A men's skincare routine can be short and still do everything skin needs. Men's facial skin is, on average, a little thicker and oilier than women's, and daily shaving adds its own challenges. The basic steps are the same for everyone: cleanse, moisturize and protect.
The daily routine
Morning
- Wash your face with a mild cleanser and lukewarm water. Ordinary bar soap can be drying.
- Shave if you shave, following the tips below.
- Moisturize while your skin is still slightly damp.
- Apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to your face, ears and neck.
Evening
- Wash your face to remove sweat, oil and sunscreen.
- Moisturize.
Also wash after exercise. Sweat left on the skin can clog pores.
Know your skin type first
Product choice depends on your skin, not on the word "men" on the label. A product marketed to women may suit you just as well.
| If your skin is | Look for |
|---|---|
| Oily or acne-prone | Gel cleanser, oil-free moisturizer, "non-comedogenic" on the label |
| Dry | Cream cleanser, richer moisturizer |
| Sensitive | Fragrance-free products, including aftershave |
How to Find Your Skin Type explains how to check your skin type at home.
Shaving with less irritation
- Wet your skin and hair first. Shaving after a shower is ideal because the hair is softer.
- Apply a shaving cream or gel and leave it for a minute.
- Shave in the direction the hair grows.
- Rinse the blade after every stroke.
- Change the blade or cartridge after about five to seven shaves.
- Store the razor somewhere dry.
If you often get razor bumps or ingrown hairs, try shaving less closely, use a single-blade or electric razor, and do not stretch the skin. People with tightly curled hair are more likely to get these bumps. Razor Burn vs Ingrown Hairs: Signs and Care explains how to tell razor burn from ingrown hairs.
Beard care
- Wash the beard and the skin under it when you wash your face.
- Massage moisturizer through to the skin, which can become dry and flaky under facial hair.
- Trim with clean tools. Facial Trimmer Buying Guide: Features and Cleaning covers trimmer features and cleaning.
Do not skip sunscreen
Sunscreen is the step men most often leave out. The scalp, ears and back of the neck receive a lot of sun, especially with short hair or a thinning hairline. A hat helps where sunscreen is hard to apply. Sunscreen Guide: What SPF, UVA, and UVB Mean explains SPF and broad-spectrum labels.
Check your skin regularly
Look over your skin every few months, including your scalp, back and ears. See a doctor about a mole or spot that is new, changing, itching or bleeding.
Adding more later
If you want to address acne, dark spots or lines, add one treatment product at a time. Skincare for Beginners: The Essential Steps shows how to build from the basics.
Related on ArniSun
- Skincare for Beginners: The Essential Steps
- Razor Burn vs Ingrown Hairs: Signs and Care
- How to Find Your Skin Type
- Sunscreen Guide: What SPF, UVA, and UVB Mean
- Facial Trimmer Buying Guide: Features and Cleaning
Sources and further reading
Frequently asked questions
Can men use the same skincare products as women?
Yes. Skin type and ingredients matter more than who the product is marketed to. Choose by how your skin behaves.
Is aftershave good for the skin?
Alcohol-based aftershaves can sting and dry the skin. A fragrance-free moisturizer or a soothing balm is usually kinder after shaving.
How often should men wash their face?
Twice a day, and after heavy sweating, is enough for most men. Washing more often can dry the skin without reducing oil for long.