Though thicker than women's, men's skin is as sensitive to harm from environmental aggressors. Male hormones lead to the production of more sebum and so male skin tends to be shiny. However, while it may be oily on the surface, at a deeper level, it's prone to dehydration.
Japanese cosmetics brand THREE recently launched its For Men Gentling collection to meet the specific needs of male skin. Imbalances are addressed via a holistic approach, which connects the mind, body and skin through the therapeutic use of essential oils.
THREE's women's and men's formulas feature a different blend of essential oils as well as plant oils and extracts.
For Men Gentling's aromatic mix is based on niaouli obtained from the leaves of a plant native to Australia and Pacific Islands. It is blended with orange peel, lavender and rosemary essential oils for a clean and cool aroma that relieves tension and takes one's mind off the strains of daily life.
Sake lees extract is another key ingredient that helps counterbalance the oiliness while hydrating and strengthening the skin.
Cleansing with foam is an important first step in the grooming routine, helping to remove excessive sebum that can lead to problems such as stickiness and piling of old keratins and dirt.
The facial cleanser also contains fossilised coral powder and Iouseki volcanic stone to provide a gentle exfoliating effect.
The refreshing toner then rehydrates the skin while the emulsion forms a barrier to help prevent moisture loss as well as maintain oil and water balance.
The shampoo is formulated based on how the scalp shares the same dermal characteristics as the skin. The blend of essential oils makes hair smell good while sake lees, long pepper and tea leaf extracts help promote healthy scalp and hair.
The Japanese brand, as far as possible, uses natural ingredients in formulating its products. Three items from the new collection contain more than 95% naturally-derived ingredients, with the lip balm a purely natural product.
