When it comes to self-care, men today have a wide variety of options to groom and care for their skin. However, research indicates that they may not be fully embracing these opportunities. For instance, a 2024 YouGov poll of 1,148 American adults revealed that 58% of men skip daily moisturizing, and many prefer to keep their skincare routines minimal. But there’s one area of self-care where men seem to be lagging significantly: facials. Dermatologists and aestheticians are urging men to recognize the benefits of facials, which are not just for women. In fact, they’re an essential part of maintaining healthy, clear skin for everyone.
Facials are a safe and effective treatment that should be a regular part of any skincare routine. While there’s no strict rule about how often to get one, many experts suggest scheduling a facial every four to six weeks. This aligns with the skin’s natural regeneration cycle, during which old skin cells shed and new ones are produced. For men, facials can be particularly beneficial. “Men benefit from facials just as much as women do,” says Dr. Kate Dee, a Yale-trained aesthetician and founder of Glow Medispa in Seattle. However, men have historically been less interested in skincare compared to women. This is changing, but there’s still a long way to go.
One of the key reasons men should consider facials is the unique characteristics of their skin. Due to higher levels of testosterone, men typically have thicker skin with more oil glands. While this can make their skin more resilient, it also leads to common issues like oily skin, clogged pores, and acne. Regular facials can help address these problems by deep-cleaning the skin, reducing dead skin buildup, and minimizing the appearance of enlarged pores. For men who shave regularly, facials can also help with post-shave irritation, such as bumps, redness, and inflammation. Dr. Hamdan Abdullah Hamed, a dermatologist, explains, “Facials can improve the health of your skin and ease that irritation.”
Beyond the physical benefits, facials can also have a positive impact on mental health. In today’s fast-paced world, taking time for self-care is more important than ever. Meka Mathis, a master aesthetician and owner of Skin Beauty Bar, notes that facials provide a much-needed hour of self-care. “This can help increase momentum and self-worth,” she says. The soothing, calming nature of facials is similar to massages, according to Dr. Dee, who adds that they can improve your mood and outlook. The science backs this up: when you’re relaxed, your body produces less cortisol, the stress hormone, which benefits your overall health—not just your skin.
For men who might feel hesitant to try a facial, dermatologists and aestheticians want to reassure them that skincare is not tied to gender. “Taking care of your skin does not make you less manly; it makes you clever,” says Dr. Hamed. Healthy skin looks better, feels better, and can prevent more serious issues down the line. Dr. Anthony Rossi, a dermatologist, emphasizes that skincare and facial care should not be seen as masculine or feminine. “These procedures and self-care are great for all people if they want it,” he says. “Those old stereotypes are tired. You only have one face, so you should take care of it, along with your body and mind.”
If you’re interested in trying a facial but aren’t sure where to start, there are a few steps you can take to find a spa where you’ll feel comfortable. Mathis recommends doing some research online to find a licensed aesthetician with experience in facial care. Once you’ve found a potential spot, don’t hesitate to ask questions. Dr. Hamed suggests inquiring about the types of facials they offer, such as deep-cleaning facials for oily skin or hydrating facials for post-shave care, and whether they carry products specifically formulated for men. “The more you know, the more comfortable you’ll feel,” he says. Many spas, including Mathis’s own, now offer facials tailored to men’s needs, and they are eager to welcome men into their spaces. As Dr. Rossi puts it, “You don’t necessarily need a men’s-only spa, as many spas and facialists can treat all people.” So why not give it a try? Your skin—and your mind—will thank you.
