Sure, we’re all created equal, but not quite the same. That applies to much of our physiology including our skin. Besides the obvious presence of thick, fast growing facial hair on male skin, there are structural differences between male and female skin. Let’s compare the two…

Generally speaking, male skin is about 25% thicker than female skin and thins gradually with age. Female skin remains constant until after menopause at which time it thins significantly. Men generally have higher collagen density than women and often do not age as prematurely as women but when ageing of men begins, it is more prominent than in women.

Male skin texture is tougher and rougher because of a thicker stratum corneum. This explains the difference in facial wrinkling that develops over the years, where men are prone to developing deeper facial wrinkles while women have more superficial fine lines.

Because men tend to have larger pores and produce more sebum, they are often subject to blemished skin for longer periods than women whose sebum production decreases with age. Male skin will typically be oilier and shinier than female skin – and more prone to pimples and acne.

While there are plenty of biological differences between male and female skin, there’s one problem men create themselves: shaving. The act of shaving puts added friction and stress on the skin. It also removes the top layer of skin cells and exposes a more sensitive layer of skin that’s prone to irritation.

Women have been known to look after their skin much better than men, but more and more guys are discovering the benefits of a good skincare routine. LeRêve’s Bio-Scientific Skincare is formulated to be unisex – suitable for men and women – as the same care principles apply to both even though their skin types differ. Sun protection, hydration, cleansing, exfoliating and regenerating are all necessary steps in the skincare rituals of men and women. Remember, it’s never too late to improve your skin, so start today and your future self will love you for it.