Men’s Skin Treatment Insights

Facial skin differs between men and women not only in appearance but also in biological structure and behavior. On average, male facial skin is about 20 % thicker than female skin. It also tends to produce more oil (sebum) and has larger pores. — Eucerin

These characteristics — greater thickness, higher oiliness, and a denser collagen matrix — influence how skin responds to topical products and facial treatments. Because the outermost layer of the skin (the stratum corneum) acts as a barrier, a thicker skin surface or oilier texture may reduce how effectively skincare products penetrate. This helps explain why facial treatments designed with female skin in mind might not perform the same on men’s skin.

At the same time, behaviours linked to grooming — especially shaving — add another layer of complexity. Shaving can subtly change the skin’s barrier, and repeated shaving can lead to irritation or changes in texture over time. — Eucerin

Exfoliation First — Why It Makes Sense

Because of the barrier posed by the outer skin layers, many specialists recommend starting with an exfoliation step when aiming for deeper treatment or absorption. One widely used method is mechanical exfoliation.

For example, microdermabrasion gently removes the outermost dead cells of the skin. Scientific studies indicate that microdermabrasion can improve the skin’s smoothness, contribute to a more even tone, and — importantly — enhance the penetration of topically applied ingredients into the viable layers of the skin. — American Society for Dermatologic Surgery

One study showed that combining microdermabrasion with a topical antioxidant significantly increased dermal thickness, collagen deposition, and fibroblast density compared with microdermabrasion alone — in other words, some active ingredients reach deeper and have a stronger effect when applied after exfoliation. — PubMed

Therefore, when treating male facial skin — with its inherent thickness and barrier properties — beginning with a controlled exfoliation can help improve the performance of subsequent treatments.

Why Men’s Skin Treatment Often Needs More — and How Routine Use Is Changing

Historically, many men skipped regular skincare routines such as moisturising or applying serums. But recent market data shows a shift: an increasing number of men globally are using moisturizing creams, lotions, serums, or sunscreens — sometimes daily — reflecting growing interest in skin maintenance and anti-aging. — Euromonitor

Given men’s tendency toward thicker, oilier, more collagen-rich skin — plus the effects of shaving — treatments targeted at men often need somewhat greater potency or more robust delivery (e.g., deeper penetration, stronger active ingredients) than those aimed at women. That said, success still depends on skin type, tolerance, and care after treatment (hydration, sun protection, gentle maintenance). — MDPI

Combining Exfoliation with a “Rejuvenation” Treatment — Why It Could Work

Pairing exfoliation (like microdermabrasion) with a subsequent rejuvenation-type treatment can make sense in principle:

Exfoliation prepares the skin by removing the outer barrier and smoothing surface irregularities.
The follow-up treatment — whether using mechanical stimulation, massage, topical nutrients, or other delivery methods — can take advantage of temporarily increased permeability and improved absorption.
As seen in studies, when active agents (like antioxidants) are applied after exfoliation, the skin may show improved structure (more collagen, increased dermal thickness) and better visible results. — PubMed

However, effectiveness depends on the technique used, the individual’s skin characteristics (including sensitivity, oiliness, pigmentation, and reaction to shaving), and after-care. Overly aggressive treatment or poor post-treatment care can lead to redness, irritation, pigmentation changes, or other side effects. — ScienceDirect

Bottom Line: A Tailored, Stepwise Approach

Because male skin is generally thicker, oilier, and has a denser collagen structure — coupled with factors like shaving — a one-size-fits-all facial treatment is unlikely to work equally well for men and women.
Starting with a gentle but effective exfoliation (such as microdermabrasion) helps remove the outer barrier and improves absorption of subsequent treatments.
Following exfoliation with a deeper delivery treatment (e.g., a rejuvenation-style procedure, topical nutrients, or mechanical stimulation) may improve results — but must be tailored to the individual’s skin condition and post-treatment care should not be overlooked.
Maintaining skin health over time still requires a baseline routine: gentle cleansing, proper hydration, sun protection during the day, and avoiding overly aggressive or frequent exfoliation.

In short: male skin often benefits from a customized, layered approach — one that prepares the skin, applies treatment thoughtfully, and follows up with care. When done properly, this approach can help maximize results while minimizing risk.

Selected References & Further Reading

Bangkok’s Best Men’s Facial Treatment

Market studies reflecting rising adoption of skin care routines among men. — Euromonitor

Review on structural differences between male and female skin. — ScienceDirect

Data on male skin thickness, oiliness, sebum production, and aging patterns. — Eucerin

Research showing improved penetration and skin structure when microdermabrasion is combined with topical actives. — PubMed