Skincare for men: Why you should care

Skin care products. [IStock]

Men have been encouraged to take better care of their skin to prevent and manage common conditions such as acne, eczema, and infections.

Cosmetic dermatologist Dr Venkatesh Narasimhan, appearing on Spice FM on Friday, warned that consuming heavy, calorie-dense dairy products with low nutritional value may contribute to acne. Speaking during an interview on Spice FM on Friday, July 25.

He recommended incorporating probiotics into one’s diet and sticking to a simple skincare routine, especially for those without existing issues, consisting of a cleanser, moisturiser, and sunscreen.

Dr Narasimhan also cautioned against using the same moisturiser for both the face and body, noting that facial skin tends to produce more oil and requires different care.

For individuals with dry skin, he advised lukewarm showers, no hotter than necessary and limited to about eight minutes, along with the use of mild soaps.

“Dry skin, medically known as xerosis, can be a sign of underlying eczema. This means the skin barrier is compromised, making it more prone to inflammation, itchiness, scariness, and discomfort, especially in individuals with a history of eczema.”

The dermatologist also discouraged the excessive use of skincare products, recommending a basic three-step routine: cleanser, moisturiser, and sunscreen.

“We see the trend of using too many products that can damage your skin. We don’t need many products…only a few, used consistency,” he added.

Common issues he sees include acne, enzyme-related conditions, and bacterial and fungal infections.

Dr Narasimhan also addressed a common misconception: that people with darker skin do not need sunscreen.

“The misconception that people of color have melanin and do not need sun protection is something to push back against because everyone needs some level of sun protection.’’

Adding: “Melanin is a protective element in our skin. When you get a tan, it offers some protection, but that doesn’t mean you’re fully protected.’’

He further advised against frequent facial scrubs during barber visits, particularly for men with dry skin. “Scrubbing should be done only once every 30 to 45 days, if needed,” he said.

As part of overall health care, he urged men to monitor their skin for any unusual changes and noted that cumulative sun exposure significantly impacts long-term skin health.