No matter what you’ve heard, read, or think you know, there are only a couple real differences between men’s and women’s skin. For starters, testosterone increases the amount of collagen and elastin in the skin, resulting in thicker (25 percent thicker, in fact) and tougher skin than women. On top of that, men’s sebaceous (or in laymen’s terms: oil) glands go into overdrive after puberty, and for most, continue to pose a problem (think pimples, blackheads, and slick, shiny skin) well into adulthood.
The good news is that there’s one (not a typo) natural (again, not a typo) ingredient that can not only help combat overactive oil glands, but also penetrate deep into the skin to hydrate and deliver other anti-aging benefits. And that’s oil.
True, most of us grew up being told to stay away from it. It’ll make your breakouts worse and clog your pores, commercials would warn. And the boom of oil-free skincare also fenced us into believing that the only way to keep our skin healthy and clear was to steer clear from oil.
Well, this writer is here to tell you it’s time to shift your thinking. Now. New York-based dermatologist Dr. Jessica Weiser of the famed New York Dermatology Group is also a firm believer in using oils, and says, “they’ve gotten a bad reputation for no good reason. There are many common myths about oils that are false, so here are the truths: oils do not trigger acne. Oils do not clog pores. Oils are safe and even beneficial for oily skin as well as dry skin, and oils are rich in nutrients and antioxidants.”
In terms of how oils can help minimize oily skin, Weiser says, “applying oils that are lightweight (not waxy or occlusive oils like coconut oil) can actually regulate your skin’s innate oil productions, making it less oily and acne prone.”
And if you run on the dry side, you’re still in luck. “Unlike water-based moisturizers where the water component evaporates leaving the skin feeling dry again, oils actually penetrate and saturate skin cells because they are lipophilic (fat-loving) to better maintain hydration.”
So, what are you waiting for? Grab one of these products right now and watch your skin naturally get into the best shape possible.
Colbert MD Illumino Face Oil
A favorite of Weiser’s, this one is “full of antioxidants, humectants, and retinol for excellent anti-aging benefits. In addition, it restores smooth and even skin tone and texture to all skin types.” Plus, the faintly fruity scent makes it even more enjoyable to use.
$140.00 at Amazon.com
Jack Black Epic Moisture MP10 Nourishing Oil
A real multitasker, there’s little this sheer, silky formula can’t do. Use it as a pre-shave to lubricate skin and cushion against razor irritation. Use it on damp skin as a quick-absorbing moisturizer. Use it on hair to tame frizz and pump up the shine.
$32.00 at Amazon.com
Martial Vivot Beard & Face Oil
New York’s most celebrated men’s hairstylist launched this product to address the concerns of his bearded clientele. Just a couple drops conditions and hydrates coarse, dry whiskers, and imparts a sexy scent of frankincense and oakwood.
Available October 1 at MartialVivot.com
Malin+Goetz Facial Cleansing Oil
Say no to high-lathering soaps, which can strip skin of natural oils and make an already slick situation even worse. Just massage a couple pumps onto dry skin, rinse off with warm water, and marvel at how awesome your skin looks and feels afterwards.
$42.00 at Amazon.com
La Mer’s The Renewal Oil
Simply shake the bottle to activate the innovative dual-phase formula. Not only will it deliver anti-aging benefits deep in the skin with eucalyptus and sesame oils, it will also help protect against free radicals and environmental aggressors.
Available October 1 at CremeDeLaMer.com
League Organic Shave Oil
Ditch the cheap drugstore shave foam and reach for this unique blend of lightweight oils instead. To protect even the most sensitive faces against razor burn and irritation, apply a few drops before showering and shaving.
$25.00 at LeagueSkincare.com