‘Exfoliating isn’t necessary’ and other male skincare myths

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Regularly moisturising (see above) will mean that both your skin, and your facial hair, will be softer, thus also reducing the amount of shaving gel you need. Opt for a clean, multi-bladed razor and shave with the grain of hair growth (usually downward) using short strokes and rinsing often.

Myth: You don’t need to change your skincare during winter

Winter often equates to dry and flaky skin. And as temperatures become chillier, something else starts to happen to our skin: it gets horny.

“The outermost layer of the epidermis is also known as the ‘horny’ layer of skin because its cells are tough, like animal horns,” explains dermatologist, Dr Deshan Sebaratnam. “This layer is susceptible to the cold, which means that the cooler months can lead to dry and dull skin.

“To combat this, my top tip is to pick a thicker moisturiser, use it regularly, and be consistent with application.”

And while we’re talking about protecting the skin, remember that the harsh Australian sun isn’t just a concern in the summer months. Even on cloudy days, UV radiation can have an impact, leading to both premature ageing, and a higher risk of skin cancer, so make sure to apply a sunscreen or moisturiser with built-in SPF.

Myth: Exfoliating isn’t necessary because men shave

Though shaving does provide some surface exfoliation, it’s limited to only part of the face.

“It is important to incorporate and extend exfoliation to the rest of the face,” says Casey. “Especially where there is more oil production, like the forehead, cheeks and nose.”

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A build-up of sebum and dead skin in these areas is a recipe for blackheads and breakouts. “Not only does it remove these trapped impurities, but it also encourages circulation and can actually boost the absorption of your skincare products,” she says.

While exfoliating too little may let your skin’s oils run wild, on the flip side, exfoliating too often can damage the skin.

“Over-cleansing and over-exfoliating actually breaks down your skin’s self-regulating barrier,” says skincare scientist, Dr Michele Squire. “It can lead to dehydrated, irritated skin, and actually increase breakouts.”

Myth: Men don’t need to use products with active ingredients

While men tend to favour simple, quick regimens with minimal steps, the generic grooming products of yore ignore one key fact: just like their female counterparts, men have different skin types and specific skin concerns. And for any man who wants to up their skincare game, they’ll need to seek out products containing active ingredients.

“Most skincare lines dedicated to men are very general,” says Aesthetics Rx skincare general manager, Nicola Kropach. “But what about the guy that has acne, oily skin, dry skin, sensitive skin, ageing skin, or the myriad of other skincare issues that don’t discriminate based on gender? Grooming products aren’t necessarily going to deliver the type of results or efficacy the skin needs to bring about significant and visible change.”

Enter cosmeceuticals.

Containing active ingredients such as vitamin C, retinoids, hyaluronic acid, and alpha hydroxy acids, these products specifically target issues such as pigmentation and acne.

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Myth: Men need a male-specific deodorant

Despite men having more sweat-producing glands than women, the potential for BO is just as high for everyone — male or female.

“The gender of a person doesn’t define how much they sweat,” says skincare expert, Fiona Tuck. “Instead, studies suggest that size plays a role, with larger people tending to sweat more meaning that an active, larger person may need a stronger antiperspirant.”

The main difference with male versus female deodorants is actually the fragrance. Generally, both contain the same active ingredients and deodorising potential. However, men do tend to have more bacteria-harbouring body hair, in which case it’s worth investing in an antibacterial wash.

Not only will it help subdue smells, it’ll also give your skin a deep cleanse, which will lessen your chances of developing the dreaded ‘backne’.

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