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Skin Care Advice for Boys

Much of the skin care advice you see is focused on girls and women. But the truth is, boys are just as concerned about the way their skin looks. A UK study done by OXY (March 2009) showed that out of 512 young men ages 16 to 24, 60% considered their appearance to be the most important thing in their life. In addition, 67% of teenagers said they were embarrassed by bad skin. Boys have different skin care needs than girls, but with proper information, boys can create a simple routine to achieve the best possible complexion.

  1. Start with the Basics

    • Boy tend to spend less time on skin care than girls, but their concerns are just as great. Start with a gentle cleanser (Cetaphil, Neutrogena, Dove). Sun protection is often overlooked, so follow with an oil-free moisturizer with a sun protection factor of at least 15 for preadolescent boys. For teens or preteens who are starting to experience breakouts, an acne cream containing salycilic acid or benzoyl peroxide should be applied after cleansing, before moisturizer, twice a day.

    Acne Issues

    • About 90% of teenagers experience acne (teengrowth.com, 2009). Acne is caused by the overproduction of oil (sebum), which clogs pores when it mixes with dead skin cells. Most is mild to moderate and can be treated with over-the-counter products. Everyone's skin is different, so you'll have to experiment with products or a combination to find which works best for you. Benzoyl peroxide (5% solution) or salicylic acid preparations will usually help. Note: Overcleansing the skin actually increases oil production, so go easy.
      If the acne is really affecting your self-esteem, it may be worth the cost to visit a dermatologist. A dermatologist can prescribe Retin-A, which comes in cream, gel and liquid forms. Other options include topical or oral antibiotics and, for severe cystic acne, the oral drug Accutane.

    Shaving Facts

    • Once a boy begins shaving, the skin is exfoliated every time he shaves, which can be beneficial. However, done improperly, shaving can dry and irritate skin or cause ingrown hairs, which can damage the skin. Use a creamy or thick shaving cream or lather to make the razor slide over your skin. Again, experiment with different kinds of razors, both disposable and electric, to see which best suits your skin type.

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