Common skincare myths for men debunked

Updated on 07th August 2023 by Avindo Gonsalves

Skincare is only for women

Skincare is time consuming

Men don't need sunscreen

Men's skin is tougher

Skincare is only for older men

Skincare is expensive

Skincare only improves appearance

Skincare is often regarded as a practice that women should follow, but this couldn’t be farther from the truth. Men also have skincare issues which can be prevented and managed through regular skincare practices. In this post let us address the myths that surround men’s skincare and debunk them.

Skincare is only for women

Most men think that skincare is only for women and they don’t need to follow a skincare routine. But, in recent years there is an emerging idea that skincare isn’t about gender. It’s about skin health and men also encounter skin related problems. Hence, it is important that men incorporate a proper skincare routine.

Neglecting skincare can lead to acne, premature aging, uneven skin tone and sensitive skin. Hence, every men must follow a daily routine that involves cleansing, moisturizing and sun protection.  This will result in healthy skin and boost self-confidence.

Skincare is time-consuming

Most men think that skincare routines are time-consuming and complex. This belief is influenced by a variety of factors like marketing strategies used by the beauty industry, social media trends and personal experiences.

The skincare market is flooded with a range of products that claim to address specific skin concerns. This can lead to confusion about which products are necessary and effective. Advertisements and social media platforms also show elaborate skincare routines involving multiple steps and products. 

Then there’s the endorsement of certain skincare products by celebrities and influencers which emphasize on extensive routines. All this has created an impression in the minds of men that skincare is time consuming.  

For most men a basic skincare routine involving cleansing, moisturizing and sun protection can go a long way in maintaining healthy skin. These three steps can be completed quickly and easily.

All you need to do is to choose products that are well-suited to your skin type and concerns. Also be consistent with your routine. This can yield positive results over time.

Now, if you have some skin problems like acne, hyperpigmentation or skin aging that persist even after using the above skincare routine. In such situation you may have to use targeted treatment for that particular skincare problem.

Men don’t need sunscreen

Some men think that they don’t need sunscreen. This is another myth that needs to be debunked as soon as possible. Using sunscreen can prevent a lot of future skin problems.

Sunscreen protects the skin from the harmful UV rays of the sun. These rays cause skin problems like wrinkles and hyperpigmentation. In the long run they can make you look older and darker. UV rays are also known to cause skin cancer.

Therefore it is necessary to use sun protection for both genders. Use a broad spectrum sunscreen with a SPF of above 30 whenever you go out in the open. Reapply it after every two hours of staying in the sun. If possible, avoid moving out in the sun during afternoons as the UV rays are most intense at this time. Cover your eyes with sunglasses and use a wide hat for shade.

Men’s skin is tough

On average, men have thicker and less sensitive skin compared to women. The high levels of testosterone in men contribute to increased collagen density and sebum production. This leads to thicker and oilier skin.

The thicker nature of men’s skin can provide some level of protection, making it less sensitive to external stressors. But, it is important to understand that individual variations exist and some men might have more sensitive skin than most women. This is due to genetics, lifestyle, skincare routines and exposure to external factors.

Thus, some men have sensitive skin due to reasons beyond hormonal difference. Therefore it is important to choose appropriate products and routines based on skin type and concerns.

Skincare is only for older men

This is another common misconception that men have about skincare. Skincare is important for individuals of all ages and genders. In fact applying sunscreen is a step that one must undertake at a very early age to prevent premature skin aging.

The skincare routine for younger men may focus on preventive measures, while older men may need to incorporate products related to skin aging. Hence, it is important to maintain a good skincare routine regardless of one’s age.

Skincare is expensive

Skincare as mentioned above is not time consuming due to the usage of minimal products. Hence, it is not expensive. Skincare is expensive, another wrong idea that men have in their minds.

According to this survey from 2021, around 44 % of surveyed shoppers in the United States stated that they spend less than 50 US dollars a month on skincare products. Around 26 % replied with 51 to 100 US dollars.

A simple skincare routine that includes a facial cleanser, moisturizer and sunscreen will cost you less than 50 dollars if you buy online. Hence skincare is not expensive and it will cost you less than 2 dollars a day.

Skincare only improves appearance

Finally, many men think that skincare is only for appearance. Skincare can definitely improve the overall appearance of any man, it has health benefits and can boost self-confidence.

Regular use of sunscreen can protect the skin from UV rays that cause skin cancer. Moisturizers can support the skin’s natural barrier function, preventing sensitivity and inflammation.

Proper skincare can boost self-confidence. Skincare can make a man look nice and earn a lot of appreciation. This can promote a positive self-image and boost mental health.

Since skincare is not expensive or time consuming every man must use it in their daily life. Only be consistent in your usage.

In conclusion

Most men avoid using skincare due to the many myths that are associated with it. Skincare is surely not only for women or older men. It is neither time consuming nor expensive.

A simple skincare routine can improve overall appearance of any man, reduce future skin problems and boost self-confidence.

It costs less than 50 dollars a month for a simple skincare routine. But one needs to be consistent and patient.