Dr. Om answers the most asked questions by our male dermatology patients.
When it comes to protecting and caring for our skin, much of the information out there is written for women. However, we know first hand that many men have questions and aren’t even sure where to find the answers, so we asked our own Dr. Om to answer our male patients’ most common questions. Read on for his advice related to men’s skincare, skin cancer, hair loss and more.
BASIC SKINCARE
Some of the most common skincare issues men face include acne – particularly during adolescence and adult years – excessive oiliness or shine, dry skin, and sensitivity. Shaving habits also become a topic of discussion among middle-aged men as their skin changes.
What am I doing wrong with my skincare?
“One common skincare mistake I see more often in men compared to female patients is neglecting proper moisturization,” shares Dr. Om. “Men often underestimate the importance of moisturizing their skin, leading to dryness, flakiness, and even increased oil production as the skin tries to compensate for the lack of hydration.”
Is it normal to have acne as an adult?
“Adult acne can certainly be a concern for men. It is not uncommon for men to experience acne breakouts well into adulthood. It can be frustrating and impact self-esteem, but there are various treatment options available that can help manage and improve the condition.”
Should men use special products for their skin or can they also use Zo, Elta MD, etc. (even though they are mainly marketed to women)?
“While skincare products may be marketed towards specific genders, it is important to note that the basic principles of skincare remain the same. Men can absolutely use products like Zo, Elta MD, or other reputable brands marketed towards women. The key is to choose products suitable for your skin type and concerns, regardless of the gender-specific marketing.”
AGING AND SKIN CANCER
The most common question we see from men regarding their skin is: “Can golfing cause skin cancer?” And of course the answer is, any time spent exposed to the sun – especially without frequent and thorough application of sunscreen – puts you at risk for sun damage and skin cancer. Don’t forget to apply and reapply well and often when you hit the links!
What should I be most worried about?
“The biggest threat to men’s skin health is the same as is it for women – the sun. However, men tend to spend more time outdoors (both recreationally and occupationally) and are often less diligent in protecting their skin from harmful UV rays. Prolonged sun exposure without proper sun protection can lead to premature aging, wrinkles, sunspots, and an increased risk of skin cancer.”
Are men more likely to develop skin cancer than women? And are you at a higher risk if you don’t see a dermatologist regularly?
Dr. Om shared “In general, men tend to have a higher incidence of skin cancer compared to women. Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) and Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): Both BCC and SCC are the most common types of skin cancer. It has been observed that approximately 65% and 60% of BCC and SCC, respectively, occur in men. Melanoma is a more aggressive form of skin cancer. It is less common than BCC and SCC but has a higher potential to spread. In general, men have a higher risk of developing melanoma compared to women, and the mortality rate is also higher among men. After about age 50, men are more likely than women to both develop and die from melanoma, in fact, as much as 2-3x more likely. Before age 49, more women than men develop melanoma, probably due to women’s greater use of tanning beds. The distribution of skin cancer on different body sites also varies between men and women. Men are more likely to develop skin cancer on the trunk (chest and back), whereas women are more prone to skin cancer on the legs and arms.”
HAIR LOSS
A very common concern for men is the loss of hair, across a wide range of ages and races. However, many men don’t realize their dermatologist is well qualified to help in this area, as well.
Does a dermatologist also treat scalp health and hair loss?
“Yes, as a dermatologist, I do treat scalp health and hair loss. Many dermatologists specialize in hair and scalp conditions, including hair loss, dandruff, scalp psoriasis, and other related issues. At DLVSC, we specialize in both medical treatments and newer treatments for hair loss. If you have concerns about your scalp or hair, consulting with a dermatologist would be beneficial.”
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If you have any other questions specific to men’s skincare or just haven’t been seen by a board-certified dermatologist in a while, make an appointment. Our providers will take the time to discuss your specific concerns and help you establish a plan for protecting and caring for your skin.