Walk into any skincare aisle and you’ll notice a clear divide: men’s products in black, grey, or navy with bold fonts—and women’s products in pastel bottles, often smelling like roses or mangoes. But when it comes to what’s inside, is there really a difference? Or is it just marketing fluff? The fact is that skincare isn't gendered, skin types are. Skincare doesn't respond to gender but to factors like oil production, hydration levels, sensitivity, sun exposure, and hormonal changes. So, if you see your partner using a hydrating serum, be aware that it will work for you too if you have dry skin. 

How Is Men’s Skin Different?

On average, men’s skin tends to be 25 per cent thicker than women's skin; it produces more oil (sebum); it has larger pores and is more prone to ingrown hair due to frequent shaving. However, these differences don’t require a completely separate product line, just tailored ingredients. And plenty of women’s skincare already ticks those boxes, sometimes even better than men’s options. Here's what you can buy from a woman's aisle or borrow from your partner

Hydrating Serums

Most women’s serums are lightweight, fast-absorbing, and packed with hyaluronic acid—perfect for men who want hydration without feeling greasy.

Brightening Creams and Serums

Vitamin C-based brightening creams, especially for reducing pigmentation or post-acne marks. If you think it's too much of a thought to buy one for yourself or decide which one is for you, a vitamin C serum at your partner's shelf is the safest option.

SPF Lotions

Many men still skip sunscreen and with multiple options available, it's tough to make a decision. The best solution is to rely on your lady love's choice of product and trust that it's the high SPF value, non-greasy, and no white cast.

Under-Eye Creams

Most men don’t realise how powerful under-eye formulas are for dark circles and puffiness, especially those with caffeine or peptides. So, if you don't have one for yourself, make sure to include your partner's cream in your routine.

Face Mists

No, face misting it’s not a girl’s thing, in fact, there’s no such thing. Taking note of the heat outside, we’d recommend keeping a mini size handy in your bag, especially if you are out in the field or travelling. One quick spritz is all you need to get your skin back to life.

Hand Creams

You might not be fond of those sweet smelling creams but hand care is important so make sure you apply it twice a day. And the best way to do it is by stealing on that your partner is using.
 

When Men Should Tread Carefully

Fragrance Overload

Some women’s products have strong floral or fruity scents that might not vibe with your personal style—or irritate sensitive skin.

Too Rich or Oily

Products meant for dry or mature skin (especially night creams) can be too heavy for oilier male skin.

Shaving Needs Ignored

Most women’s lines don’t factor in post-shave skin concerns like razor burns or ingrown hairs. That’s where male-centric products still shine.

So, Should You Use Women’s Skincare? The answer is yes and you must give it a shot if you are not too sure on how to build a routine for yourself or buy products for your vanity. The fact is that skincare is about function and has nothing to do with gender so there's no harm borrowing it from your lady or even from a woman's aisle if something interests you more than your category.

Start with These Crossover Heroes

• Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel

• The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

• Cetaphil Gentle Cleanser

• Innisfree Green Tea Seed Serum

• Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask