Literally — a man’s skin is about 25% thicker and firmer than a woman’s. Having higher levels of testosterone hormones in their blood, men’s dermis and epidermis skin layers are thicker, have more elastin and collagen (gives skin firmness and elasticity) than women. The upside of this means a man’s resistance to aging skin (lines, wrinkles, and skin laxity) is higher than a woman’s. The downside? Thicker skin means that a man’s skin texture is tougher.

Thicker skin has a higher concentration of blood vessels. Men have a larger number and a higher concentration of blood vessels, especially on the cheekbones. This causes a reddish hue to the skin that is typically perceived as sun damaged and unhealthy.

After puberty, sebum (oil) production is greater in males than females, which is attributed to androgen (testosterone) secretions. This is why men have longer lasting acne. Increased oil production also congests the skin that dulls its appearance.

Unlike women, men have coarse, thick hair on their faces, requiring constant facial shaving and increasing their risk of sensitivity, irritation and ingrown hairs.

Men’s pores are larger than women’s, which makes the skin look rough,  increasing the risk of having clogged pores and acne blemish outbreaks.

Men tend to spend more time outside, so they more frequently expose their skin to sun damage and environmental pollutants. Guys typically don’t use sunscreens and UV damage from the sun can add years to a man’s skin.