Men and women age differently at a biological level. These differences show up in skin thickness, oil production, collagen density, fat distribution and facial structure. Understanding the fundamentals helps explain why male ageing tends to follow a different pattern, and why good skincare and treatment planning should be tailored.
On average, male skin is thicker than female skin, particularly through the dermis. Men also tend to have higher baseline collagen density earlier in life. This often provides stronger structural support in younger years, which is why many men appear to show visible ageing later than women.
That said, when age related collagen decline becomes noticeable, the change can feel more abrupt. If the skin has relied on thickness and collagen density for longer, a drop in structural support can stand out when it finally happens.
One of the most overlooked differences is the connective tissue architecture. The skin and subcutaneous fat are supported by fibrous connective tissue bands called septae. In men, these septae are often thicker, denser and more strongly cross linked.
What this means in practice is that male soft tissue is often more tethered and structurally supported. This can contribute to a firmer looking facial structure earlier in life. Over time, as collagen and elastin decline and as these connective tissues stiffen and remodel, the same robust tethering can also influence how ageing shows up. Instead of a gradual softening, some men notice heavier looking changes in the lower face or more pronounced fold formation, depending on their baseline anatomy.
Testosterone increases sebaceous gland activity. As a result, many men have oilier skin and more visible pores. This can be protective against dryness, but it also means men are more prone to congestion, blackheads and persistent adult acne, particularly with stress, gym routines, occlusive products or inconsistent cleansing.
Facial fat is not one uniform layer. It is organised into compartments. Men often retain midface volume longer, and when ageing changes occur, they may present more as:
• Lower face heaviness
• Jowling and jawline blurring
• Changes around the mouth and chin
• Less obvious early hollowing compared with many women
This varies a lot person to person, but the general pattern is common.
Male facial bones are typically broader and more projected, particularly through the brow, jaw and midface. Bone is living tissue and remodels with age. Changes in the underlying framework contribute to shifts in soft tissue support and overall facial shape over time.
Because male skin is thicker, often oilier, and supported by a denser connective tissue network, men frequently do best with strategies that focus on:
• Skin quality and barrier support
• Oil regulation and acne prevention
• Collagen stimulation over time
• Conservative planning that keeps structure looking masculine and natural
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Written by Dr Brandon Kober-Brown MBBS, ProfDipMensHlth, GCCM
Registered Medical Practitioner (General Registration) MED0002581903
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