The short version: Cleanser, Moisturiser, SPF. That is your morning routine. Evening: Cleanser, Moisturiser. Add a retinol or niacinamide serum at night if you want to go further.
The morning routine
Step 1: Face wash (60 seconds)
Wash your face every morning. Use a gel cleanser for oily skin, cream cleanser for dry or sensitive skin. Lukewarm water, 60-second massage, rinse thoroughly.
Step 2: Moisturiser (30 seconds)
Men's skin is approximately 25% thicker and produces more sebum — but it still needs moisturiser. A lightweight gel formula absorbs in seconds and keeps your barrier healthy.
Step 3: SPF (30 seconds)
This is the most important step and the one most men skip. UVA rays are present 365 days a year and penetrate glass. Men develop significantly more skin cancers than women, largely due to lower SPF use. SPF 30+ daily, full stop.
Time hack: Use a moisturiser with SPF 30+ in the morning and combine steps 2 and 3 into one product.
The evening routine
Evening is simpler: cleanser and moisturiser. If you want to add an active, this is the time for niacinamide (oiliness and pores), retinol (anti-aging), or vitamin C (brightening). Start with one active at a time.
Products by skin type
- Oily: CeraVe Foaming Cleanser, Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel, La Roche-Posay Anthelios SPF50
- Dry: CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser, CeraVe Moisturising Cream, EltaMD UV Daily SPF40
- Combination: Cetaphil Gentle Cleanser, Bulldog Original Moisturiser, Supergoop Unseen SPF40
- Sensitive: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Cleanser, Avene Tolerance Cream, EltaMD UV Physical SPF41
Where shaving fits in
Shave after washing. Apply shaving cream generously, leave for 60-90 seconds, shave with the grain on sensitive areas. Rinse with cold water, apply aftershave balm, then moisturiser and SPF.
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