Skin Care Routine for Men

Skincare does not just be only for women, it is gender-neutral. More than women, men go through a lot in the whole day like exposure under pollution, sun exposure, excess oil, followed by sweat, skin irritation, and the list goes on. In such a case, proper skin care considering the skin type helps in strengthening the skin barrier and prevents signs of ageing, while boosting one’s confidence.

As men’s skin is generally thicker with large pores and little higher sebum production, their skincare routine differs when compared to me. Start with a simple and effective skincare routine especially if you are a beginner. 

In this blog, you will get to know the best skincare routine for men, how to start, ways to use them, and how to do them correctly for best results.

Skin care Routine for Men - Dedicated Routine

Generally men prefer just washing their face with any soap that is available within the hand reach. This is something that should be stopped; And in either routine, it does not need to be complicated like a 7 step or 10 step skincare routine.

When picking a proper skincare routine for men, it should:

• Control excess oil secretion.

• Cleanse deeply without compromising on skin barrier.

• Reduce skin concerns like pigmentation, scars, or redness if any.

• No irritation post-shaving

• Have healthy and glowing skin.

Here is a simple 5 step routine which can be used in both AM and PM routine.

Step 1: Cleansing – The OG Step in Skincare

Cleansing, one of the first and foremost steps in skincare. For cleansing, you can pick a gentle cleanser instead of soaps; This is because cleanser helps in balancing the PH of the skin without damaging them! They help in deeply cleaning the skin shedding away the product build-ups and other build-ups. If you are someone who sweats more and travels frequently, then gentle cleansing is mandatory.

Take a pea-sized amount and gentle massage your face in circular motions, and wash off after 40 - 60 seconds.

The one step which sets as a base for healthy and glowing. In the AM routine, you can just use only a cleanser. But in PM routine, ensure to double cleanse like cleansing balm/cleansing oil + face wash 

Guide to Pick face wash based on skin type:

1. If you have extremely dry, stretchy, or flaky skin, go with a cream based or moisturizing cleanser.

2. If you have greasy and oily skin, go with light-weight cleansers, which is either water-based or gel-based.

3. If you have acne-prone skin or sensitive skin, choose watery, light-weight face washes.

Step 2: Exfoliation – A Magical Step in Skincare

Exfoliation, one of the must-follow steps for healthy skin especially post 20’s. This helps in removing the dead skin cells without causing textures, blackheads, and whiteheads in the skin. 

This step is generally stepped, which will lead to ingrown hairs and uneven tone in the skin. Doing exfoliation once or twice in a week helps in preventing acne, reduces skin tan, and helps in making the product work better than usual.

There are two types of exfoliation, physical and chemical exfoliation. Choose one which suits your skin. While exfoliating skin, be gentle and do not do too much once, else this will lead to skin irritation or redness.

Step 3: Toning – Balances Skin

Toner, an optional product in skincare, but plays a key role when it comes to oily skin and acne-prone skin folks. Using this in skincare helps in restoring the skin post cleansing or act as a base for treatment products.

Should men use toner?

Yes, using them helps in controlling the excess oil, tightens pores, and also helps in refreshing skin instantly. You can use them with cotton pads and clean hands for better results.

Step 4: Serum – Targeted Treatment for Men’s Skin Concerns

Serums, one of the light-weight serum which helps in absorbing faster and is packed with single and awesome ingredients. Picking one for your skin might be crucial, but they play a key role in skincare.

Use them twice in a day for best results. You can use just 2 to 3 drops on damp skin!

How Incorporating Serum Helps Men?

Using serum helps in dealing with skin concerns like dull skin, uneven skin tone, dehydrated skin, and even early signs of aging.

You can use serums like vitamin C serum, skin brightening serum, hyaluronic acid serum, etc for best results. Vitamin C helps in brightening skin while hyaluronic acid helps in hydrating and plumping skin.

Step 5: Moisturising – Hydrates Skin 

Men generally skip moisturizer since they make skin greasy or oily. Which is why lack of moisturization makes skin more oily or extremely dry, based on your skin type.

It is not okay to skip moisturizer since they help in strengthening the skin barrier, prevents dryness/flakiness in the skin, and even makes skin softer.

Want a light-weight or non-greasy moisturizer, then go with gel-based, water-based serum for best results.

Step 6: Sun Protection – The Most Ignored Step by Men

Sun rays might cause the biggest skin concern, which means it will cause tan, pigmentation, and even uneven skin tone. Skipping this step might skin and even damage 

Sun damage is the biggest cause of tanning, pigmentation, premature ageing, and uneven skin tone in men. Skipping this step will lead to sunburn, causes wrinkles, and even causes skin damage.

Use SPF Sunscreeen 10 to 15 mins before stepping out of the house. Reapply if you are outside for more than a couple of hours.

Common Skincare Mistakes Men Should Avoid

1. Do not use the same soap for both face and body.

2. Never skip moisturizer and sunscreen, no matter what skin type you have!

3. Do not wash your face more than twice in a week.

4. Do not exfoliate more than twice in a week for best results.

Conclusion

Using a proper skincare routine for men does not need to be completed; But a simple routine will help. For men, a healthy and proper CTM with serum and sunscreen is mandatory for best results.

Ensure to be consistent with skincare and be disciplined for visible results.

FAQ’s

How often should men follow a skincare routine?

Men should follow a basic skincare routine twice daily—morning and night. Consistency helps control oil, prevent breakouts, and maintain healthy skin over time.

Is skincare necessary for men with oily skin?

Yes, oily skin needs skincare the most. Using the right face wash, toner, and lightweight moisturizer helps balance oil production and prevents acne.

Can men use the same skincare products as women?

Men can use unisex skincare products, but formulas suited for men’s thicker, oilier skin often work better. Natural, gentle products are ideal for all genders.

Should men apply sunscreen even when indoors?

Yes. UV rays can penetrate windows and screens, causing pigmentation and ageing. Daily sunscreen use protects skin from long-term damage.

How long does it take to see results from a skincare routine?

Visible improvements usually appear within 2–4 weeks of consistent use. Clearer skin, better hydration, and reduced dullness develop gradually with regular care.