The Essential Skincare Guide For Men

In the past, skincare wasn’t necessarily a top priority for men. Most of the time, it consisted of simply washing your face with a random bar of shower soap and maybe putting on a lotion when you were feeling fancy. But, as skincare experts have grown more knowledgeable about men’s skin, it’s become abundantly clear that a skincare regimen for men is just as important as it is for women.

But finding the best moisturizer for men and a non-greasy sunscreen can be a challenge, mainly because men and women’s skin are biologically different. They each need different levels of hydration, oil control, and anti-aging. Men’s skin is thicker and oilier, not to mention more prone to irritation caused by regular shaving.

It’s clear that men need a skincare routine that is tailored to the unique needs of their skin. Not sure where to start? At Kiehl’s we’ve been helping men and women care for their skin for over 160 years, so we know what each truly needs for healthy-looking skin. Keep reading for our essential skincare tips for men.

Tip 1: Wash Your Face

Studies have shown that men can produce four times as much sebum as women, meaning they’re more likely to suffer from excessive oil, large pores, and acne. A good daily cleanser is essential to clean away excess oil that makes skin look shiny and keep dirt, debris, and dead surface skin cells from clogging pores. Kiehl’s Men’s Oil Eliminator Deep Cleansing Exfoliating Face Wash pulls double duty by cleaning away oil, pollution, dirt, and sweat without stripping the skin. It also exfoliates dead skin with Apricot Kernels, leaving your face looking smoother and brighter.

Tip 2: Invest In A Good Moisturizer

Despite producing more oil, men’s skin is naturally drier than women’s, so a moisturizer tailored to your skin’s needs is essential. Finding the best moisturizer for men is easy when you know what other issues you want to tackle.

Dull skin got you down?

The Caffeine in our bestselling Facial Fuel Energizing Moisture Treatment For Men has been shown to help stimulate the skin’s surface and, along with antioxidant Vitamin C, brighten dull complexions.

Problem with your pores?

Kiehl’s Oil Eliminator 24-Hour Anti-Shine Moisturizer For Men absorbs sweat and surface oil, resulting in pores that appear smaller.

Starting to see wrinkles?

Kiehl’s Age Defender Moisturizer can help lift and firm the skin with Linseed Extract.

Tip 3: Perfect Your Post-Shave Care

Constantly dragging a razor over your face can cause irritation and inflammation, leaving skin with redness, dryness, and razor bumps. In addition to using a sharp blade and plenty of hydrating shaving cream (we’re partial to the White Eagle Shave Cream), you’ll also want to provide a little extra TLC in the form of soothing, non-irritating moisturizers.

Kiehl’s iconic Ultra Facial Cream has been proven to provide 24-hours of hydration. Olive-derived Squalane, a highly refined moisturizing oil, is known to help restore your skin’s natural barrier function — the outermost layer of skin that helps keep moisture in and damaging, free radicals out. Apply it post-shave to help strengthen and protect your skin barrier while keeping your complexion feeling smooth, soft, and hydrated.

Tip 4: Don’t Forget Sunscreen

Doctors have noted that men are more sensitive to UV light, which makes them more susceptible to skin cancers. Yet while we know SPF is key, oftentimes men dislike sunscreen because it can be too thick, clump up in their beards, and/or feel greasy and clog pores. We made our Facial Fuel SPF 19 specifically for men to avoid those issues. The formula contains Vitamin E, a tried-and-true hydrator that absorbs well and won’t make skin slick. Wear it every day, rain or shine, and be sure to re-apply throughout the day if you are going to be in the sun.

If you’re still relying on that mystery soap bar languishing in the shower, it’s time to explore just how good a multi-step routine can be for your complexion. Your skin might be thicker, but that doesn’t mean it’s tougher — give it a little TLC and you’ll see a big difference.