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Vogue
4 days ago
- Health
- Vogue
What Is the Ideal Skincare Routine for Men?
These days, try researching a standard skin-care routine for men, and you'll be met with elaborate—not to mention daunting—20-step processes. As someone who has always been extremely lazy with skincare, I always wonder when met with such laborious proposals: Do we really need to be doing all of that? Surely, an effective regimen needn't be so complicated! To test the theory, though, Vogue reached out to two leading dermatologists for their expert opinions. Here, Dr. Brendan Camp and Dr. Noah Gratch, to weigh in with their ideal men's skincare routine—including the essential steps you simply can't skip. Unsurprisingly, both of their essential skincare tips were in sync, both doubling down on the importance of daily cleansing, moisturizing, and wearing SPF. Below, the ideal five-step skincare routine for men, according to dermatologists. Vogue's Favorite Skincare for Men In This Story Step One: Cleanser Both dermatologists agree that cleansing the skin is an essential first step of any daily skin-care routine. To start, 'use a cleanser twice a day to help remove excess oil, dirt, and pollution that can cause acne and skin irritation,' says Dr. Camp. What type of face wash you use, meanwhile, will depend on your skin type. Dr. Gratch's general rule of thumb is to 'choose a gentle, sulfate-free cleanser that won't strip your skin of essential oils.' For those who lean towards dry skin, Dr. Camp even suggests cleansing only once a day, or using water only as a cleanser. Ensuring all impurities before moving onto the next step is key, in order to properly set the stage for new products to adequately absorb into skin. Step Two: Exfoliate (Only Sometimes!) While exfoliating is not recommended every single day, dermatologists do suggest doing regularly. 'I recommend exfoliating at least two or three times per week, as it removes dead skin cells, unclogs pores, and can help prevent ingrown hairs,' Dr. Gratch explains. 'This is ideal for men who shave regularly.' Product-wise, he recommends looking for chemical exfoliants with ingredients like salicylic acid or glycolic acid known to resurface and rejuvenate the skin with ease. Paula's Choice's 2% BHA toner is known to reduce blackheads and unclog pores; but those more interested in a single-use toner pad will appreciate the Dr. Dennis Gross Daily Peel—packed with a blend of alpha and beta hydroxy acids to improve radiance and overall skin feel. Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Pads $65 AMAZON Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel $92 AMAZON Step Three: Serum After cleansing and exfoliating, dermatologists recommend prepping skin with serum. 'Serums are concentrated treatments that address specific skin concerns like dullness, fine lines, or dark spots,' says Dr. Gratch. A great universal serum? Vitamin C, which 'brightens and protects against environmental stressors.' Dr. Camp also cites its benefits, explaining that the antioxidant-rich ingredient has the ability to 'neutralize the free oxygen radicals, which are unstable oxygen molecules that can damage cellular structures like DNA, lipids, and proteins,' he says. 'Used on a regular basis, they can also help brighten skin and reduce the appearance of sunspots. Products with vitamin C or retinol are effective for encouraging collagen production and minimizing the appearance of wrinkles.' Whereas, those with oily or breakout-prone skin types might appreciate a niacinamide serum—a great anti-aging option to minimize pore size, reduce inflammation, and regulate sebum production. Step Four: Moisturizer Perhaps the most universally-known skin-care step, moisturizing is a necessary step to keep the skin hydrated and plump. 'After applying a serum or treatment, apply a moisturizer to lock in the active ingredients,' Dr. Camp instructs. 'Even if not using a serum, apply a face moisturizer to maintain the integrity of the skin barrier and improve the skin's ability to remain hydrated.' Even if one has oily skin, dermatologists agree that moisturizing is key—just look for ingredients that are tailored to your needs. 'Men with oily skin should still use moisturizer, but it's best to use a lightweight, oil-free option,' Dr. Gratch adds, citing his endorsement of non-comedogenic formulas. 'I recommend moisturizing daily, morning and night. It keeps the skin barrier healthy, prevents dryness, and can help reduce signs of aging.' Certainly, feel free to use any of these as a night cream, too. Step Five: SPF Lastly, both dermatologists advise to end your routine with an SPF. Remember: sunscreen daily is a must—not just for when you are directly in the sun or on vacation. Now its just about what type of SPF you opt for to shield against those damaging UV rays. Aside from traditional sunscreen offerings, you can even find many moisturizers with SPF options on the market, meaning you can combine steps four and five if you prefer to streamline stpes. 