THE AGES OF MAN
Do men age like a fine whisky—or more like an avocado left to rot on the kitchen counter? Did the years creep up slowly, or did they hit with a sudden “oh sh*t” moment?
Today, inspired by author Tanith Carey (and let’s be real—genetics and lifestyle have their say here), we’re taking a look at the “aging like fine oak-barrelled wine” markers we men go through—and how they hit our mood, hair, and face.
UP TO YOUR 20s: HORMONAL HURRICANE
First “solo discovery” at 12–14, cue the rollercoaster: voice cracking, growth spurts, and that barely-there ‘tash (hello, Gollum). It’s the era of leaving the nest and finding “the crew.”
What better way to dive into your first round of social awkwardness (the irony is real) than with body image issues, skin shiny enough to fry chips, and zits erupting like Mount Vesuvius? Acne rules, and the whole “it’ll pass” line is no help when you’re just trying to make friends and maybe more.
As for skin? This is the peak. Your face is firm, plump, and resilient like a new football—and hangovers and muscle aches vanish by sunrise.
UP TO YOUR 30s: LIFE CLIMB, HORMONE DIVE
Once you hit your 20s, sperm quality slows down, and collagen takes a 1% annual dip (sounds like nothing, but it adds up). Work stress, “serious” relationships—genes aren’t exactly loving it.
But we hardly notice. While women are spotting first fine lines, we’re blissfully oblivious. Skincare? What’s that? Without Insta, most of us would ditch the gym, too. Our metabolism’s still in gear, and last weekend’s pizza feast miraculously vanishes by Monday.
30s–40s: THE GOLDEN AGE AND FIRST REALITY SLAP
Statistically, we’re at our happiest around 35–37. Career’s looking good, you’re surrounded by “your people,” and investments in life are paying off.
Then bam—the first “signs” come in hard. Joints start creaking, lines creep into the mirror, and hair loss? Yeah, that too. It’s gym time, clean eating, and yes…skincare. Time to pick your camp: cycling, CrossFit, or running. What’s your squad?
40s To 50s: IS THIS REALLY IT?
Once the “family and career” boxes are ticked, it’s time for the big question: is this all there is? This is when we’re statistically more likely to “stray”—both from partners and ourselves. Enter the “midlife crisis”: a Turkey trip, a few aesthetic “adjustments,” and a half-hearted attempt to rewind the clock.
Wrinkles are now deeply set, skin tone dips, and features shift slightly (some of us start looking more “rugged”—can’t complain). Once past this mental mountain, though, it’s a smooth glide to zen.
50s AND BEYOND: SECOND YOUTH
Embrace life and leisure with that wise-but-wild vibe. Despite the aches and self-care marathons, men in their 50s say they feel more grateful, present, and upbeat. We appreciate what we’ve achieved and experience a second “awakening”—socially, sexually, and relationally—but this time, it’s all about personal joy, not anyone else’s. For as long as the body keeps up.
IN CONCLUSION:
P.S.: Today’s post is brought to you by Wowyoung serum—the all-ages hero. In your 20s, it tackles zits. In your 30s, it boosts cell turnover so you don’t end up looking like a shedding lizard, in your 40s it smooths out those lines, and by your 50s… keeps you looking like the young legend you are.