Tips for Men’s Skincare: Simple Routines That Work

vivek chaudhary

Most guys think skincare is just soap and water, maybe some aftershave if they’re feeling fancy. But here’s the reality – men’s skin actually goes through more daily abuse than women’s skin does. 

Between shaving every day or two, working outdoors, sweating more, and generally being rougher with our faces, we need more than just whatever’s in the shower.

The thing is, you don’t need a 12-step routine or expensive creams that cost more than your monthly gym membership. 

Good skincare for men is actually pretty straightforward once you understand what you’re dealing with.

Why Men Need Different Skincare Than Women

Men’s skin is about 25% thicker than women’s skin. We produce more oil, we have larger pores, and our skin tends to be more resilient but also more prone to irritation from daily shaving. 

Plus, most of us are way less gentle when we wash our faces – we scrub like we’re cleaning a dirty plate.

Women’s skincare products often focus on anti-aging and hydration because their skin tends to dry out faster. 

Men’s products need to handle excess oil, razor damage, and the fact that we’re probably going to use them quickly in the shower without much thought.

The pH levels are different too. Men’s skin is typically more acidic, which means some products that work great for women can actually cause irritation or breakouts for us.

The Basic 3-Step Routine Every Guy Should Know

Keep it simple. You need three things: cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen. That’s it.

Morning routine:

  • Wash your face with a gentle cleanser (not body soap)
  • Apply moisturizer while your skin is still slightly damp
  • Use sunscreen if you’re going outside

Evening routine:

  • Wash your face again
  • Apply moisturizer

The whole thing should take maybe two minutes. If you’re spending longer than that, you’re probably overthinking it.

Don’t use bar soap on your face. I know it’s convenient, but bar soap is too harsh and will dry out your skin. This makes your skin produce more oil to compensate, which leads to more breakouts.

Dealing with Razor Burn and Ingrown Hairs

This is where most guys struggle. Razor burn happens when you shave too aggressively or use a dull blade. Ingrown hairs happen when hair grows back into the skin instead of out of it.

For razor burn:

  • Use a sharp blade (replace cartridges every 5-7 shaves)
  • Shave with the grain, not against it
  • Use shaving cream or gel, not just water
  • Don’t press too hard

For ingrown hairs:

  • Exfoliate 2-3 times per week with a gentle scrub
  • Don’t pick at them (I know, easier said than done)
  • Use a warm compress to help them come to the surface
  • Consider seeing a professional if they’re really bad

Some guys benefit from switching to an electric razor or even growing a beard if razor problems are constant.

Products That Actually Work for Men’s Skin

You don’t need to spend a fortune, but don’t buy the cheapest stuff either. Look for products that are fragrance-free or have minimal fragrance – your face doesn’t need to smell like a pine forest.

Good cleansers to try:

  • Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser
  • Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Daily Cleanser
  • Any drugstore brand labeled “gentle” or “sensitive skin”

Moisturizers that work:

  • CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion
  • Neutrogena Oil-Free Moisture Gel
  • Bulldog Original Moisturizer

For sunscreen, get something that’s at least SPF 30 and says “broad spectrum” on the label. Many moisturizers now come with SPF built in, which makes the morning routine even easier.

If you have specific skin issues that aren’t improving, talking to a Maple Grove dermatology specialist can help you figure out what’s actually going on with your skin.

Quick Fixes for Common Men’s Skin Problems

Oily skin: Don’t overwash. Washing more than twice a day actually makes oiliness worse. Use oil-free products and maybe try a toner with salicylic acid.

Dry skin: Look for moisturizers with hyaluronic acid or ceramides. Apply moisturizer right after washing while your skin is still damp.

Acne: Keep it simple. A cleanser with salicylic acid and an oil-free moisturizer. Don’t pick at breakouts, even though I know you want to.

Dark circles: Usually genetics or lack of sleep. Eye cream might help a little, but honestly, getting better sleep and drinking more water will do more than any product.

The bottom line is that good skincare doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Start with the basics, be consistent for a few weeks, and adjust from there based on how your skin responds.

Leave a Reply