'Include a daily SPF-infused moisturizer to your skin-care routine, and use it year-round,' says Dr. Camp. 'An SPF moisturizer may help prevent skin cancer, and it can lessen the impact of UV radiation on premature aging. This includes reducing the likelihood of developing fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots.' Dr. Gratch agrees, and suggests using at least a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher. 'This is non-negotiable! Sunscreen protects the skin from UV damage, prevents premature aging, and reduces skin cancer risk,' he says. What is the ideal men's skincare routine? AccordionItemContainerButton LargeChevron While the above regimens are pretty foolproof, there are specific considerations that one should take into account, however. For one, knowing your skin type is essential, as whether you have sensitive, combination, oily, or dry skin will help determine which products and ingredients you use. 'For example, someone with oily or acne-prone skin may want to stick with oil-free or water-based moisturizers; while, someone with dry, sensitive skin may want to avoid potentially aggravating ingredients like fragrances or dyes,' says Dr. Camp. The derms also agree this skin-care routine is a starting point—meaning, you can certainly build upon it. 'Once you have your basics locked in (think: cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen), then you can start adding serums, exfoliants, and toners,' Dr. Gratch explains. One could even add in an eye cream for dark circles, pimple patches to combat rogue blemishes, or beauty tools like LED face masks; though, he always recommends that simpler is better. 'As a dermatologist, I often remind my male patients that skincare does not have to be complicated. A solid routine is efficient, effective and includes quality ingredients.' Meet the Experts AccordionItemContainerButton LargeChevron Dr. Brendan Camp, MD, is double board-certified in dermatology and dermatopathology. He is based in New York. Dr. Noah Gratch, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in New York.
Fox News
05-07-2025
- Health
- Fox News
The gross reason experts say you should never go to bed with wet hair
Sleeping with wet hair could lead to unexpected problems. Skin and hair experts agree that going to bed before drying your hair can lead to troublesome scalp issues — and even hidden bacteria in your bedsheets. Briana Delvecchio, a hairstylist at Ashley Lauren Beauty Lounge in New York, shared in an interview with Fox News Digital that she always advises her clients against sleeping with wet hair for several reasons. When hair is wet, the hydrogen bonds in the strands are temporarily broken, making it more elastic, fragile and prone to breakage, she cautioned. "Combine that with friction from your pillowcase, and it's a recipe for split ends, tangles and long-term damage," Delvecchio said. The scalp "also takes a hit," she added, as a damp scalp trapped against a pillow overnight creates a warm, humid environment that's ideal for fungal growth and bacterial buildup. "This can trigger scalp irritation or dandruff, or even make your roots feel greasy by morning," the hairstylist warned. Sleeping with wet hair can also impact facial skin. "That moisture transfers to your pillowcase, which can harbor bacteria and oil that contribute to breakouts or flare-ups in sensitive skin," Delvecchio noted. Dr. Noah Gratch, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist in New York, told Fox News Digital in a separate interview that he also recommends against sleeping with wet hair. "While it's not dangerous, there are dermatologic and hair health concerns associated with the habit," he said. Friction against the pillow can exacerbate damage of fragile wet hair, leading to breakage and shedding over time, the dermatologist warned. The damp environment can also contribute to scalp and skin issues, he agreed. "A constantly damp scalp creates a warm, moist environment that can promote the overgrowth of Malassezia, a yeast that naturally lives on the scalp but can proliferate under these conditions," Gratch said. "This may contribute to scalp conditions, such as seborrheic dermatitis (a chronic inflammatory skin condition) or dandruff." Sleeping with wet hair also increases the risk of developing folliculitis – a skin condition that causes irritation, inflammation and bumps – or fungal infections in people with "already compromised skin barriers or oily scalps," Gratch said. The dermatologist reiterated that moisture trapped on the pillowcase can harbor bacteria, fungi and dust mites. "Prolonged skin contact with this moisture may contribute to acne flare-ups, particularly fungal acne, or exacerbate existing skin conditions like eczema," he warned. For more Health articles, visit To avoid these complications, Delvecchio recommends towel-drying the hair and using a leave-in conditioner to protect the strands before bed, in addition to blow-drying on low heat or loosely braiding the hair once it's mostly dry. "A simple routine swap goes a long way toward keeping your hair, scalp and skin healthy," she added.
