6 Most Visible & Common Skin Issues in Men
Men’s skin differs from women’s in several biological and lifestyle-related ways. These differences can lead to distinct skin issues that are more common in men. Men’s skin is typically thicker, oilier, and more prone to certain conditions due to their lifestyle habits, diet, and grooming routines. Below are the five main biological differences between men’s and women’s skin:
- Thicker Skin: Men’s skin is about 25% thicker than women’s skin.
- Higher Sebum Production: Men produce more sebum, making their skin oilier and pores more noticeable.
- More Hair: Men have more body hair, and it tends to be thicker.
- More Sweat: Men tend to sweat more than women.
- Darker and Less Flexible Skin: Men’s skin is typically darker and less flexible across all racial groups.
These biological differences contribute to certain skin issues that are more prevalent among men. Dermatologist Dr. Eva Melegh highlights six of the most common and visible skin problems in men, along with solutions for each:
1. Flaky Scalp & Beard
Flaky scalps and beards are common among men, largely because they are more susceptible to fungal scalp infections and scalp and beard dermatitis, both of which can be aggravated by excessive sweating.
- Fungal Flaking: Characterized by larger, greasy flakes with a greyish hue and no itching.
- Scalp Dermatitis: Involves smaller, whiter, drier flakes, and the scalp and beard become itchy and irritated.
For fungal infections, topical anti-dandruff shampoos containing fluconazole are effective. However, for scalp and beard dermatitis, these shampoos can worsen the condition. Instead, use specialized shampoos for dry scalp and dermatitis, which help soothe itching and dryness.
2. Razor Rash
Shaving regularly can cause irritation, redness, and discomfort, leading to razor rash. Male hormones stimulate facial hair growth, so frequent shaving can cause sensitive skin reactions.
Prevention Tips:
- Cleanse your face thoroughly before shaving to remove dirt and oil.
- Use a clean, sharp razor, and replace it regularly to prevent infections.
- Avoid scented aftershave lotions immediately after shaving to prevent irritation.
- Use a soothing aftershave balm to protect the skin and reduce razor rash.
By taking proper care of your skin before and after shaving, you can minimize the risk of razor rash and keep your skin smooth and irritation-free.
3. Redness & Rosacea
As men age, particularly after 40, their skin becomes thinner, more sensitive, and less flexible, making it more prone to visible signs of aging, such as enlarged pores. One common condition that becomes more noticeable in men over 45 is rosacea, a chronic skin issue that causes persistent redness, visible blood vessels, and bumpy texture, especially around the nose and cheeks.
If left untreated, rosacea can worsen over time, leading to more intense redness, a perpetually red nose, and thickened skin due to excess tissue. Additionally, certain lifestyle habits—such as excessive alcohol consumption and neglecting sun protection—can exacerbate rosacea. Studies have shown that only 18% of men use sunscreen on their face, compared to 42% of women, increasing the risk of developing rosacea.
Men are also less likely to seek early treatment for rosacea, which makes it crucial to adopt preventive measures. Using an SPF daily from the age of 30 and starting a preventive skincare routine at the first signs of rosacea can significantly help manage the condition and prevent it from worsening.
4. Folliculitis
Due to the thicker skin and dense hair growth on men’s bodies, along with frequent shaving, men are more susceptible to folliculitis (inflammation of hair follicles) and ingrown hairs. This occurs when the hair shaft becomes infected by external bacteria, often leading to red bumps or pustules on the skin.
To prevent folliculitis, regular exfoliation of vulnerable areas is essential, as it removes dead skin cells that could clog hair follicles. Additionally, maintaining a healthy balance of good skin bacteria through proper skincare can help reduce the risk of folliculitis and ingrown hairs.
5. Oily Skin, Acne & Blackheads
Men tend to produce more oil on their skin, primarily due to the influence of male hormones, known as androgens. These hormones increase the size of the oil glands, leading to the secretion of more sebum, which causes the skin to appear greasier and the pores to look larger. The increased oil production, particularly on the face, neck, shoulders, and back, often results in acne and blackheads.
However, it’s not the excess sebum itself that causes these issues. The problem arises when sebum mixes with air and oxidizes, combined with bacteria that enter the skin through open pores. This mixture leads to the formation of blackheads and acne.
Using antibacterial products may help kill the bacteria in the short term, but over time, this can have the opposite effect, causing the skin to produce even more sebum. Additionally, these products can destroy beneficial skin bacteria, making the skin more sensitive and redder. A more effective approach is to allow excess sebum to pass through the pores without contamination, thus reducing the likelihood of acne in oily skin.
6. Under-Eye Dark Circles
Men’s skin is generally darker than women’s across all racial groups, which makes them more prone to developing dark circles under their eyes. Additionally, because men’s skin is less flexible and often drier, particularly around the eyes, this area can show more discoloration over time.
Despite the tendency for many men to avoid cosmetic products, such as under-eye concealers, they can be an effective treatment for dark circles. These products often contain ingredients that not only conceal discoloration but also help repair the skin’s barrier, improving moisture retention and preventing under-eye dryness. Adopting an under-eye care routine, including concealers, can help manage and reduce the appearance of dark circles, while also addressing the skin’s health in this delicate area.
