Most men think that skin care is complicated and requires a lot of products, but they are wrong. In fact, skin care can be very simple and fit into anyone’s schedule. In men, the dermis (the middle layer of the skin) is thicker and stronger than in women. This causes deeper, furrowed wrinkles from repetitive muscle movements. Testosterone can also make the skin more oily. However, the most important factor in choosing products is skin type. Skin Types Normal skin can tolerate various skin care products without any harsh results. Dry skin can be red and scaly in places, especially when exposed to cold winter days. Sensitive skin reacts to different products in different ways. If you develop a rash or experience itching, redness or burning when trying new skin care products, then you have this skin type. Oily skin makes the face look shiny or bright due to excessive sebum production. This is a prerequisite for the appearance of acne and other skin imperfections. Combination skin is dry in certain areas and oily in others. Assessing the type of skin is essential because it in turn selects the right products. What is important in choosing products? For starters, the product selection boils down to cleansers, moisturizers, and sunscreens. Cleaning products are recommended to be gentle, without added fragrances, with a balanced pH. They can be creams, gels, washing foam, according to personal preferences. Moisturizers retain water in the skin and thus it remains hydrated and plump. Hyaluronic acid and ceramides are ingredients that contribute to healthy and well-hydrated skin. Salicylic and glycolic acids are included in acne and blemish fighting products. Through their chemical action on the epidermis, dead cells are removed, and salicylic acid penetrates even deeper, reaching the sebaceous glands. Products containing added fragrances should be avoided because they can cause contact allergies that can lead to red, itchy or scaly rashes on the face, head and neck. An aftershave containing alcohol is also not an option because it dries out the skin. Products containing alcohol by their very nature are used as antiseptics and protect against infections, but they also irritate the skin. A few steps for healthier skin: Cleanse twice a day – morning and night. Hydration also twice a day – immediately after cleansing. Applying sunscreen – at least once a day, in the morning. References: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6116811/ https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/care/skin-care- for-men https://health.clevelandclinic.org/skin-care-for-men/