Vogue
03-06-2025
- Health
- Vogue
8 Products That Skin Experts Say Can Slow Collagen Loss
The first signs of collagen loss are easy to spot. 'You might notice your skin looking a little less firm or bouncy,' board-certified dermatologist Dr. Noah Gratch tells Vogue. 'Fine lines show up more easily, you may see sagging around the jawline or under the eyes, and your skin might lose that smooth, full look. Basically, if your skin isn't 'snapping back' like it used to, collagen loss could be the reason.' Vogue's Favorite Products to Slow Collagen Loss For the uninitiated, collagen is a structural protein naturally found in the body; but its reserves decline as we age—the less collagen we have, the more signs of aging we experience. 'While we can't stop collagen loss altogether as it's a natural part of aging, there are ways to slow it down with the right approach,' Dr. Gratch continues. Healthy lifestyle habits are key, of course. Think: avoiding smoking, eating a balanced, antioxidant-rich diet, and getting adequate sleep. Next, you'll want to consider your skincare routine. Start by ensuring you have adequate sun protection . 'The biggest culprit of collagen breakdown is UV radiation, so daily use of a broad-spectrum SPF is essential,' double board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Akshay Sanan explains. Sunscreen aside, the rest of your regimen is worth evaluating too. 'While topical collagen itself can hydrate the skin, it doesn't penetrate deeply enough to stimulate collagen production where it counts (in the dermis),' he continues. 'What's more effective are products that stimulate your body's own collagen synthesis.' Ahead, experts weigh in on the collagen-boosting ingredients to know, plus the best products that incorporate them. Best With Growth Factors: SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum Why We Love It : Of all the buzzy skincare ingredients taking the market by storm right now, few come as acclaimed as growth factors, which double-board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Eunice Park explained 'act as signaling molecules that communicate with skin cells to stimulate collagen production.' Of the formulas available, SkinMedica's TNS Advanced+ is the most expert-endorsed. A first-of-its-kind formula, this is powered by human fibroblast conditioned media (naturally rich in growth factors) to improve the look of wrinkles, fine lines, and skin texture within weeks. : Of all the buzzy skincare ingredients taking the market by storm right now, few come as acclaimed as growth factors, which double-board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Eunice Park explained 'act as signaling molecules that communicate with skin cells to stimulate collagen production.' Of the formulas available, SkinMedica's TNS Advanced+ is the most expert-endorsed. A first-of-its-kind formula, this is powered by human fibroblast conditioned media (naturally rich in growth factors) to improve the look of wrinkles, fine lines, and skin texture within weeks. Key Ingredients : Human fibroblast conditioned media, peptides, algae extracts : Human fibroblast conditioned media, peptides, algae extracts Size: 1 fl. oz Best Daily Moisturizer: Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream Why We Love It : Slowing collagen loss certainly doesn't have to break the bank; and this option by Olay Regenerist is proof. Dr. Gratch calls it a solid, everyday moisturizer that helps firm the skin and improve elasticity. 'It contains niacinamide (a form of vitamin B3) and peptides, both of which help support the skin barrier and boost collagen over time,' he says. 'It's great for anyone looking for visible results without a big price tag.' Boasting a rich, yet lightweight texture, it sinks well into skin morning or night, making it great for all skin types—it's no wonder its garnered over 17,000 5-star reviews on Amazon. Want a sunscreen version? Pick up the SPF 30 bottle, too. : Slowing collagen loss certainly doesn't have to break the bank; and this option by Olay Regenerist is proof. Dr. Gratch calls it a solid, everyday moisturizer that helps firm the skin and improve elasticity. 