Is a man's skin really different from a woman's?
Yes! Besides the ability to grow facial hair, there are major structural differences between men's skin and women's skin. Androgen (testosterone hormone) stimulation causes an increase in skin thickness, which accounts for why a man's skin is about 25% thicker than a woman's. From a structural stand point, some of the differences also include collagen density, loss of collagen as we age, texture and hydration. As a barber I am up close and personal with my clients hair and skin. I can see their scalp, the back of their head, their neck, and other places they don't see on a regular basis. I can asses any skin problems, potential life threatening skin cancers, and recommend professional products for use. I have quite a few clients with eczema or psoriasis. Don't be afraid of these things, but educate yourself on resolutions for your clients adding value to yourself and the service you offer.
THICKNESS:
In addition to being thicker, a man's skin texture is tougher. A man’s skin also thins gradually with age, whereas the thickness of a woman’s skin remains constant until about the age of fifty. After menopause, her skin will thin significantly, which will continue as she ages
COLLAGEN:
Men have a higher collagen density than women; this is the ratio of collagen to the thickness of the skin. Researchers believe that the higher collagen density accounts for why women appear to age faster than men of the same age. Yes thats why they say men get more sophisticated when they get older. When considering intrinsic (genetically-programmed) aging of the skin, it has been said that women are about 15 years older than men of the same age. What the heck, why do we always get screwed when it comes to aging. Of course, the role of daylight exposure in skin aging, combined with the fact that men do not use sunscreen as often as women, may account for why we do not readily notice. Men this is why you need to wear sunscreen, or moisturizer with added collagen. Both men and women lose about one percent of their collagen per year after their 30th birthday. For women, however, this escalates significantly in the first five years after menopause then slows down to a loss of two percent per year. See again we are screwed. Thanks a lot Estrogen.
Treating a MAN'S SKIN:
The health of a man’s skin is, of course, just as important as that of a woman. But while treatment for a man sometimes differs from a woman, remember that the same amount of care must be taken regardless of the gender of your client. Even if the man appears to have tough, resilient skin, he may still have internal issues or surround himself in environments that sensitize effect his skin. Don't be afraid to recommend products, or even mention any skin issues you see. The hardest part of being a barber/stylist can be feeling comfortable enough to bring up uncomfortable issues. I have no problem informing my clients of irritation, flaking, pimples, ingrown hairs, or any uncommon skin occurrence. I see them up close and personal, so part of my job is helping keep an eye out for things like that.
SHAVING:
Finally, shaving gives men an extra edge in skin care.
This intense exfoliation of the outer skin layers can soften the texture of the skin after you shave leading to a more youthful skin appearance. But it can also irritate skin and lead to more ingrown hairs or bumps if you're not careful.
In general, it's a good idea to change your razor blade every 3-4 uses if you shave often, or whenever your razor starts pulling, nicking or rusting. This will help ensure your razor stays sharp for a closer, more accurate shave.
Shaving with and across the grain is professionally recommended. I know that almost every guy shaves against the grain, and if that is you make sure to use an aftershave or toner to cleanse the pores. To end the morning never leave without putting on a moisturizer with sunscreen.
Tip: To prolong the life of your razor, dry it off after you shave and avoid storing it in a wet shower.
Check out the skin products available in My collections. Professional products now available on my website.