Spots in men: causes and what you can do about them

Short answer: men tend to get spots because they produce more androgens, such as testosterone. These hormones prompt your oil glands to produce more oil, making pores more likely to clog. Shaving, sweating during exercise and little or no skincare can add to the problem. A simple three-step routine, keeping your hands off your face and getting the right nutrients every day can make a real difference.

Spots are often seen as a teenage problem, or something women deal with. But plenty of men still get them well into adulthood. Along the jaw, on the neck or back, or right where they shave. And because men tend to talk about it less, many aren't sure what to do. Here, we'll explain how men's skin differs, what can affect it and which simple habits can help you keep it clearer.

Why men's skin is different

Men's and women's skin is similar, but there are a few differences. The main one is hormones. Men produce much more of a group of hormones called androgens, which prompt your oil glands to make oil. Testosterone is the best-known example.

That oil helps keep your skin supple and protected. But when your oil glands produce a lot of it, pores can clog more easily. A clogged pore is where a spot begins. That's why many men have skin that gets shiny more quickly, larger pores and more blackheads, especially on the nose, forehead and chin.

Another difference: men's skin is a little thicker on average. That makes it more resilient, but it can also mean spots sit deeper in the skin.

Want to know exactly how a spot forms? Read Spots and your skin from within.

From puberty into adulthood

During puberty, your body starts producing far more androgens. According to Thuisarts, almost everyone gets spots at that age, and they're often more severe for boys than girls. That's because their oil glands are more active.

For many men, their skin gets clearer around their twenties. But not for everyone. Plenty still get spots after that, or find they suddenly return during a busy period. It's very common, and you're definitely not alone.

Shaving: friend and foe to your skin

For many men, shaving is a daily habit, and it does more to your skin than you might think. A razor removes not just hair but also a thin layer of skin cells. That's usually fine, but a blunt blade, dry shaving or going over the same area too often can leave your skin red and sensitive.

Razor bumps are a common problem. They happen when a shaved hair grows back into the skin. They look like small red bumps, similar to spots, especially on your neck and along your jaw. They're particularly common if you have curly hair.

Here's how to make shaving gentler on your skin:

• Shave after a shower. Warm water softens your beard hair.
• Use a sharp blade. A blunt one pulls at hairs and irritates your skin.
• Shave in the direction of hair growth. Shaving against the grain gives a closer shave, but can also cause more razor bumps.
• Use a gentle shaving gel. Choose one without alcohol or strong fragrance.
• Don't shave over an inflamed spot. Leave it alone, or use an electric trimmer for a few days.

What if you have a beard?

A beard might seem like the answer: no shaving, no razor bumps. For many men, it is. But there's still skin under your beard, and its oil glands are still working. Oil, dead skin cells and food can easily get caught in the hair.

• Wash your beard and the skin underneath with a gentle cleanser, not just water.
• Go easy on beard oil. Heavy oils can put extra strain on your pores. A few drops are enough.
• Don't scratch. If your beard itches, especially in the first few weeks, use a light moisturiser instead of your nails.

Exercise, sweat and your skin

Exercise is good for your whole body. But sweat, friction and warm skin together are a common cause of spots. Think of spots on your forehead under a cap or helmet, on your back where a backpack or tight top rubs, or on your shoulders.

A few simple habits can help:

• Shower soon after exercising. Don't leave sweat on your skin for hours.
• Put on clean workout clothes. Every time, even if that top seems 'fine for one more wear'.
• Wash your cap and helmet lining regularly. Sweat and oil build up there.
• Wipe your face with a clean towel rather than your hand or top.

Do you drink protein shakes? Some people who exercise notice more breakouts when they have a lot of whey-based shakes. Research on this is still limited, and it doesn't happen to everyone. If you notice it yourself, you could try a plant-based option for a few weeks and see whether it makes a difference.

The three-step routine

Lots of men skip skincare altogether, or use their shower gel on their face. Others suddenly try five products at once. Neither approach works particularly well. A simple routine is enough:

Why use moisturiser if your skin is already oily? Because skin that dries out can sometimes produce even more oil. A light, non-greasy moisturiser helps keep your skin balanced. And sunscreen protects your skin from UV light, so marks left by spots are less likely to darken.

