When it comes to skin care, like many other things in their lives, men prefer to keep it simple. Maybe they’re still even using the same brand bar soap their mom bought them or got into something scented as a teenager (hello Axe or Irish Spring) and just haven’t had a reason to leave it. Many men love the 4 in 1 options like one product for shampoo, conditioner, body soap and face wash - WHAT!?

Enough generalizing about men.. they have skin and we care about all skin types, it is our largest organ after all! Although there are key differences between men and women’s skin — for example, men’s skin is thicker than women’s — the basic elements of an effective skin care plan remain the same.

First, it’s important for men to understand skin condition: Unlike skin types, these are conditions that happen regularly or maybe even all the time.

Dehydration: This is the most common skin condition we see, especially living in such a dry climate. When skin is dry it lacks the healthy glow and sometimes will overproduce oil to compensate. It's different than dryness in that skin has trouble retaining water. 

Congestion: We all know this one!  This is when pores are dark and filled, they can usually be seen in the mirror and will appear bumpy. Most skin we see has some sort of congestion - it's really just build up of things that get into our pores from what we do in our daily lives.

Breakouts and Whiteheads: Breakouts can be caused by dead skin cells, stress, diet, hormonal cycles, and bacteria. You can help prevent breakouts by washing your face at night and in the morning, using a moisturizer regularly.

Fine Lines: These are the really thin lines that show up in near the eyes and lips.  Usually happens with age.  As you age, your skin loses elasticity and muscle tone.   

Flaking / Dead Skin Buildup: When you have this skin condition, you'll know it - flakiness and dry patches. This is very comparable to the skin peeling after sunburn or windburn maybe from spending time on the slopes. Your skin is rough to to the touch and maybe even flakes fall off when you touch it.

Dark Areas: Have freckles or sun spots?  You're going to be susceptible to this type of condition. Hyperpigmentation is the darkened pigmented areas, such as large dark spots or condensed areas of freckles. 

Irritation: It's very likely we've all had irritation at some point. This is when the skin is red in color and sometimes warm to the touch. This can happen from using a product that doesn't agree with our skin type, too much scrubbing, an allergy, changes in the weather, allergies or more. 

Wrinkles: Oh those dreaded wrinkles!  They happen to all of us - usually in the places where we make the same motion again and again - forehead, eyes, lips are common areas wrinkles are found. 

Just like women, men should select products based on skin conditions - here’s some of our most popular products for men and what conditions they’re best for:

Naturopathica Aloe Cleansing Gel - A foaming, sulfate-free gel that clarifies, cleanses and protects with refreshing lavender and over 50% aloe vera. This is a light, almost unscented option perfect for both morning and evening routines.

Best for: Congestion, Irritation, Breakouts/Whiteheads

Naturopathica Vitamin Revitalizing Lotion - An ultra-light daily moisturizer that helps prevent the visible signs of aging and improve elasticity by blending vitamin C and kudzu extract. A great light moisturizer, for those that don’t like thick heavy lotions.

Best for: Dehydration, Flaking/Dead Skin, Wrinkles

Naturopathica Plant Stem Cell Booster Serum - A serum is the most basic part of any skin care routine! A serum serves as the foundation, and really sets the stage for any products that are next, or as a standalone item - it’s a re-balancer for many skin conditions.

Best for: Dehydration, Dark Areas, Fine Lines

TOP 3 TIPS FOR MEN’S SKIN:

1. Wash your face daily and after exercise. Use a cleanser intended for your face! A bar soap or an all-in-one option can often be way to drying for the face. It can take days for your skin can recover from washing with too hash of a soap.

2. Watch your shaving technique. “For some men, multi-blade razors can work too well or shave too closely to your skin. If you often experience razor bumps, razor burns, or ingrown hairs, use a single- or double-blade razor instead and do not stretch your skin taut while shaving. Before you shave, wet your skin and hair to soften it. Use a moisturizing shaving cream and shave in the direction of hair growth. Rinse after each swipe of the razor, and change your blade after five to seven shaves to minimize irritation.” source

3. Don’t forget the moisturizer! “Moisturizer works by trapping water in your skin, which can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and make your skin look brighter and younger. For the best results, apply moisturizer to your face and body immediately after bathing, showering or shaving while the skin is still damp.” source

4. Sunscreen is important: It’s a fact, sun damage leads to wrinkles and age spots. Worse than that, sun damage can lead to skin cancer. For best protection, use a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating. You can also protect your skin by utilizing shade areas and wearing sun-protective clothing, such as a lightweight and long-sleeved shirt, pants, and hat.

If you aren’t sure what skin type you have, or if have questions about how to take care of your skin, see a board-certified dermatologist.