Let's face it: finding gift ideas for men can be tough. Valentine's Day, you're thinking chocolates or his favorite beverage. His birthday, a cake of course, and – a tie? Gets old, seems kinda lame. A movie, a concert? Nice, but… Why not really surprise him? You take good care of your skin. Why not help your favorite guy do the same with a gift of men's skin care products, or maybe even a cosmetic dermatology treatment?

Men are catching on to the idea that it's a part of good grooming to take care of their skin. Maybe you've seen a bottle or tube of "product" lurking around the bathroom! But, you should know that men's skin is different from women's, and that means extra attention when choosing men's skin care products.

On average, a man's skin is about 25% thicker than a women's, and twice as oily. His skin oil is denser and more complex, due to the presence of testosterone. This means cleansing is key – and proper cleansing agents are really important to remove impurities. Here's the paradox. Even though it's thicker, male skin tends to be more sensitive, because it generally undergoes a daily exfoliation process: shaving. Shaving reduces the skin's natural layer of protection, increasing its fragility and producing dryness. Harsh bar soaps and alcohol-based colognes and aftershaves are just too drying.

Here's where contacting a cosmetic dermatologist really makes sense. Choosing medical grade skin care products does more than just ensure efficacy. The delivery system of these products allows for deeper penetration of the active ingredients into damaged skin. Ask for cleansers and moisturizers designed for male skin, including those with vitamin C and other nutrients.

Dry skin from shaving can be further impacted by bathing. As many women know well, the daily run or workouts at the gym can lead to frequent showering, sometimes more than once a day. This can leave skin dried out! So, give your guy some advice along with your gift – warm (not hot) showers; no harsh soaps, just wash where you really need it, then pat dry. And then, he'll be ready to moisturize with the skin care product you've selected.

Men with outdoor jobs or active lifestyles often suffer from the environmental damage of sun and wind exposure. This brings on premature aging of the skin, with an increased statistical risk of skin cancer. The most common areas for men to develop skin cancer are on the back, shoulders, scalp, neck, ears and face – all maximal sun exposure areas. It's a fact that, on average, men do not notice suspicious skin growths as early as women, nor do they seek treatment as quickly.

And, as I'm the first to admit, the male psyche sometimes prefers not to concern itself with risks like ultraviolet radiation – so men may be less likely to guard their skin with sunscreen, protective clothing, and hats. If this sounds like your sweetie, then a high-quality moisturizing sunscreen, some gentle (loving) nagging and a really cool hat could make the perfect birthday or Father's Day gift!

If you want to pull out all the stops, give your man a skin care treatment. Your choices range on up to microdermabrasion or laser treatments. But, to start simply, a facial massage and treatment makes a great gift. Look for a cosmetic dermatologist who uses essential oils with fruit, plant and marine extracts. Performed correctly, a facial increases the flow of blood and lymph to purify and energize the skin cells. He'll feel pampered, relaxed and refreshed – what a stress-reliever!

So if you're stuck with that same old "What to give that guy" theme – well, men's skin care products are a unique way to say "I care."

James C. Fairfield, MD has established the oldest and most respected dermatology practice in the Delaware Valley. For more free cosmetic dermatology information and resources and to sign up for his free report, Erase the Years; visit his web site at www.cmderm.com. 

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