As the weather cools and the summer glow fades, something else starts to happen to our skin – it gets horny. Get your head out of the gutter, not that kind of horny!

The top layer of skin, known as the stratum corneum, is colloquially known as the horny layer of skin as it looks 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.

Dr Deshan Sebaratnam, leading dermatologist and senior lecturer at the University of New South Wales,  has some advice for men thinking about their winter skin routine.   

“The stratum corneum layer – or the horny skin layer – acts as an important barrier to the outside world. In winter, the skin often dries out more easily, so we should be more diligent with our application of moisturiser.

“My top horny skin tip is to keep it simple and be consistent. Use a moisturiser that you like, because that is the one that you’ll be consistent with! Stay away from unnecessary fragrances, and natural ingredients are a nice bonus.”  

Men’s grooming expert and Bulldog Skincare Ambassador, Jules Tognini, has shared his top tips  to help men care for their horny skin during the cooler months.

“I recommend a three step routine to keep your skin healthy and hydrated this winter.”

“As well as exfoliating, and keeping facial hair hydrated with beard oil, moisturiser is the most important product to keep water in the lower layers of your skin. I love the Bulldog Original Moisturiser, specially formulated to hydrate skin without leaving a greasy residue.” 

“Men’s skincare is on the rise and guys are starting to give more thought about what they look like. Skin and face care is so important, and society is making it more comfortable for younger blokes to put more time and effort into looking good.” 

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 with the Bulldog Original Face Scrub.

When you scrub up you make it easier for the rest of your skincare to penetrate deeper into the layers of your skin. Use one to two times a week after cleansing. 

Step 2: Lock and load

Take care of your horny skin by locking moisture in with the Bulldog Original 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. 

Use in the morning and night after cleansing.

Step 3: Softly now

Dry skin is common during winter, but so is dry hair (including your facial hair!). Wrap up your routine with Bulldog Original Beard Oil which contains aloe vera, camelina oil and green tea to keep your beard feeling soft and moisturised all winter long.

Use in the morning after cleansing and moisturising.  

Tognini also says, “Men’s skincare brands like Bulldog Skincare for Men, that are approachable, accessible and built for blokes are growing.”

“The products smell good without being overpowering, and they use natural ingredients that are soothing and don’t dry out the skin. Bulldog is skincare for every football player, truck driver and hair dresser. Anyone can pick up these products and feel good about themselves.”