Skincare isn’t just for women, and it’s definitely not a “luxury” — it’s basic maintenance. Your skin is your first line of defense and one of the first things people notice. Yet, so many men skip the simple steps that could keep them looking fresh, healthy and confident. Discover why men’s skincare matters, how to get started and the best products to put on your shelf.
Why men need skincare
Skincare is essential maintenance. Men’s skin is thicker and more oily, and it often experiences more daily irritation from shaving and sun exposure. That means it needs targeted care, not just a splash of water in the morning and whatever soap happens to be in the shower.
Plenty of guys skip skincare entirely, according to Dr. Arnold Breitbart, MD, a board-certified facial plastic surgeon and the Head Plastic Surgeon at Long Island Facelift.
“Many men resist skincare because they think it’s unnecessary or too complicated,” Breitbar says. “Skincare is also stereotypically unmasculine in many cultures. Ironically, the men who avoid skincare are usually those more likely to resort to cosmetic solutions later in life.”
Dr. Hannah Kopelman, dermatologist at DermOnDemand, adds that skincare isn’t just about looking good. Men face real issues, such as “accelerated aging, sunspots, razor burn, and even skin cancers that could’ve been prevented with regular sunscreen use.”
“I’ve also noticed that some guys only start thinking about it once they’re dealing with something noticeable, like acne, sun damage or wrinkles,” Kopelman says. “By then, they’re playing catch-up.”
If you’re not sure where to start, consider your skin tone’s natural sun sensitivity. The Fitzpatrick Skin Scale consists of six skin types and helps you evaluate how your skin responds to UV exposure, which is key for preventing long-term damage.
How to build a skincare routine you’ll stick to
The secret to a great routine is consistency, not a bathroom full of products. Start small with three steps — cleanse, moisturize and protect. Once those are second nature, you can add in extras like exfoliants or serums if you want.
Think about when you’re most likely to remember skincare. In the morning, after brushing your teeth? In the evening, after a shower? Tie it to an existing habit so it becomes automatic.
If you travel often or have unpredictable days, stash travel-sized versions of your essentials in your gym bag, car or suitcase to avoid skipping your routine.
The core products every man should have
Before you start filling your cart, follow Breitbart’s advice: “Every man should have three essentials: a cleanser, a moisturizer and a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. At night, you can add a product with retinol or antioxidants if you’re ready to take it up a notch.”
Here are the three products you should prioritize:
- Cleanser: It’s gentle enough to use daily, but effective at removing dirt and excess oil without stripping your skin.
- Moisturizer: It’s lightweight but hydrating to prevent dryness and help your skin barrier function properly.
- Sunscreen: Look for broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, and use it every single day, even when it’s cloudy.
Optional upgrades include an exfoliant to prevent dead skin from clogging pores, a serum for targeted concerns like fine lines and an eye cream if you want to look more awake than you feel.
Things to avoid when taking care of your skin
A good routine is also about what you don’t do. Avoid these habits to get the most out of your routine:
- Using body soap on your face: It’s too harsh and can strip away the natural oils your skin needs.
- Scrubbing like you’re sanding wood: Over-exfoliating causes micro-tears and irritation.
- Skipping sunscreen because it’s overcast: UV rays don’t take a day off.
- Chasing skincare trends: What works for someone on TikTok might not work for your skin type.
These habits can cause dryness, redness or breakouts. Cut them out and you’re already halfway to having better skin.
Top men’s skincare product recommendations
Here’s your starter pack for a no-fuss, results-driven routine.
1. CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser
Think of this as your daily reset button. Gentle but effective, it cleans without leaving your skin tight or dry, thanks to ceramides and hyaluronic acid. It’s perfect for normal to dry skin and a safe bet for most skin types.
2. Giovanni Men 2-in-1 Daily Body & Facial Cleanser
This clever two-in-one cleanser covers your face and body with just one product, ideal for shower simplification. Infused with cedarwood, lemongrass, aloe and ginseng, it cleans deeply while keeping skin hydrated with no fuss or extra bottles. It’s great for guys who want results without clutter.
3. Bulldog Natural Skincare Original Moisturizer for Men
Made with aloe, camelina oil and green tea, this moisturizer hydrates without greasiness. It’s also natural and minimal, so it suits pretty much every guy’s grooming shelf.
4. Vanicream Vitamin C Serum
If you have sensitive or uneven skin, this serum works to brighten your complexion. It’s lightweight and won’t clog your pores, meaning you won’t feel like you have too much product on your face.
5. Alba Botanica Hawaiian Face Sunscreen
This fragrance-free sunscreen protects your face from sun damage without feeling heavy. It’s an essential product in fighting skin cancer and premature aging.
6. TruSkin Retinol Serum
A retinol serum can help target existing damage, such as fine lines, wrinkles and pigmentation. This serum is gentle and a good place to start if you’re new to retinol.
How to match products to your skin type
Not all skin is created equal, and the wrong products can make things worse. Match your skin type with the right products to nourish and care for your skin’s particularities.
- Oily skin: Look for gel-based cleansers and oil-free moisturizers.
- Dry skin: Cream cleansers and richer moisturizers are your friends.
- Combination skin: Use gentle products that balance oil without over-drying.
- Sensitive skin: Choose fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formulas.
Level up your skincare game
At the end of the day, skincare is about health, confidence and showing up in the world looking like the best version of yourself. The right products improve your skin for years to come. Start simple, stay consistent and choose formulas that suit your skin type. Whether you’re rocking a rugged beard or a clean shave, your skin deserves the same care you’d give to anything you value.
The post The Best Skincare Serums and Products for Men — and Why You Need Them first appeared on The Upside by Vitacost.com.