Online personality Dr. Charles, MD, discusses common men’s skin issues, the importance of sun protection, and easy routines for healthier, clearer skin.
What are the most common skin health issues you’ve seen among male patients?
Some of the most common skin health concerns among male patients include dandruff (scalp, beard, and face), hair loss, and body acne. The great news is that most of these conditions can be easily addressed with a combination of dermatologist-approved prescriptions and over-the-counter products.
Men are reportedly at a higher risk of developing skin cancer than women are. What factors contribute to this increased risk?
There are a few potential reasons for a difference in skincare incidence, such as occupational exposure (e.g., men working outside) and infrequent sunscreen use. Utilizing Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) clothing — such as hats, neck guards, and gloves — as well as applying daily sunscreen, can help to lower the incidence of skin cancer.
What are some of the primary causes of hair loss among men?
For the majority of men, the most common cause of hair loss is androgenetic alopecia, which is a fancy way of saying hormonally driven hair loss. Our hair follicles are sensitive to the hormone DHT, which is made from testosterone. Finasteride or dutasteride is a popular, effective treatment for this type of hair loss, as it blocks the conversion of testosterone to DHT. Some men may also experience autoimmune hair loss (alopecia areata). Areata often affects the beard area for many men — think circular bald patches.
How do men’s skincare routines differ from women’s?
Men tend to have more sebaceous, or oily, skin. Men also have facial hair, which affects their preferences for many product vehicles. Most men can benefit from products that contain salicylic acid, a beta-hydroxy acid which targets oil glands and helps to degrease the skin. I also like to recommend gel and lotion-based formulations for my male patients to blend seamlessly into the beard area.
What skincare routine would you recommend for men to maintain healthy skin?
Skincare doesn’t have to be complicated. An easy, effective routine for my male patients involves a cleanser, moisturizer, sunscreen, and retinoid. Of course, there are always steps to add in (e.g., toner, exfoliator, etc.), but most men can achieve great skin with just these four steps.
