Cosmeceuticals for Men

The demand for topical products capable of preventing aging or delivering cosmetic improvement to the male skin is growing. Companies are marketing products that are labeled “for men.” Nevertheless, there is no consensus on which properties these products should possess. This article aims to develop a rational approach to men’s cosmeceuticals based on anatomic and physiologic features of the male skin without neglecting behavioral idiosyncrasies when relevant.

A review of the literature for skin gender singularities was used to determine the needs of male skin and subsequently to postulate how cosmeceuticals could fulfill these needs. Cosmeceutical ingredients capable of reversing sun-induced alteration are of particular benefit for men. Adapting cosmetic treatment to male grooming routines increases compliance. Shaving presents an opportunity to deliver cosmeceuticals for men. The marketing of skin care products for men is evolving and becoming seemingly complex; further research is warranted.