Men are hitting gym, but still ignoring skincare; Expert explains why it matters

For several men, skincare is still seen as complicated, unnecessary or linked only to beauty. Experts say these outdated beliefs are preventing men from adopting basic habits that can protect their skin in the long run.

New Delhi: Men today are more focused on health and fitness than ever before. From regular gym sessions and better diets to preventive health check-ups, self-care has become an important part of modern lifestyles. Yet, one area continues to be ignored by many: skincare.

For several men, skincare is still seen as complicated, unnecessary or linked only to beauty. Experts say these outdated beliefs are preventing men from adopting basic habits that can protect their skin in the long run.

Why Skin Health Needs Attention

Modern lifestyles place the skin under constant stress. Pollution, long commutes, irregular sleep, sun exposure and work pressure can all affect skin health. Men also face specific concerns such as excess oil production, acne, pigmentation and shaving-related irritation.

According to Shaily Mehrotra, skincare expert and Co-Founder of Fixderma and FCL, these issues are often ignored until they become visible or uncomfortable.

“Men, in particular, also deal with concerns such as excess oil production, shaving-related irritation, acne and pigmentation,” she explains.

Frequent shaving can also affect the skin barrier. While shaving removes dead skin cells, it may also leave the skin more prone to dryness, irritation and sensitivity if hydration is not maintained properly.

Skincare Does Not Have To Be Complicated

One of the biggest reasons men hesitate to start skincare is the belief that it requires too many products and too much time. Social media has made skincare more popular, but it has also created the impression that healthy skin needs a long and expensive routine.

Experts say that is not the case.

“Healthy skin is built through consistency, not complexity,” says Mehrotra.

For most men, a basic routine is enough. Cleansing, hydration and daily sun protection can support long-term skin health when followed regularly.

Skincare Is Not Vanity

Another major misconception is that skincare is only about looking good. Experts argue that it should be seen as part of overall health, just like exercise and nutrition.

“We exercise to support our bodies and make healthier food choices to improve our long-term wellbeing. Caring for our skin deserves to be viewed through the same lens,” Mehrotra says.

Sunscreen is one of the simplest examples. Many people apply it only during vacations or outdoor activities, while daily exposure during commuting, driving or routine outdoor work is often ignored.

Changing Attitudes Towards Men’s Skincare

The perception around men’s skincare is slowly changing. More men are beginning to see it as self-care rather than a beauty ritual. Experts believe the focus should now be on making skincare easier to understand, not on pushing more products.

“The opportunity now is not to make skincare more aspirational but to make it more approachable. People do not need more products; they need more confidence to begin,” says Mehrotra.

The real barrier has never been lack of interest. It has been the belief that skincare is not meant for men. As awareness grows, simple and practical routines may help more men treat skin health as an essential part of overall wellbeing.