A Beginner’s Guide to Dry Skin for Men

Whether you are looking to learn a little more about dry skin and if you have it or need tips on how to treat dry skin, you found the right place. Men can have different experiences with dry skin but do not panic; there are ways to take care of it and relieve its symptoms.

There are a few factors to keep in mind in terms of causes and treatment when you have dry skin, so we've put together a quick guide to help men learn more about it and how to treat it. Having dry skin is very common; it can be that your skin is naturally dry all year round or affected by seasonal changes. Having flaky and tight feeling skin is never ideal. Either way, we got you! 

What does it mean to have dry skin?

Men with dry skin will notice their face (and any other affected areas) rough to touch, flaky, and tight as it lacks elasticity. Sometimes, it can even look cracked. Dry skin may also lead to redness and irritation (source).

Dry skin can start with low sebum production. Sebum is the oily substance produced in the sebaceous glands in every pore (source) that supports retaining moisture in the skin, building and maintaining our protective barrier. Dry and sensitive skin can go hand in hand sometimes. 

Our skin naturally produces oil (sebum), those with a big sebum production have oily skin, but those with very low sebum production have dry skin. Sebum is then transported to the exterior of the skin through hair follicles. Besides low sebum production, there are a few other factors that play a role in our skin health. 

What Else Can Cause Men To Have Dry Skin?

Genetics

You may naturally have dry skin as your skin type because of your genetics. Therefore, you need to use a moisturiser daily and keep up with your skincare routine since you are predisposed to dry skin.

Ageing

As you get older, collagen production naturally decreases in your skin. Collagen is a protein our body produces to help build and maintain our skin and bones. Less collagen can make your skin look and feel drier and is responsible for fine lines, wrinkles, and droopy skin as you age.

Environment

Sun, wind, cold weather, and dry air can all affect how your skin retains moisture (it can be either sitting by an air conditioner or heating all day at work or at home). The time of year makes a difference, too, as weather changes can affect how your skin feels and looks. 

Using The Wrong Skincare Products 

Using harsh skincare products that strip your skin of its natural oils can make other skin types feel dry and flaky as it throws off the natural balance of your skin. Using heavy, fragranced products or over-exfoliating can irritate and dry your skin. Doing your research on products and ingredients before putting your skincare routine together is very important. 

Water Temperature 

Using water that’s too hot can dry out your skin, making it feel tight and uncomfortable. Dropping your water temperature can be great for your skin (and  some say even mental health).

Medication or Medical Conditions 

If you suspect your dry skin is down to a medical condition, speak to a doctor or health professional who can give you a diagnosis and plan your treatment. Some medications can make your skin feel dry, so check out any side effects and speak to your doctor. 

How Should Men Deal With Dry Skin?

The best way to improve your skin health is by putting a specific routine in place and being consistent with it. Also start thinking about everything you put into your body, as your diet may improve or worsen how your skin feels and looks (source). 

As mentioned, when you start looking into products to build your men's dry skincare routine, make sure to read up on the fine print of the products you're getting, the last thing you want is to irritate the skin with harsh products.

Ingredients And Routine For Men’s Dry Skin

Considering everyone has different skin types and concerns to tackle, it’s important to know what products would fit your needs to learn how to treat dry skin. Below are few common ingredients you can consider adding to your skincare routine (source):

• Cocoa Butter
• Aloe Vera
• Hyaluronic Acid

What To Avoid If You Have Dry Skin

To help make your product search even easier, let’s narrow down the list. Below are a few ingredients to avoid when putting your skincare routine together. These might irritate or be too harsh on dry skin, so make sure you keep an eye on what you are purchasing (source).

• Chemical Peels
• Glycolic Acid
• Benzoyl
• Peroxide
• Salicylic Acid

Men’s Dry Skin-Care Routine Started

If you want to replenish the moisture in your dry skin, then going gently is key. Use a gentle non-foaming cleanser to rebalance your skin. You might find a cleansing milk or balm as it feels more nourishing on your skin than a foaming cleanser.

Avoid over-exfoliating your skin if it’s dry, and stick to chemical exfoliators. Use the right shave products for your routine, too, as shaving can dry out your skin.

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