Men's Skincare 101- Keep it Simple and Active
/By Dr Jemima Grant
MBBS (Hons) BSc(Med) (Hons) BA FRACGP FACAM GP & Cosmetic Physician, Medical Director Thrive Skin Clinic @drjemimagrant
Here are my top tips for male skin:
Simple Routine
Most men like a simple skin routine - as (most) male skin is thicker and more resilient, I like to keep the routine simple and active.
This means: cleansing and SPF in AM, and a prescription strength retinol cream at night followed by a simple moisturiser. My retinol of choice for normal male skin is either prescription retrieve, or the Alpha Ret Intensive Overnight Serum. (This brand is unparalleled in terms of formulation and tolerability).
If men have oily, congested skin or are concerned with large pores or blackheads, I prescribe Skin Better Science Alpha Clearing Serum + Skin Better Science Peel Pads as a no fuss treatment for male acne and scarring. SPF 15+ in the AM. Most male patients use something low fuss like La Roche Posy or UberZinc for more sensitive skin or acne that worsens with a normal suncream.
Anti-Wrinkle Injections
Brotox is a thing and it is becoming more popular with men in the late 30s and 40s. However, due to higher levels of testosterone, male muscles are usually stronger and require a higher dose. This means it is often more expensive (I am a realist). Tox in males is a journey as we balance cost with outcomes - it may take a few visits. As you know, I prefer not to freeze - you don't have to be frozen to reduce wrinkles!
Clinic Treatments
Our most popular clinic for males is a mix of Hydrafacial and Q Switch Laser. This mix combines clinical exfoliation and skin hydration with a gentle laser that reduces pore size, oily skin and prevents lines and wrinkles. If you have not had this before, don't be scared, this is a gentle procedure!
Diet
Reduce processed food.
Supplements
Males need a lot of zinc and zinc deficiency can contribute to acne. Oral zinc supplementation for males with congested or acne prone skin are an effective addition. I favour Metazinc by Metagenics as it is a physician grade supplement, meaning that what you get in the capsule is what is says on the label.
Home Care
For acne or oily congested skin, Skin Better Science AlphaRet Clearing Serum + Skin Better Science Peel Pads are just the bomb for male skin for a medical grade exfoliation. This patented, triple-acid (glycolic, lactic and salicylic) formulation, enhanced with a patented retinoid, AlphaRet, exfoliates skin, leaving it smooth, hydrated and bright. This formulation is amazing for resilient skin, improving congestion, pores and an amazing anti-ageing product. Best of all, it's quick and simple so men love it....
Omnilux Men’s Mask is engineered for men's thicker skin, this evidence based LED mask is calibrated with the deepest penetrating wavelength of near-infrared light (1072nm) to meet men's unique skin needs. From razor burn, rosacea and sensitive skin, fine lines, dark circles, & under-eye bags, Omnilux’s advanced home light therapy technology provides visible, dermatologist-level results proven for men.
Acne Scarring
Due to increased levels of testosterone, males often have more severe acne as young men. Please see a doctor if you or your son has severe acne scarring is permanent. I support men of all ages with their skin, which may include referral to a dermatologist for Roaccutane.
3-5 sessions of Tixel on high settings - IPL or vascular laser depending on the skin type.
