Objectively speaking, if you are born with a Y chromosome, you are more likely to have good skin.
Men have thick skin. Probably 20-30%. Women are busy fighting crow’s feet with the anti-aging creams on the shelves, but this concentration keeps them plump and healthy. But thick skin comes at a price. There are more hair follicles. It has more glands.
These glands produce sebum. oil.
Testosterone keeps these glands functioning at full capacity. result? In general, men’s skin is oilier than women’s skin. Oil is the problem. Pores can become blocked. It can cause dark spots. It causes breakouts. Acne is a nightmare for teenagers, but shine is the new enemy for adults.
Shiny faces are out. Matte faces are in.
The New York Times recently highlighted the dramatic increase in skin care products designed for matte skin. One market research company predicts that 36 new oil-regulating moisturizers will be launched in 2010 alone. This trend is not slowing down. People with oily skin may think that hydration is their enemy. You think adding product adds oil.
You are wrong.
There is a big difference between adding oil and adding water. A good moisturizer absorbs moisture into the surface cells of the skin. Protects from wind, sunlight and pollution. Prevents pore clogging. Avoid that greasy and heavy feeling.
But before you buy anything, stop and look in the mirror. Alternatively, you may want to have it checked by a professional.
Don’t trust the guy at the counter in the department store. That white coat is a costume, not a credential. Consult a licensed dermatologist. Use the search tool on the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) website to find one near you. Get the right diagnosis.
Choose the right moisturizer for oily skin
Once you know your skin type, you need to choose products that work with your skin and not against it.
Men with oily skin should look for moisturizers with the following properties:
oil free
Water based
* Non-comedogenic (meaning it won’t clog pores)
Here is the catch. Science does not strictly regulate these labels. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classifies moisturizers as cosmetics. They don’t test their products to verify their health claims before they hit the shelves. That burden is on you. You need to read the ingredient list.
There are two main types of moisturizers: occlusives and humectants.
Occlusives Use oils such as petroleum jelly, lanolin or coconut oil. It creates a physical seal on your skin and locks in moisture. It is oil based, so it is not suitable for oily skin. They just make things worse.
Humectants is the solution. It uses ingredients that absorb moisture from the air directly into the skin. Look for the following on the label:
* Glycerin (or glycerol)
* Alpha hydroxy acids (AHA)
*Urea
Most standard moisturizers are a mixture of an occlusive agent and a moisturizing agent. If you have oily skin, look for products based solely on moisturizers.
For best results, use this product immediately after cleansing. Keep your skin slightly moist. Allow it to absorb excess moisture. You can maximize the effect.
A new wave of oil control products
A third group of ingredients has been added to the newest generation of moisturizers. Humectantss are designed to absorb oil while moisturizing.
Use Men’s Matte Face and Head Care Cream. It uses oats. Natural oil absorption.
Or check out Jack Black’s All Day Oil Control Lotion. Contains kaolin (kaolin), cotton and nylon 12 pellets. Nylon 12 is a synthetic polymer that absorbs facial oils.
These products directly address shine. But they do more.
Regardless of what you choose, it’s important to wear sunscreen. Aim for at least SPF 15. If you have fair skin or spend time outside, go for SPF 30. Make sure you have “full spectrum” coverage. This means protection from both UVA and UVB rays.
Oily skin is a nuisance Skin cancer is an epidemic.
In the United States, one million new cases and 8,000 deaths are reported each year. Don’t forget the SPF.
More information about moisturizers and skin types can be found in the links on the next page.
