A No-Nonsense Guide to Basic Skin Care for Men
Last updated March 28, 2023
Let's face it, most guys don't really think about taking care of their skin. It's usually just a quick rinse with whatever bar of soap is lying around. But it's honestly not that hard to level up your skin care game with a basic routine that's easy to establish. It only takes a few simple steps, and you'll notice a world of difference in the look and feel of your skin. So say goodbye to that shitty bar of soap and hello to a clean, moisturized, and protected face. Let's get started!
Morning Routine
Establishing a basic skin care routine is actually super easy, and it doesn't take much time at all. It only takes a few minutes in the morning to wash your face, apply moisturizer, and use SPF. And once you get into the habit, it becomes second nature, just like brushing your teeth. Plus, with just a few simple steps, you'll be able to see and feel the difference in your skin. So, there's really no excuse not to establish a routine that will keep your skin healthy and looking great.
So, let's keep it simple with a 4 step morning routine.
- Shower & Body Wash - Take a shower and use a decent body wash to clean your body. Save yourself time and go with Oars + Alps product.
- Face Wash - Use a good face wash for your face instead of body wash or a bar of soap. This does matter. Check out our top face wash recommendations.
- Moisturizer - Apply a moisturizer with SPF 15-20 to protect your skin from sun damage. Can't go wrong with Kiehl's Facial Fuel.
- Sunscreen - If you'll be outside for a long time, apply a good sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and reapply throughout the day if needed. Try Jack Black's Sun Guard for all day protection.
Evening Routine
We get it, you're tired at night. But the good news is that establishing a basic skin care routine is simple and quick. A few minutes of effort at night can help prevent fine lines, wrinkles, and dryness. Not to mention, the benefits of having healthy and attractive skin will pay off in the long run. So, even if you're exhausted, taking a little bit of time to wash your face and apply a moisturizer can make all the difference. Trust us, your future self will thank you.
- Face Wash - Wash your face again with a facial cleanser to remove the grime and pollution of the day.
- Moisturizer - Apply a good moisturizer to hydrate your skin and prevent dryness. Caldera + Lab's The Base Layer is great for your before bed option.
Bonus: If you're starting to battle the elements of age, use an eye cream or a serum to keep the skin around your eyes firm and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
Our Top Picks
Body Wash: Huron Body Wash
Body Wash: Huron Body Wash
Huron Body Wash became a Derm For Dudes favorite because it smells—and we can’t stress this enough—absolutely incredible. But we’ve kept it in rotation because it’s super economical considering the quality of the product. It’s packed with nourishing ingredients and free of nasty chemicals. If you think you need to spend big money for a premium formula, think again. Huron offers a first-class product at a fair price.
The "Good"
- Free of parabens, sulfates, phthalates, and other harsh ingredients
- Clean, crisp citrus scent smells fantastic
The "Could Be Better"
- Highly fragranced; may not be suitable for those sensitive to strong scents
Active Ingredients
Witch Hazel, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Eucalyptus Oil, Black Walnut Leaf Extract
Moisturizer: Geologie Moisturizing Face Cream with SPF15
Geologie Moisturizing Face Cream with SPF15 is a perfect addition to your daily skincare routine. This nourishing and hydrating moisturizer helps keep skin looking and feeling healthy while protecting against the sun's harmful rays. Made with Hyaluronic Acid and Niacinamide, it’s the right mix of active ingredients to do the job.
The "Good"
- Ocean Friendly SPF15
- Smooth application
The "Could Be Better"
- Price tag
Active Ingredients
Sunscreen: Jack Black Oil-Free Sun Guard SPF 45 Sunscreen
Jack Black’s Oil-Free Sun Guard sunscreen is packed with vitamins and offers sweat-proof UVA/UVB protection that stays put during active days in the sun. Its oil-free formula absorbs quickly, offering maximum protection without drying.
The "Good"
- Lightweight, non-greasy mineral formula.
- Absorbs quickly and leaves no white cast.
The "Could Be Better"
- Zinc Oxide may be more irritating to eyes than chemical sunscreen.
Active Ingredients
Eye Cream: Every Man Jack's Triple Action Anti Aging Eye Cream for Men
Every Man Jack's Triple Action Anti Aging Eye Cream for Men is a powerful eye cream that reduces dark circles, puffiness, and fine wrinkles around the eyes. Formulated with cocoa butter, aloe, and myrtus leaf extract, this cream provides long-lasting hydration and nourishment to tired eyes. It's also free of parabens, sulfates, phthalates, and colorants.
The "Good"
- Fragrance Free
- Cruelty Free
- Great price point
The "Could Be Better"
- Eye bags impact limited
Active Ingredients
Serum: Caldera + Lab The Good
The Good by Caldera + Lab is a lightweight, versatile facial serum suitable for all skin types, infused with 27 botanicals to fight signs of aging and environmental stressors. Its clinically proven formula includes natural ingredients like wild-harvested botanical oils, fireweed, and CoQ10 to firm fine lines. The Good is easy to use and its MADE SAFE certified formula is free of harmful additives, making it a safe and effective option for men's skincare.
The "Good"
- Organic and natural
- The Good is a multi-functional facial serum that can be used on dry, sensitive, and normal skin types.
- Easy to apply and quickly absorbs into the skin
The "Could Be Better"
- More expensive compared to other facial serums
- Some may not like the scent, which is described as an herbal or medicinal smell
- Glass packaging may not be as convenient for travel
Active Ingredients
In Summary
With just a few simple steps, you can have healthier, more attractive skin that will help you look and feel your best. Don't let the common misconceptions or outdated ideas about skin care hold you back. Remember, taking care of your skin is a small investment of time that pays off in the long run. So, don't be afraid to upgrade your skin care game, try out new products and techniques, and find what works best for you. Your future self (and anyone who sees you) will thank you for it.