Skincare Routine for Men

Skin biology is broadly similar across people, but many men deal with a few specific factors. Regular shaving can cause irritation and razor bumps, facial hair can trap oil and flakes underneath, and many people simply want a routine with as few steps as possible. A good routine addresses those without overcomplicating things.

The steps below keep the basics of any solid routine, which are cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection, and add optional extras for shaving days and oily areas. If your skin tends to be shiny or breakout-prone, our routine for oily skin goes into more detail. A common shortcut is to rely on whatever soap is in the shower, but body soaps are often harsher than facial cleansers and can leave skin tight or flaky. Swapping to a dedicated face wash and adding a moisturizer with SPF already covers most of what a routine needs. From there, the optional steps can be added based on what bothers you most, whether that is shaving irritation, shine, or texture.

Morning Routine

1. 1

   Cleanse

   Wash with a gentle gel cleanser, ideally before shaving so skin and hair are softened. Bar soap can be too drying for many faces.

2. 2

   Shave (if needed)

   Shave with the direction of hair growth using a sharp blade and a cushioning gel or cream to help reduce irritation.

3. 3

   Soothing toner or serum

   After shaving, apply an alcohol-free product with allantoin or panthenol to calm skin.

4. 4

   Moisturizer

   Use a light lotion; one with niacinamide can also help with the look of oil and pores. Apply it to the neck as well.

5. 5

   Sunscreen

   Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, including ears and the back of the neck. A two-in-one moisturizer with SPF works if you prefer fewer steps; just use enough. See how to apply sunscreen.

Evening Routine

1. 1

   Cleanse

   Wash away sweat, oil, and sunscreen. If you wore water-resistant sunscreen, an oil cleanser first helps remove it.

2. 2

   Exfoliate (2 to 3 times a week)

   A salicylic acid product can help keep pores clear and may reduce ingrown hairs in the beard area. Skip it right after a close shave.

3. 3

   Treatment (optional)

   If you want to address texture or fine lines, a low-strength retinol a few nights a week is a common next step.

4. 4

   Moisturize

   Finish with a moisturizer. If you have a beard, work a little into the skin underneath to help with flaking, and use the same product on your neck if it gets irritated from shaving.

Tips for Better Results

• Rinse your razor between strokes and replace blades regularly to reduce irritation.
• Wash your beard with your face wash or a gentle shampoo, and moisturize the skin beneath it.
• Use a shaving product without strong fragrance if your skin stings after shaving.
• Keep a moisturizer with SPF by the sink so the morning routine takes about two minutes.
• For frequent breakouts, see our acne guide for targeted ingredients.