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question

Is it OK for men to use women's skincare products?

Dr. Ellen Marmur, MD
Dr. Ellen Marmur, MD
Dermatology
answer
Yes! Male skin is totally different from female skin on some levels and exactly the same on others.

Male hormones tend to produce more oil on a man's face than a woman's. But, if men shave every day, that exfoliates the skin, which can lead to dryness. And using shaving cream, which is a form of soap, may dry it out even more. If it does, use a light moisturizer. One thing men can probably skip is a facial wash, since rinsing the skin in the shower is probably sufficient.

Do men need their own special line of men's products? Not really. It's a matter of personal preference, since they're essentially all the same ingredients -- just wrapped up in more masculine packaging. If the scent of a women's moisturizers is too girly, go for a more unisex, fragrance-free type.

Men should also have their own product at the ready to treat ingrown hairs that may get inflamed or irritation from shaving (something like Bliss Ingrown Hair Eliminating Peeling Pads with salicylic acid to keep pores unplugged and moisturizing glycerin to soothe the skin).
Simple Skin Beauty: Every Woman's Guide to a Lifetime of Healthy, Gorgeous Skin

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Simple Skin Beauty: Every Woman's Guide to a Lifetime of Healthy, Gorgeous Skin

What if a leading dermatologist just happened to be your best friend and you could ask her anything? DR. ELLEN MARMUR, a world-renowned New York City dermatologist, answers all your questions with...

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.