The Best Skincare Routine (and Products) for Men, According to Derms

Dr. Camp recommends starting with a gel-based or foaming cleanser at least twice a day “to help remove excess oil, dirt and pollution that can cause acne and skin irritation.” 

According to SEO Editor Marissa Wu’s cousin, Ben, Sulwhasoo Daily Foaming Cleanser is a go-to for their routine. He shares, “I like the cleansing foam. My skin feels very clean and glowy after using it.”

If he’s trying to keep his complexion free of dry patches (and really, who isn’t?), moisturizing with a regular lotion simply won’t cut it. As Dr. Shirazi explains, “Shaving, sun exposure and daily environmental stressors can dry out the skin and disrupt its barrier. A moisturizer keeps the skin balanced, reduces irritation and softens fine lines over time.” For Executive Editor Alexia Dellner’s husband, Jack Black’s Double-Duty Moisturizer is essential. He says “it’s the best for the price” and loves the double duty moisturizer and conditioning beard lube. He adds, "It smells really nice.”

The third product needed to help achieve a simplified yet effective skincare routine is sunscreen. Men can go for a traditional sunscreen or use a moisturizer with SPF for a sweet 2-for-1 deal. “An SPF moisturizer may help prevent skin cancer, and it can lessen the impact of UV radiation on premature aging. This includes reducing the likelihood of developing fine lines, wrinkles and dark spots,” says Dr. Camp. Both derms suggest the Elta MD UV Daily SPF, a daily sunscreen with a lightweight formula and all-around protection against the harsh rays. 

Regular exfoliation is key for maintaining clear, healthy skin, so convince him to add an exfoliant to the mix. If he has a bump—whether it’s a whitehead, a blackhead or just your run-of-the-mill pimple—Dr. Shirazi recommends exfoliating clarify pads. She shares, “These are formulated with 2 percent salicylic acid and glycolic acid, and can be beneficial 2 to 3 times a week to help prevent ingrown hairs, razor bumps, blackheads, breakouts and folliculitis.” 

An eye cream is perfect for making him look more awake (yep, even if he was up all night playing Minecraft). “Eye creams help prevent the delicate skin around the eyes from showing your true age,” adds Dr. Camp. He suggests the SkinCeuticals AOX+ Eye Gel, sharing, “Products with vitamin C or retinol are effective for encouraging collagen production and minimizing the appearance of wrinkles.” 

If he’s ready to elevate his routine, a serum is a great way to target his skin concerns. Dr. Camp suggests starting with a vitamin C, which can help brighten skin, reduce the appearance of dark spots and protect skin against environmental stressors. His number one recommendation is Dr. Dennis Gross Vitamin C serum, which boasts 15 percent of the ingredient and works to even skin tone and prevent sun aging. 

As one of the most studied and oft touted ingredients by dermatologists, retinol has a reputation of being “the gold standard of anti-aging” because of its ability to tackle a wide range of skin concerns. As Dr. Camp further explains, “Retinols will help normalize skin cell turnover, which can reduce the likelihood of clogged pores and acne. Over time, retinols can encourage the production of collagen, which can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.” His recommendation? The Peter Thomas Roth Retinol Night Serum that promises to refresh and restore skin. 

It's very common for men to irritate their skin when shaving, so give him a few pointers to ease the process, like soaking the area that will be shaved beforehand to soften the hairs, then applying a generous amount of shaving cream to prevent any friction while shaving, which can damage the skin barrier and cause irritation, nicks or ingrown hairs. Finish with a calming aftershave to soothe angry skin and replenish any lost moisture for the smoothest results. (Psst, this set comes with all the beard essentials—plus, two face washes to take on the go.)