As the weather cools and the summer glow fades, something else starts to happen to our skin – it gets horny.
Now before you start getting all excited, we’re not talking about that type of horny, we’re taking about something a little different. The outermost layer of the epidermis (the stratum corneum) is also known as the “horny” layer of skin, because its cells are tough like animal horns. During winter, this layer is susceptible to the cold, leading to dry and dull skin.
This change mainly effects men due to the structural differences in their skin. “A man’s skin is about 20% thicker than a woman’s, with larger pores and greater sebum production. The extent of wrinkling also varies between men and women and may be due to differences in hormones, such as testosterone. Interestingly young men have more wrinkles than women, but as people get older, this reverses – possibly mirroring changes in hormone profiles that happen as we age,” explains leading dermatologist Dr Deshan Sebaratnam
To find out more, we spoke to men’s grooming expert Jules Tognini for his guide to horny skin.
“The top layer of skin, known as the stratum corneum, is colloquially known as the horny layer of skin as it looks all rough like horns under a microscope. This layer of skin is susceptible to the cold, which is why your skin can feel dry and flakey during the winter months,” explains Tognini. “I recommend a simple three step guide to keep your skin thriving from the outside in by staying hydrated all winter long.”
Jules Tognini’s Guide to Horny Skin
Step 1: Scrub up nicely
There are few things in this world more satisfying than the feeling of smooth skin. Cleanse first, then scrub away your winter blues and flakey skin. When you scrub up you make it easier for the rest of your skincare to penetrate deeper into the layers of your skin.
When to use: One to two times a week after cleansing.
Try: Bulldog Original Face Scrub
Step 2: Lock and load
Take care of your horny skin by locking moisture in with a moisturiser. Rub your moisturiser gently with your fingers in an upwards direction for the best result. In winter the air is a bit drier, and we’re also exposed to heaters and wind – so you need a bit more moisturiser than in summer. Use enough to cover your face and neck.
When to use: Morning and night after cleansing.
Try: Bulldog Original Moisturiser
Step 3: Softly now
Dry skin is common during winter, but so is dry hair (including your facial hair!). Wrap up your routine with a beard oil which contains aloe vera, camelina oil and green tea to keep your beard feeling soft and moisturised all winter long.
When to use: Morning after cleansing and moisturising.
