Let’s face it – skincare, as a man, can feel like stepping into unfamiliar territory. On the one hand, it’s great to see a growing focus on healthy skin, encouraging more men to look after their largest organ.
Even if it starts with something as simple as applying sunscreen, it’s a step in the right direction. But on the other hand, where do you even begin?
Most skincare advice is tailored to women. While there’s nothing wrong with learning from those resources, it can leave men feeling like an afterthought.
Add to that the rise of skincare influencers whose routines often seem more aspirational than achievable, and you’re left wondering: is this even for me?
Spoiler alert: yes, it is. But let’s cut through the noise and get back to basics.
START WITH THE ESSENTIALS
If you’re new to skincare, keep it simple. A routine with three core steps – cleansing, moisturising, and sunscreen – can do wonders.
Cleanser
Wash your face morning and night with a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and sweat. Avoid using bar soap, as it can strip your skin of its natural oils, leaving it dry and irritated.
Moisturiser
After cleansing, apply a lightweight moisturiser to keep your skin hydrated and balanced. Even if your skin feels oily, moisturiser is crucial – it prevents your skin from overproducing oil.
Sunscreen
This is non-negotiable. A broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher protects your skin from sun damage and premature ageing. Apply it daily, even if you’re indoors (UV rays can sneak through windows).
These steps form the foundation of any good skincare routine. Once you’ve got these down, you can explore additional products to target specific concerns.
THE ACID TEST (LITERALLY)
For those dealing with acne scars, blemishes, or uneven texture, chemical exfoliants can be a game-changer.
Acids like glycolic, salicylic and lactic acid are commonly recommended for tackling these issues, but here’s the catch: you need to know what you’re doing.
Salicylic Acid
Great for acne-prone skin, it works by unclogging pores and reducing inflammation. Start with a product containing around two per cent and use it a few times a week.
Glycolic Acid
This alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) exfoliates the surface of your skin, improving texture and tone. Be cautious – overuse can lead to irritation.
Lactic Acid
A gentler AHA that hydrates while exfoliating, making it ideal for sensitive skin. Patch-test new products before using them widely, and always follow up with moisturiser and sunscreen. Acids can increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun, so SPF is your best friend here.
ADDING A SERUM TO YOUR ROUTINE
Once you’ve mastered the basics, consider adding a serum to address specific skin concerns. Serums are concentrated formulas that can deliver powerful results with minimal effort.
Vitamin C
This antioxidant powerhouse brightens skin, evens tone, and boosts collagen production.
Apply it in the morning after cleansing but before moisturising. Since Vitamin C increases sun sensitivity, sunscreen becomes even more critical.
Hyaluronic Acid
If your skin feels dry or tight, this hydration hero can help. It attracts moisture to the skin, leaving it plump and smooth.
Niacinamide
Ideal for oily or acne-prone skin, it helps control oil production, minimise pores, and calm redness.
Introduce one serum at a time to avoid overwhelming your skin. A few drops go a long way, so start slow and let your skin adjust.
AVOID OVERWHELM
With new brands and products popping up daily, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Instead of diving headfirst into a dozen products, stick to a few simple guidelines:
– Research ingredients and choose products suited to your skin type.
– Introduce new products gradually to identify what works for you.
– Listen to your skin – if it feels irritated or looks red, scale back and give it time to recover.
Even with a perfect routine, you’ll have days when your skin doesn’t look or feel its best.
That’s okay. Skincare is about progress, not perfection.
While these tips provide a solid starting point, they’re no substitute for professional advice.
If you’re struggling with persistent issues like severe acne, deep scars, or anything else that doesn’t improve with over-the-counter products, consult a dermatologist. They can offer tailored solutions and guide you toward healthier skin.
Taking care of your skin isn’t about vanity; it’s about investing in yourself. So, gentlemen, grab that cleanser, try a serum and don’t skip the sunscreen. It’s not weird – it’s self-care, and you deserve it. – Wardi Wasil