Keep your hands off your face

It sounds simple, but it's one of the most important tips. Lots of men squeeze spots, sometimes even with their nails. It might feel like you're getting rid of the problem, but it usually makes the spot bigger and redder. You push what's inside deeper into your skin, and you could be left with a dark mark or small scar that lasts longer than the spot itself.

You probably touch your face without realising it, too: resting your chin on your hand in a meeting or holding your phone against your cheek. Try to notice when you do it. And give your phone screen a clean now and then.

Stress, sleep and your skin

A busy job, too little sleep or a difficult period can often show up on your skin. When you're stressed, your body produces more cortisol, the best-known stress hormone. That can stimulate your oil glands too. You may also sleep less well and touch your face more often.

You don't need to overhaul your life. But a few weeks of better sleep can often do more for your skin than a new product.

From within: what your skin needs every day

Skincare works on the outside. But your skin makes new cells every day, and it gets the nutrients it needs to do that from the food you eat, via your blood. A few of those nutrients are especially relevant for men.

Zinc is one example. Zinc contributes to the maintenance of normal testosterone levels in the blood. Zinc also contributes to the maintenance of normal skin. You'll find it in meat, fish, cheese, nuts and wholemeal bread. Your body doesn't store large amounts of it, so you need it every day. And if you exercise and sweat a lot, you lose a little zinc through sweat too.

Your body uses vitamin B5 to make and process hormones. Vitamin A matters for your skin too. If you eat a varied diet, you'll get some of all these nutrients. But honestly, how many of us eat a varied diet every day when we're busy and grabbing a quick lunch?

Where Clear+ fits in

Lots of men don't want a complicated routine. We get it. That's why we made Clear+ as simple as possible: two capsules a day with breakfast, and you're done. It contains ten ingredients, with zinc, vitamin A and vitamin B5 at its core. Clear+ is vegan, and every batch is made in the Netherlands and independently tested by Eurofins. Don't take another supplement containing zinc alongside it, such as a multivitamin or ZMA.

Pair it with your three-step routine and you've covered your skin from the outside and within, in just a few minutes a day. Give it time, though: your skin renews itself over weeks, so assess how it's going after around 90 days. Find out why it takes that long in How long does it take to see a difference in your skin? And if it works for you, keep taking it: your skin needs those nutrients every day, just as you brush your teeth every day.

Want to know exactly what's in Clear+, and why we've chosen those amounts? Read What's in Clear+, and why these amounts?

I've tried pretty much every cream and serum on earth … Saw this and thought I'd just give it a try. I'm in my second month now and I'm finally seeing a difference!! Really happy with it.

Hans

When to see your GP

The odd spot is completely normal. But see your GP if:

• you have a lot of painful, deep or large spots, including on your back or chest;
• you're left with scars or lasting dark marks;
• you keep getting a lot of razor bumps;
• it's having a big impact on your daily life or confidence.

A GP or dermatologist can help work out what's going on and what's right for you.

Frequently asked questions

Why do men tend to have oilier skin?

Men produce more androgens, such as testosterone. These hormones prompt the oil glands to produce more oil. That's why men's skin often gets shiny more quickly and their pores tend to be larger.

Can shaving cause spots?

Shaving can irritate your skin, and hairs growing back into the skin cause razor bumps. These can look like spots. Shave after a shower, with a sharp blade, in the direction of hair growth and using a gentle shaving gel.

Why do I get spots on my back?

Your back has lots of oil glands. Sweat, a tight top or a backpack can create friction and warmth. Shower soon after exercise, wear clean clothes and wash your back with a gentle cleanser.

Can protein shakes cause spots?

Some people who exercise notice more breakouts when they drink whey-based shakes. Research is still limited, and it doesn't happen to everyone. If you notice it yourself, try a plant-based option for a few weeks.

Do I need an elaborate skincare routine as a man?

No. A gentle cleanser, a light moisturiser and sunscreen are enough. Keep it simple and you're more likely to stick with it.

Is Clear+ for men too?

Yes. Clear+ is made for women and men. Take two capsules every day with a meal.

What if I'm not happy with it?

You'll get your money back. For your first order, take Clear+ every day for 90 days, then let us know within 10 days. Return all the pouches and we'll refund the amount you paid, minus the cost of the return label. You can find all the terms in our refund policy.

This article is for general information and isn't medical advice. If your skin is causing you a lot of problems, see your GP. Clear+ is a food supplement. A food supplement is not a substitute for a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.