This guide is approximately a 5-minute read.
A lot of people will say that it's good for a guy to be sensitive - but when they say this, they're not talking about his skin!
Sensitive skin can actually be quite the problem for men. Its tendency to become irritated due to shaving or when exposed to different types of ingredients can make it very difficult to put together a grooming regimen.
Plus, the symptoms of sensitivity can be unpleasant, embarrassing, and downright uncomfortable.
The good news is that you can decrease your risk of sensitivity symptoms and promote healthier skin when you know how to choose grooming products for men with sensitive skin.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- What exactly is sensitive skin
- How to identify if you have sensitive skin or not
- How to choose face & skincare products if you have sensitive skin
- How to choose shaving products if you have sensitive skin
- Other tips for caring for your sensitive skin
Quick note before getting started: This content is not meant to be medical advice. If you have sensitive skin (or aren't sure if you do), please do not experiment with new grooming products without consulting with your dermatologist or doctor first.
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How to Choose: Grooming Products for Men with Sensitive Skin
What Is Sensitive Skin?
Sensitive skin is one of the basic skin types for men, but it's slightly different than other skin types.
Simply put, sensitive types are prone to reactions due to environmental conditions and certain skincare ingredients that don't bother other types of men's skin (e.g. normal skin or combination skin).
If you have sensitive skin, your complexion may also be oily, dry, or normal, but you'll need to select products that are geared toward your sensitive complexion in order to avoid unpleasant reactions.
Identifying Sensitive Skin
You likely have sensitive skin if:
- Your complexion becomes red and irritated periodically
- You experience itchiness or stinging due to certain products
- You develop razor burn with every shave
- Your skin becomes inflamed if you use strongly scented products
- You are prone to eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea outbreaks
How to Choose Face & Skincare Products for Men with Sensitive Skin
As a guy with sensitive skin, you should follow a daily regimen that includes:
Face Wash
Look for a men's face wash that is hypoallergenic or is made from 100 percent natural ingredients.
If your skin is on the oily side, a mild gel or liquid cleanser will likely be a good bet, while guys with drier sensitive skin should choose creamier moisturizing face washes.
Products with aloe vera extract, chamomile, and calendula can be especially beneficial, as they help reduce inflammation.
Face Toner
To keep your sensitive complexion healthy, you should consider using a toner daily to promote a proper moisture balance.
It's very important that you choose a toner that is free of alcohol, as this ingredient is too harsh for sensitive tissue.
Instead, try one with natural witch hazel and look for products that say hypoallergenic on the label.
Face Moisturizer
Choose a moisturizer that is hypoallergenic and free of parabens to give your skin the hydration it needs without over drying it.
For oilier skin, pick a moisturizing lotion, balm or serum, and for drier skin choose a heavier cream.
You can look for formulas with anti-inflammatory ingredients like aloe vera, calendula, and chamomile.
An example of a men’s face moisturizer that contains aloe vera and is also paraben-free is the Daily Essential Face Moisturizer from Brickell:
Sunscreen
Sunscreen is a must-have in any skincare regimen. All-natural, fragrance-free mineral-based sunscreens tend to be good choices for guys with sensitive complexions.
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In addition to the above products, you can also add the following product to your skincare routine:
Exfoliating Scrub
If hypersensitivity reactions have left your sensitive complexion feeling rough, you can exfoliate it once or twice per week with a scrub.
Look for one that uses moisturizing beads rather than pumice granules, walnut shells, and other highly abrasive materials.
Avoid exfoliators that contain ingredients like salicylic acid, which are usually too harsh for sensitive complexions.
How to Choose Shaving Products for Men with Sensitive Skin
For shaving, consider incorporating the following products into your regimen:
Pre-Shave Oil
Lubricating your face with a pre shave oil will dramatically reduce your risk of developing razor burn. Choose one that is 100 percent natural and look for hypoallergenic products.
Shaving Gel or Thick Shaving Cream
You need plenty of lubrication to protect your sensitive skin from the harsh effects of razor blades.
Shaving gels tend to be a good choice for guys with sensitive skin, but if you hate the thought of giving up a lather, you can try a thick shaving cream.
Make sure that whichever product you choose is hypoallergenic and paraben-free.
Unscented products are also a good choice for guys with sensitive complexions.
Aftershave Balm
Choose a product that is hypoallergenic and 100 percent alcohol-free to apply after you shave.
The moisturizing properties of a balm can help to hydrate your skin and soothe razor burn symptoms.
Tips for Sensitive Skin Care
Follow these tips to help keep your sensitive complexion healthy:
- In general, avoid alcohol, mineral oil, lanolin, perfumes and dyes, all of which are common irritants.
- If your dermatologist or doctor allows you to try out a product, you may want to do a spot test by applying a small amount of the formula to a discreet location, such as the skin under your jaw. Wait a day and look for any signs of irritation.
- Keep in mind that it's possible for hypersensitivity symptoms to start suddenly even if you've used a product a number of times safely. It's a good idea to only introduce one new product to your regimen at a time and use it for several weeks before you try something else new. This way, you'll have a better idea of which product is causing you trouble if a delayed reaction occurs.
- Whether you use a safety razor, a cartridge razor or a disposable razor, never shave a sensitive complexion with a dull razor. When blades become dull, razor drag increases and your risk of ending up with razor burn increases as well.
- Shave in the same direction as your hair growth rather than against it to reduce friction and protect your skin. Only apply light pressure to keep friction to a minimum.
- Men with sensitive complexions may also have sensitive body skin, so use caution when selecting hand creams, body lotions, and deodorants. A good bet is to always be to choose hypoallergenic products first, and if you can't find one, look for ones that are at least fragrance-free.
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