When you look at skin care products, women have much more choice than men do but this doesn’t mean that men don’t have skin concerns. Read on to learn about the two most common skin problems for men and their solutions.
Dry Skin
Dry skin can occur anytime of the year, but can be more pronounced in winter months. Heat can also make it hard for your skin to retain moisture as can being over the age of 40.
Symptoms of dry skin include:
- Skin that feels and looks rough
- Itchiness
- Flaky or ashy looking skin
- Scaling or peeling
- Deep cracks that may bleed
If your hands have been drier than normal, you’re not alone. The increased usage of hand sanitiser is great at keeping you germ-free, but can leave your hands feeling rough. Dry skin can often be treated at home with lotions, creams, or petroleum jelly. To prevent dry skin, avoid harsh soaps or products that strip moisture from your skin and never shower or bathe in very hot water.
Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection caused by fungi called dermatophytes and thrive in warm and damp environments. If you get the fungi on your skin, wearing socks and shoes can create a warm, sweaty environment for the fungus to thrive.
Symptoms of Athlete’s Foot:
- Itchiness
- Cracked skin
- Scaly soles
- Blisters
- Peeling skin, especially between the toes
Athlete’s foot can be treated with over the counter ointments, creams, and powders but if it keeps reoccurring, speak to your GP. Prevent athlete’s foot by wearing sandals in communal showers or pool decks and wash your feet every day, paying special attention to the space between your toes. Also, switch up your shoes to give them a break between wears. Letting your shoes air out for at least 24 hours will keep them dry.
Skin Allergies
If your skin is persistently itchy and red, or has scabs that leak fluid, you may have a skin allergy like hives or contact dermatitis. You can develop an allergy at any point in your life so if you suspect you have an allergy you should get allergy testing.
Touchwood Pharmacy offers thorough allergy testing that you can conveniently book online. Whatever your concern is, our experienced staff can provide advice, support, and point you in the right direction.
