Ask The Expert: Bro, what's your skincare routine? Do you even moisturise?

Skin types and concerns vary from person to person, regardless of gender. This should be taken into consideration when guys adopt a skincare regime. Photo: The Ordinary

Ask The Expert is a column where we get experts to answer questions on topics related to fashion and beauty.

Here, Prudvi Kaka, chief scientific officer of beauty company Deciem, lays down the basics of skincare that men should know.

Is it alright if I steal my girlfriend’s skincare products? What works for women will work for men too, right? – JD, Shah Alam

We believe in skincare that is effective and suitable for everyone, regardless of gender.

Our products are formulated based on skin concerns and types rather than gender, so what works for one person can often work for another.

However, it’s important to remember that skin types and concerns vary from person to person.

What would you recommend as a skincare routine for active men? I hit the weights six times a week and suffer from bad breakouts. For a guy who trains for marathons, how should I protect my skin? – PT, Selangor

The basic functions of a skincare regimen should always cover adequate cleansing and moisturising of the skin.

Prudvi Kaka, chief scientific officer of beauty company Deciem, says that men should know the importance of understanding and identifying your skin conditions first. This is the first step in building a skincare routine. Photo: The Ordinary

This may be achieved by using a cleanser in the morning, followed by application of a hydration serum and/or moisturiser.

Look for skincare products that can be incorporated into a super low maintenance skincare routine.

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I’m noticing that there are now more two-in-one skincare products available in the market. So, why can’t I use my body wash to clean my face? – Huzairi, Hartamas

While two-in-one products are convenient, it’s best not to use body wash on your face.

Facial skin is more sensitive and has different needs compared to body skin. Body washes might be too harsh or disrupt the skin’s natural balance.

For optimal results, use a facial cleanser that’s specifically formulated for your face’s unique needs.

I cleanse and moisturise my face on a daily basis. Do I really need to add on other products into my grooming routine? – Khir, JB

Remember to apply sunscreen as the last step of a skincare regimen in the morning.

It is also important to note that you should reapply sunscreen every two hours or after water-exposure, towel-drying, swimming or extensive sweating.

You can include exfoliation into your regular routine. Do take note of the formulation though, as one must take the acid’s strength, pH, pKa, skin type and tolerance, and the format of the formula into consideration.

Developing skin tolerance is equally important when using chemical exfoliants as one must build their tolerance beginning from low concentrations and upwards to mitigate the chances of developing skin sensitivities.

It is recommended to adhere to the specified product directions.

For serums, each different one is dependent on the active ingredients present and the intended purpose of the formulation.

Generally speaking, serums can be applied both morning and night and are usually daily use.

I suffer from dry skin around my chin and lips area, while the rest of my face gets oily easily. What should I do to solve this? – Peter, PJ

It can be quite difficult for one to self-diagnose what skin type they have. It is always best to consult a physician in getting one’s skin type assessed.

Examples of skin conditions would be dryness, congestion, dullness, signs of ageing, and sensitivity.

There are various skincare products that help in the management of these skin conditions.

Understanding and identifying your skin conditions is important in building a skincare routine that will target and help manage these skin conditions.

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I’m a pretty hairy guy. Can I apply the beard oil that I use daily on the rest of my face as moisturiser? - Dave, Bangsar

Men may explore using cleansers with squalane (a saturated oil that’s used in skincare products as a moisturiser) for shaving, as well as cleansing.

However, do note that you may notice a difference.

Some may not have the foaming ability similar to that of a conventional shaving cream.

We do not recommend using beard oil all over the face.

Also, be aware that there are gender-related differences in skin morphology that one must take into consideration – especially when facial hair comes into the picture.

Shaving contributes to inducing the state of compromised skin. As such, it is best to avoid exfoliating ingredients, such as acids, and to be cautious of products with a low pH. Do you have any questions on fashion and beauty? Email us with the subject heading Ask The Expert to [e-mail]. Please include your name, address, contact number and if you prefer, a pseudonym.