Skincare isn't complicated, and it's not just for women. A basic routine takes 2-3 minutes and makes a real difference in how your skin looks and feels. Here's everything you need to know.
Why Men Need Skincare
Men's skin is different from women's:
- 25% thicker on average
- More oil production due to higher testosterone
- Regular shaving causes irritation and damage
- Less likely to use sunscreen leading to more sun damage
These differences mean men benefit from skincare—but the approach can be simpler.
The Essential 3-Step Routine
You don't need 10 products. Start with three:
1. Cleanser
What it does: Removes dirt, oil, and grime without stripping skin.
When: Morning and evening
How to choose:
- Oily skin → Gel or foaming cleanser
- Dry skin → Cream or gentle cleanser
- Normal skin → Any gentle formula
How to use: Wet face, apply cleanser, massage for 30-60 seconds, rinse with lukewarm water.
2. Moisturizer
What it does: Hydrates skin and protects the barrier.
When: Morning and evening, after cleansing
How to choose:
- Oily skin → Lightweight gel or lotion
- Dry skin → Richer cream
- All skin → Look for fragrance-free options
How to use: Apply to slightly damp skin, use enough to cover face and neck.
3. Sunscreen
What it does: Prevents skin cancer, aging, and sun damage.
When: Every morning, even cloudy days
How to choose:
- SPF 30+ broad-spectrum
- Lightweight formula that doesn't feel greasy
- Consider tinted options to avoid white cast
How to use: Apply generously as the last step of your morning routine.
The Complete Basic Routine
Morning (2 minutes)
- Wash face with cleanser
- Apply moisturizer to damp skin
- Apply sunscreen — wait 1-2 minutes before going outside
Evening (2 minutes)
- Wash face with cleanser (removes daily grime and sunscreen)
- Apply moisturizer — can use a slightly richer formula at night
That's it. This covers 90% of what your skin needs.
Addressing Common Men's Skin Concerns
Razor Burn and Irritation
Prevention:
- Shave after showering (hair is softer)
- Use a sharp blade
- Shave with the grain
- Use a proper shaving cream or gel
- Rinse with cool water after
Treatment:
- Aloe vera gel
- Fragrance-free moisturizer
- Avoid alcohol-based aftershaves
Oily Skin and Shine
Approach:
- Use a gel cleanser
- Don't skip moisturizer (dehydration causes more oil)
- Use mattifying moisturizer or sunscreen
- Blotting papers for midday touch-ups
Acne and Breakouts
Add to routine:
- Salicylic acid cleanser (2-3x per week)
- Benzoyl peroxide spot treatment
- Niacinamide serum (reduces oil and inflammation)
Avoid:
- Touching your face
- Dirty pillowcases
- Heavy, pore-clogging products
Dry, Flaky Skin
Approach:
- Use a cream cleanser (not foaming)
- Apply moisturizer to damp skin
- Consider adding hyaluronic acid serum
- Use a humidifier in dry environments
Signs of Aging
Add to routine:
- Retinol (start 2x/week, evening only)
- Vitamin C serum (morning, before sunscreen)
- Eye cream if concerned about that area
Upgrading Your Routine
Once the basics are solid, consider adding:
Exfoliant (2-3x per week)
Removes dead skin, prevents ingrown hairs, improves texture.
- AHA (glycolic acid) for surface exfoliation
- BHA (salicylic acid) for oily/acne-prone skin
Serum (Daily)
Targeted treatment for specific concerns.
- Vitamin C — Brightening, antioxidant protection
- Niacinamide — Oil control, pore minimizing
- Hyaluronic acid — Extra hydration
Eye Cream (Optional)
The eye area is thinner and shows aging first. Consider if you notice:
- Dark circles
- Fine lines
- Puffiness
Skincare and Shaving
Pre-Shave
- Wash face with warm water
- Apply pre-shave oil if you have sensitive skin
- Let shaving cream sit for 1-2 minutes to soften hair
Post-Shave
- Rinse with cool water
- Pat dry (don't rub)
- Apply alcohol-free aftershave or moisturizer
- Wait before applying other products
Electric vs. Manual Razors
- Electric: Less irritation, less close shave
- Manual: Closer shave, more skill required, more potential for irritation
Choose based on your skin sensitivity and preference.
Common Mistakes Men Make
1. Using Bar Soap on Face
Bar soap is too harsh and drying. Use a proper facial cleanser.
2. Skipping Moisturizer
"My skin is oily" isn't an excuse. Moisturizer balances oil production.
3. Never Using Sunscreen
Sun damage is the #1 cause of aging. Daily SPF is non-negotiable.
4. Using Products with Fragrance
Fragrance irritates skin. Choose fragrance-free options.
5. Sharing Products
Your partner's products may not suit your skin. Get your own basics.
6. Expecting Overnight Results
Skincare takes weeks to show results. Be consistent for at least 4-6 weeks.
Building the Habit
The hardest part of skincare is doing it consistently. Tips:
- Keep products visible — On the bathroom counter, not in a drawer
- Attach to existing habits — "After I brush my teeth, I do skincare"
- Start simple — Master 3 products before adding more
- Set reminders — Until it becomes automatic
What to Spend
You don't need expensive products. Effective basics are available at every price point.
Budget allocation:
- Cleanser: Basic is fine
- Moisturizer: Mid-range for good ingredients
- Sunscreen: Worth investing in one you'll actually use
Frequently Asked Questions
What skincare should a man use daily?
Men need three basic products daily: a gentle facial cleanser (not bar soap), a moisturizer (even for oily skin), and sunscreen SPF 30+ (morning). This simple routine takes under 2 minutes and addresses the fundamentals. Add a retinoid at night for anti-aging benefits.
Is men's skincare different from women's?
Men's skin is about 25% thicker with more oil production and larger pores, but the core principles are identical. Men may need: oil-control products, post-shave care, and fragrance-free options to avoid irritation. You can use "women's" products—marketing is the main difference.
What age should men start skincare?
Men should start basic skincare (cleanser, moisturizer, SPF) in their teens or early 20s. Prevention is easier than correction. Add anti-aging products (retinoids, vitamin C) in your mid-20s to early 30s. It's never too late to start, but earlier is better for preventing sun damage.
How do men get clear skin?
Clear skin for men requires: consistent cleansing (twice daily), proper shaving technique, daily moisturizer, SPF protection, and treating specific concerns (acne, ingrown hairs). Avoid bar soap on your face, don't skip moisturizer, and be patient—results take 4-6 weeks.
Should men use moisturizer if they have oily skin?
Yes, absolutely. Skipping moisturizer often increases oil production as skin compensates for dehydration. Use a lightweight, oil-free gel moisturizer. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide that hydrate without adding oil.
What causes razor bumps and how do I prevent them?
Razor bumps (pseudofolliculitis barbae) are caused by hair curling back into skin. Prevent them by: shaving with the grain, using a sharp blade, applying warm water first, using shaving cream, not stretching skin while shaving, and using an alcohol-free aftershave with soothing ingredients.
Track Your Routine
Building a skincare habit takes consistency. Tracking helps you:
- Remember your routine
- Stay accountable
- See progress over time
- Know what's working
Glimmer makes it easy to build and maintain your skincare routine with simple reminders and tracking.
Sources
- Rahrovan, S., et al. (2018). "Male versus female skin: What dermatologists and cosmeticians should know." International Journal of Women's Dermatology, 4(3), 122-130.
- Draelos, Z. D. (2018). "The science behind skin care: Cleansers." Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 17(1), 8-14.
- Ganceviciene, R., et al. (2012). "Skin anti-aging strategies." Dermato-Endocrinology, 4(3), 308-319.