations cause them to produce more oil. In adults, this difference evens out as hormone levels stabilise and men and women both experience decreases in sebum production as they age.
So, while men may have had struggles with oily skin in their teens, women may experience more oiliness as they enter menopause due to hormonal changes.
Is there a difference between men's and women’s skincare products?
When it comes to skincare, there is a common misconception that men and women have significantly different needs. While there may be distinctions in terms of fragrance or marketing, the reality is that the basic building blocks of skincare tend to be the same for all genders.
A good skincare routine should focus on cleansing, moisturising, and protecting skin from sun damage. That said, there are some differences in skin care concerns between men and women.
Men tend to have oilier skin and are more prone to acne breakouts, while women may have drier skin and be more concerned with fine lines and wrinkles. However, these differences can often be addressed with targeted products rather than separate "men's" and "women's" lines.
Ultimately, the most important factor in finding the right skincare products is to pay attention to your skin’s individual needs and preferences.
Can men use women’s skincare products?
Here’s the thing: Women’s skincare products contain a lot of the active ingredients that may help men’s skin. But…. although us guys can opt for women’s skincare products, it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the best idea.
Many of the ingredients that you’re likely to find in women’s skincare products are simply ‘overkill’ for men’s skin. Plus, women’s skincare products often don’t contain the adequate ingredients that men’s skin needs.
Additionally, a lot of the ingredients you’re likely to find in women’s skincare products can clog your pores due to too much moisture. The result is skin congestion and more of those awful breakouts!
So… while you can use women’s skincare products, you’re better to stick with high-quality men’s skincare products that are targeted for your skin.
Summary
In many cases, men can get away with using women’s skincare products. And if the alternative is using no skincare products at all, it’s probably better you continue to use the women’s stuff. However, if you really want to look after your skin and keep it looking youthful and masculine at the same time, you need a specially formulated men’s skincare product — like the range from VITAMAN.
VITAMAN’S skincare, haircare, and shaving essentials are made using organic Australian botanicals that won’t irritate the skin. The ingredients we use are certified vegan and ethically sourced. Jump on over to our website and give your handsome skin a little extra love today!