Does a man’s skincare routine differ to that of a woman? In short, not really. The longer answer does however throw up some subtle differences to be aware of in skin gender because of differing factors in body and skin makeup. Hormonal differences, age, and skin type are a few of the common reasons why a man’s skin might require a slightly different approach to skincare to that of a woman.
Fortunately, aromatherapy is on hand to help you get into a good skincare routine that not only works for you but nourishes and promotes healthy skin, whatever your age. Here’s a quick look at what that might look like!
How Men’s Skin Differs to Women’s Skin
Many sources claim that men have a higher collagen density than women. What does this mean? Quite simply, it means that men have greater skin elasticity, more skin moisture, and a more hydrated skin. Men may have a reduction in wrinkles and not age as fast as women. Men tend to have thicker skin than women, making their skin feel firmer and stronger than a woman’s skin. I know, right?!
But, and here’s the flip side, men have more facial hair than women which often leads to clogged pores and irritated skin (due to shaving), so it’s important to take care of neck and facial hair with skincare products designed to help just do that. Even men need to take care of their skin if they want to protect their assets.
Men’s Aromatherapy Skincare Routine
Despite the differences in men’s and women’s skin, both share a similar daily skincare routine. This includes:
- Cleanse: Such as with our Gel Facial Cleanser suitable for all skin types. It includes both lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) and tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) essential oils.
- Tone: Hydrosol makes the perfect toner and can also remove excess dirt. Our frankincense (Boswellia carteri) hydrosol is perfect for men’s skincare.
- Moisturize: Our Restore Face Oil, with lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), vetiver (Vetiveria zizaniodes), and Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) essential oils is a good place to start.
You can also add in an exfoliation ritual; for example, once a week.
Carrier Oils for Men’s Skincare
Carrier oils rich in vitamins and other nutrients also make good moisturizers. We use rosehip, avocado, and evening primrose oil in our Restore Face Oil which have the following nutrients:
- Rosehip Oil: Full of polyunsaturated fatty acids such as linoleic acid and alpha-linoleic acid, as well as a high content of vitamin C.
- Avocado Oil: Full of monosaturated fatty acids such as oleic acid, and vitamins A, B1, B2, and D.
- Evening Primrose Oil: Full of polyunsaturated fatty acids such as linoleic acid.
Essential Oils for Men’s Skincare
There are many essential oils for men’s skincare use. These are some of our favorites and their benefits:
- Frankincense (Boswellia carteri): Helps to soothe and manage oily skin, sensitive skin, and problem skin. It has a spicy, balsamic aroma.
- Sandalwood (Santalum album): Helps to soothe and manage congested and problem skin. It has a deep, balsamic-woody aroma.
- Vetiver (Vetiveria zizaniodes): Helps to soothe and manage damaged skin. It has a smoky, earthy aroma.
- Lemon (Citrus × limon): Helps soothe and manage oily skin, mature skin, and problem skin. It has a bright, sharp, citrus aroma.
- Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia): Helps to soothe and manage all skin types. It has a sweet, floral aroma.
- Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens): Helps to soothe and manage all skin types. It has a sweet, rose-like aroma.
Cautions for Essential Oils in Men’s Skincare
If you are making up an essential oil blend for facial care, stick to the 1% dilution guideline until you know how your skin will react. You will most likely find that you don’t need more than this rate which is 6 drops TOTAL of essential oil in 1-oz. of carrier oil or base. Pay attention to individual cautions for using a specific essential oil, too.
Men’s Aromatherapy Facial at Your Body Needs
If you are local to the Annapolis, Maryland area, we’d love to see you try our Guy’s Facial Treatment package! This package, designed to fit men’s specific skincare needs, includes:
- Aromatic inhale
- Deep cleanse
- Skin analysis
- Exfoliating mask
- Facial massage
- Hydration mask
- Hydrosol or nut plant oil application.
Check out our Holistic Facial Menu to learn more.
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