A guy’s guide: Do you have sensitive skin?

Red, sore, itchy, flaky… if your skin isn’t happy, nor are you. Sensitive skin can be something you’ve always had or it can be caused by stress, allergies, pollution or even the weather. If you’re currently suffering, there’s plenty you can do. Here are our top skin hacks for men…

sensitive skincare products for men alongside cotton wool and flannels on a marble background

1. Read the packaging

When shopping for new products, take time to look at the labels. Avoid anything containing alcohol, fragrance or colorants, which are common irritants for sensitive complexions. If a product says ‘hypoallergenic’ or ‘dermatologically tested’, these are often safer for sensitive skin.

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Avene Avène Skin Saviour Routine Kit Very Sensitive Skin £1.00

2. Use shaving gel NOT foam

Foam is drying and potentially irritating as it tends to be detergent based, while a gel contains more moisturisers and is gentler on the skin. Try also shaving with the direction of the hair growth, not against it.

Superdrug Superdrug Mens Sensitive Skin Shave Gel 200ml £0.66

3. Go on a skincare diet

If you’ve been overloading your face with rich products in an effort to soothe itchy or sore sensitive skin, you may be doing more harm than good. Rich creams can clog skin, block pores and aggravate sensitivity. Get back to basics with a gentle face wash twice a day and a light fluid moisturiser.

Nivea Men NIVEA MEN Sensitive Face Moisturiser with 0% Alcohol, 75ml £9.95 Buy 1 get 1 free on selected Nivea Men

4. Wear a daily sunscreen

Sunshine can be an enemy of sensitive skin, drying it out even further and aggravating inflammatory conditions such as rosacea. Keep skin protected by wearing an SPF of at least 20+ every day.

Simple Simple Kind To Skin Vital Vitamin Day Cream SPF 15 50ml £2.70

5. Pat, don’t rub

After washing your face, don’t rub it dry vigorously with your towel. Instead, pat it gently. And if your towels are rough and threadbare, it might be time to invest in new soft ones for your face.

6. Reduce your water temp

We know a scorching shower or steaming bath can be relaxing, but if your skin is sensitive, really hot water can make it worse. Keep showers warm and baths comfortably tepid.

7. Steer clear of abrasive scrubs

You may be tempted to scrub dry patches, but if you’re sensitive, abrasive scrubs will leave your skin red and inflamed. Look for smaller, gentler particles if you still enjoy the squeaky-clean sensation.

Superdrug Superdrug Men Gentle Exfoliating Facial Scrub 150ml £0.10