'It contains niacinamide (a form of vitamin B3) and peptides, both of which help support the skin barrier and boost collagen over time,' he says. 'It's great for anyone looking for visible results without a big price tag.' Boasting a rich, yet lightweight texture, it sinks well into skin morning or night, making it great for all skin types—it's no wonder its garnered over 17,000 5-star reviews on Amazon. Want a sunscreen version? Pick up the SPF 30 bottle, too. Key Ingredients : Niacinamide, amino acids, hyaluronic acid : Niacinamide, amino acids, hyaluronic acid Size: 1.7 oz Best Drugstore: RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Night Cream RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Night Cream $30 $20 AMAZON Why We Love It : 'This drugstore favorite has been around for a reason,' Dr. Gratch says. 'It uses retinol to help smooth out fine lines and support collagen production.' In my test, I found it to be exceptionally gentle, yet powerful enough to keep skin plump and bouncy. And at $30 a tube, 'it's a good starter retinol for anyone new to anti-aging skincare, effective, affordable, and easy to find.' : 'This drugstore favorite has been around for a reason,' Dr. Gratch says. 'It uses retinol to help smooth out fine lines and support collagen production.' In my test, I found it to be exceptionally gentle, yet powerful enough to keep skin plump and bouncy. And at $30 a tube, 'it's a good starter retinol for anyone new to anti-aging skincare, effective, affordable, and easy to find.' Key Ingredients : Retinol, glycolic acid, squalane, shea butter : Retinol, glycolic acid, squalane, shea butter Size: 1.0 fl. oz. Best for Wrinkles: iS Clinical Youth Complex Why We Love It : 'This anti-aging serum hydrates, firms, and stimulates collagen with a combination of peptides, antioxidants, and botanical extracts,' Dr. Sanan tells. 'It has both immediate skin smoothening and long term structural support effects.' Not only does it deliver exceptional tightening and plumping to fine lines and wrinkles, but it feels quite lightweight on the complexion—achieving desired results sans irritation or dryness. : 'This anti-aging serum hydrates, firms, and stimulates collagen with a combination of peptides, antioxidants, and botanical extracts,' Dr. Sanan tells. 'It has both immediate skin smoothening and long term structural support effects.' Not only does it deliver exceptional tightening and plumping to fine lines and wrinkles, but it feels quite lightweight on the complexion—achieving desired results sans irritation or dryness. Key Ingredients : Tripeptide-1, hyaluronic acid, fruit acids (Vaccinium Myrtillus, orange, lemon, sugar maple), white willow bark : Tripeptide-1, hyaluronic acid, fruit acids (Vaccinium Myrtillus, orange, lemon, sugar maple), white willow bark Size: 1 oz. Best Retinol: Medik8 Crystal Retinal 1 Serum Why We Love It : Medik8's Crystal Retinal serum works wonders for beginners to experienced retinol users for its range of concentrations offered. From 0.01% - 0.24% retinaldehyde (a form of vitamin A that works faster than regular retinol but tends to be gentler on the skin, per Dr. Gratch), this blends the anti-aging powerhouse with hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, and glycerin to balance out its potency with expert nourishing agents. 'It's released slowly overnight, so you get great results, like fewer fine lines and smoother skin, without the irritation some people get from stronger retinoids,' he continues. : Medik8's Crystal Retinal serum works wonders for beginners to experienced retinol users for its range of concentrations offered. From 0.01% - 0.24% retinaldehyde (a form of vitamin A that works faster than regular retinol but tends to be gentler on the skin, per Dr. Gratch), this blends the anti-aging powerhouse with hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, and glycerin to balance out its potency with expert nourishing agents. 