Healthy Skin Has No Gender: Why Men Should Not Skip On Skincare

Last Updated:September 04, 2025, 16:47 IST

Men’s skin is biologically thicker and has more active sebaceous glands, making it oilier and more prone to acne and enlarged pores.

Shaving adds stress to men’s skin, requiring targeted aftercare.

For decades, skincare was wrongly boxed into the realm of vanity and femininity. Men, on the other hand, were told a quick splash of water or a post-shave cologne was enough. But the reality is clear: skin doesn’t differentiate between genders. Pollution, sun exposure, shaving, stress, and lifestyle habits impact men just as much, and in some cases, even more. Ignoring skincare doesn’t just dull appearances; it undermines long-term skin health.

“As we often see, most men realise the importance of skincare only after concerns have set in,” said Shaily Mehrotra, Founder & CEO, Fixderma. “My advice is to start early, keep it simple, and stay consistent. Good skin is not about gender. It’s about health,” she added.

Daily Exposure, Daily Impact

From long commutes to outdoor work, the skin is often exposed to sun, dust, and pollution for hours on end. This constant assault weakens the skin barrier, leading to tanning, sensitivity, premature ageing, and acne.

“Men’s skin is biologically 20–25% thicker, with more active sebaceous glands. That makes it oilier and more prone to acne and enlarged pores. At the same time, collagen density is higher, which slows ageing, but daily lifestyle stressors can quickly offset this natural advantage,” explained Snigdha Suman, General Manager – Marketing & Business Development, Avon India.

Shaving and Skin Stress

Shaving may look like a routine task, but for skin, it’s a stress test. Constant friction can lead to dryness, ingrown hairs, razor burns, and irritation. Without soothing aftercare, these effects compound over time.

“Regular shaving puts added stress on the skin. Over-exfoliation, especially when combined with shaving, can worsen acne breakouts. That’s where targeted formulations, like salicylic acid-based solutions, become essential,” noted Mehrotra.

Consistency Over Quick Fixes

A good skincare routine doesn’t need to be complicated or time-consuming. What matters is consistency. Cleansing, moisturising, and applying sunscreen daily takes under five minutes but helps prevent pigmentation, fine lines, and uneven skin tone in the long run.

“The secret lies in building a structured routine: cleanser, serum, moisturiser, eye cream, and sunscreen. Quick fixes don’t last, but a consistent approach keeps the skin hydrated, firm, and energised,” said Suman.

Inside Out: The Role of Diet

Beyond products, what you eat plays a direct role in skin health. Diets high in processed foods, sugar, and alcohol can worsen oiliness and breakouts, while antioxidant-rich foods, proteins, and hydration nourish the skin from within.

“Skincare is not vanity, it’s maintenance – just like fitness or grooming,” said Mehrotra.

Men’s skin is unique, but its care doesn’t need to be complicated. Start simple, stay consistent, and remember: healthy skin has no gender.

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Author: News18