Much like finding the perfectly fitted suit jacket or the ideal trouser break, there’s no catch-all solution for making the most of our skin. Although skin is fundamentally the same whatever its colour, there are a few differences that determine how best to look after it. Pale skin, for example, is particularly susceptible to sun damage and dryness, whereas black skin is especially prone to ingrown hairs. So, here are some essential tips on how to look after your skin, whatever its colour.

Red Hair? Pale Complexion?

Dryness and sensitivity tend to be the biggest skincare issues experienced by men with a fairer complexion, which leaves them vulnerable to premature ageing, redness, freckles and sun damage. The solution? Make ‘protect and survive’ your skincare mantra.

Factor Up

According to Cancer Research UK, if you’re a redhead, your risk of developing malignant melanoma – the deadliest form of skin cancer – is triple that of people with dark eyes and hair, making sun protection essential. Opt for sun products with a minimum broad spectrum SPF of 30 and if you find that your skin is sensitive as well, then try a product like Dermalogica’s Super Sensitive Shield, which is formulated for the easily irritated (skin-wise, at least). It’s also wise to protect your skin on a daily basis, so use a moisturiser like Malin + Goetz’s SPF 30 Face Moisturiser religiously, even in winter. (Related: How To Decide Which SPF Sunscreen Is Best For You)

Make Friends With Your Freckles

A characteristic feature of most redheads’ complexions, freckles are the result of the erratic production of the pigment melanin in the skin. You can try fading more prominent ones with products like Clinique For Men’s Clinical Dark Spot Corrector and Skin Doctors SD White and Bright, but in reality, getting rid of freckles is a bit like chasing rainbows – exhausting and ultimately a bit pointless. It’s much better to accept and embrace them.