Based on our reading, the subject of men vs. women's skin also seems to be quite a contentious one.
That’s probably because there are so many variables to a person’s skin that it’s hard to conclusively say that men’s skin is like ‘X’ and women’s skin is like ‘Y’.
For example, the condition of a surfer’s skin will inevitably be different to the skin of an office-based worker who sits in an air-conditioned environment all day long. Skin health is shaped not only by genes, but also by lifestyle choices such as diet, skincare regime, smoking, and environment.
You also need to work quite hard to see any differences. At low magnification, it's difficult to distinguish between a man and a woman’s skin.
But differences do exist. When it comes to skin, men and women aren’t created equal.
At higher magnification, some structural features allow dermatologists to separate the sexes. Science reveals some fascinating differences in how male and female skin behaves – from thickness and oil production to how they age. But here’s the kicker: no matter the differences, one thing remains constant… your skin needs protecting.
Let’s break it down...
What is the role of human skin?
Before understanding any differences, it seems sensible to put into context the role of human skin.
The skin is the largest organ of the body and has three critical functions: protection, regulation, and sensation.
The primary function of the skin is to act as a barrier, providing protection from:
- Mechanical impact and pressure
- Variations in temperature
- Micro-organisms
- Radiation
- Chemicals
How men’s and women’s skin differs
1. Thicker and Denser Skin in Men
Men’s skin is about 25% thicker than women’s, thanks to higher collagen levels. This makes it more resilient but also means men can experience deeper wrinkles as they age.
Collagen is a protein that supports the skin's shape and tension. Because collagen content is directly related to the signs of skin aging, it has been said that a woman’s skin is about 15 years older than a man’s of the same age.
2. Oil Production is Higher in Men
Hormones cause men’s skin to produce more oil, leading to shinier skin and a higher risk of breakouts. This natural oil or 'sebum' waterproofs and lubricates the skin. This makes men more acne-prone and means they don’t need to use heavy cream-based products.
Women’s oil production varies with hormonal changes (think menstrual cycles or menopause).
3. Aging Looks Different
Women’s skin tends to age earlier, with fine lines appearing in their 30s, particularly after menopause when collagen production drops. Men’s skin ages later but often more dramatically, with deeper wrinkles.
In addition, many men are less sensible in the sun than women. Sun damage adds years to a man’s skin and can negate the ‘natural’ upside of having more collagen.
4. Skin Sensitivity
Women’s skin is generally more sensitive, which can make it more reactive to environmental factors and skincare products. Men’s skin, while tougher, is often irritated by shaving.
5. Sun Damage Levels
Both men and women are susceptible to sun damage, but men often get more exposure without adequate protection, putting them at higher risk of skin cancer.
6. Skin Hydration
Up to the age of 40, men have better-hydrated skin than women and their sweat rate is higher. However, after 40, men’s skin progressively dehydrates.
7. Skin pH
The pH value on the skin’s surface is lower (more acidic) in men than it is in women. The skin's acidity is one way our body fights infection and environmental stresses. Human skin has a thin, protective layer on its surface, called the acid mantle. This acid mantle is made up of sebum mixed with lactic and amino acids from sweat. Given men have higher measures of sebum and a higher sweat rate, this is likely to be what causes higher acidity on the skin's surface.
Why These Differences Matter for Skin Protection
Regardless of your skin type or gender, UV rays, pollution, and harsh weather don’t discriminate. Here’s why protecting your skin matters:
Skin Cancer Doesn’t Care About Gender: Men and women are both at risk. In fact, men often neglect sun protection more than women, leading to higher rates of skin cancer.
Aging 'better': Daily protection slows down wrinkles, discoloration, and loss of elasticity.
Long-Term Skin Health: Shielding your skin preserves its function and appearance for years to come.
How to Protect Your Skin (for Everyone)
Going back to the very first point, it's hard to apply broad brush statements when it comes to men vs. women's skin. We all have individualities to our skin, that only we can best understand having lived in our skin since birth, whether that’s oiliness, dryness, acne, tightness, sensitivity, redness, and so on.
That said, we shouldn't get carried away. Despite a few differences between men and women, skin is skin. A man doesn’t need some magic ingredient that a woman does, and vice versa.
Here’s the no-nonsense approach for everyone...
ONE SIMPLE RULE: SPF EVERY DAY
Cosmetically speaking, the sun's UV rays are the greatest threat to the structure of your skin and the visible signs of aging. They also cause skin cancer. Not enough people appreciate that these rays are present all year round. Even in winter. They also pass through cloud cover and glass, so you're not necessarily safe when sitting inside by a window or on an aeroplane.
For little extra effort, a teaspoon of moisturizer slapped on the face every morning before you walk out of the front door could make a huge difference to your skin health and your looks.
Rain or shine, indoors or out. Our SPF 30 Daily Protection Moisturizer is lightweight, non-greasy, and built for daily use.
Final Thoughts
Men and women’s skin might behave differently, but protecting it is non-negotiable for everyone. At LifeJacket, we’re here to make it simple: high-performance skincare and UPF 50+ gear designed to help you take life outside while keeping your skin safe.
Because strong, healthy skin is for everyone. Let’s protect it together.