'It's released slowly overnight, so you get great results, like fewer fine lines and smoother skin, without the irritation some people get from stronger retinoids,' he continues. Key Ingredients : Encapsulated retinaldehyde, hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, glycerin : Encapsulated retinaldehyde, hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, glycerin Size: 30 mL Best With Peptides: Alastin Restorative Skin Complex Alastin Restorative Skin Complex $242 AMAZON Why We Love It : 'Alastin's formula is packed with peptides and a blend they call TriHex Technology, which helps your skin clear out damaged collagen and make room for new, healthy collagen and elastin,' Dr. Gratch explains. 'Over time, it can make your skin feel firmer and look more even.' These benefits are bolstered by the inclusion of niacinamide, silver mushroom, and hydrolyzed pea protein which supports skin's repair, moisture levels, and evenness. : 'Alastin's formula is packed with peptides and a blend they call TriHex Technology, which helps your skin clear out damaged collagen and make room for new, healthy collagen and elastin,' Dr. Gratch explains. 'Over time, it can make your skin feel firmer and look more even.' These benefits are bolstered by the inclusion of niacinamide, silver mushroom, and hydrolyzed pea protein which supports skin's repair, moisture levels, and evenness. Key Ingredients : TriHex Technology, niacinamide, silver mushroom : TriHex Technology, niacinamide, silver mushroom Size: 1.0 fl. oz / 29.6 mL Best With Exosomes: Plated Skin Science Intense Serum Why We Love It : The beauty of exosome skincare is its regenerative and anti-inflammatory properties, which can spur skin's natural repair processes to address varied signs of collagen loss from sagging to pigmentation, as Dr. Park previously told Vogue. Of the topical treatments available, Dr. Sanan cites this serum by Plated Skin Science as one to watch. 'A cutting-edge serum powered by lab-grown exosomes derived from platelet growth factors,' he says, '[this] promotes skin regeneration, enhances collagen production, and improves elasticity–ideal for aging or post-procedure skin needing rejuvenation from within.' : The beauty of exosome skincare is its regenerative and anti-inflammatory properties, which can spur skin's natural repair processes to address varied signs of collagen loss from sagging to pigmentation, as Dr. Park previously told Vogue. Of the topical treatments available, Dr. Sanan cites this serum by Plated Skin Science as one to watch. 'A cutting-edge serum powered by lab-grown exosomes derived from platelet growth factors,' he says, '[this] promotes skin regeneration, enhances collagen production, and improves elasticity–ideal for aging or post-procedure skin needing rejuvenation from within.' Key Ingredients : : Size: Best with Vitamin C: Revision Skincare DEJ Daily Boosting Serum Revision Skincare DEJ Daily Boosting Serum $225 AMAZON Why We Love It : Dr. Sanan is partial to Revision Skincare's DEJ Daily Boosting Serum for its antioxidant-rich composition that supports cellular energy and collagen production. 'It strengthens the skin barrier, improves firmness,' he says, by way of by way of NAD+, adaptogens, and peptides, plus a host of postbiotics and skin-nourishing agents which act to improve the look of wrinkles, pigmentation, and texture with ease. : Dr. Sanan is partial to Revision Skincare's DEJ Daily Boosting Serum for its antioxidant-rich composition that supports cellular energy and collagen production. 'It strengthens the skin barrier, improves firmness,' he says, by way of by way of NAD+, adaptogens, and peptides, plus a host of postbiotics and skin-nourishing agents which act to improve the look of wrinkles, pigmentation, and texture with ease. Key Ingredients : Acetyl hexapeptide-1, sunflower sprout extract technology, Antioxidant Blend [THD Ascorbate (vitamin C), resveratrol, red seaweed], iris florentina root extract, Postbiotic Blend [Saccharomyces ferment filtrate, saccharide isomerate, bacillus ferment] : Acetyl hexapeptide-1, sunflower sprout extract technology, Antioxidant Blend [THD Ascorbate (vitamin C), resveratrol, red seaweed], iris florentina root extract, Postbiotic Blend [Saccharomyces ferment filtrate, saccharide isomerate, bacillus ferment] Size: 1 oz.
