Easy Skin Care Routine For Men
Ladies, I hear your cries! “What can I get my boyfriend/husband/partner to use on his skin when I can barely get him to wash his face?!” I get it. Most of my male patients tell me they’re using bar soap or just letting shampoo run down their face in the shower. I mean… we’re really starting from scratch here.
But here’s the good news: I am constantly preaching that skincare doesn’t need to be complicated. In fact, most men do not want a ten-step routine — and the truth is, they don’t need one (spoiler alert: nobody needs a ten step skin routine). I am going to provide two options for both an AM and PM routine (“simple” and “all in”). Keep reading for all my tips!
AM ROUTINE FOR THE MINIMALIST:
Step 1: La Roche-Posay SPF 50 (Non-Tinted)
Yes, you saw that right, one step. If he’s only going to do one thing — let it be sunscreen. This formula is lightweight, totally non-greasy, and actually comfortable to wear. If he is doing nothing else, make sure he is protecting against both UVA and UVB (to help prevent early aging and sun damage).
AM ROUTINE FOR GOING “ALL-IN:”
Step 1: Jan Marini Benzoyl Peroxide 2.5% Wash
One of my favorite hacks when you want to level up your routine, is to incorporate an active cleanser in the morning (3-4 days a week, you can use water the other days). gel cleanser that cuts through oil and grime without stripping the skin barrier. Great for normal to oily skin types.
Step 2: Cetaphil Vitamin C Serum
Beyond an SPF (that you can commit to every single day), the second best suggestion I have is to incorporate a Vitamin C serum. If you read my blog on skin combos I love (& don’t love), you would know that Vitamin C and SPF are a powerhouse duo! This is one of my favorite budget friendly Vitamin Cs. It’s affordable and effective, what else could you ask for?!
Step 3: La Roche-Posay SPF 50
Whether it’s a simple, leveled up, or all in AM routine, it will always finish with the last step being SPF.
Pro Tip: Make sure to use ¼ of a teaspoon! One of the biggest mistakes I see with sunscreen application is not applying enough!
EVENING ROUTINE FOR THE MINIMALIST:
Step 1: Bubble Fresh Start Gel Cleanser
Simple, affordable, and effective. This is a gentle foaming cleanser that washes thoroughly. If they are feeling a little extra committed, I recommend doing a double cleanse with this cleanser (aka just use it twice, to make sure all SPF and dirt is removed).
Step 2: La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat Moisturizer
This is a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer that hydrates while also helping to control shine. I especially love this one for guys with oily or combination skin.
EVENING ROUTINE FOR THE “ALL-IN” GUY:
Step 1: Bubble Fresh Start Gel Cleanser
Since he’s all in, definitely make sure he’s doing a double cleanse with this!
Step 2: La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat Moisturizer
Step 3: PCA Skin Intensive 0.5% Pure Retinol Night
There are very few cases where I don’t recommend a retinol to someone (pretty much if they’re pregnant and that’s it). Retinol is the gold standard for smoothing fine lines, reducing breakouts, and improving skin texture. This one combines retinol with calming ingredients to help prevent irritation! I would suggest having them start in this order, and as they build tolerance, they can switch the order of the moisturizer and the retinol.
A FEW THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND:
This is a general routine to just build a little structure, but skin type matters! If he’s dealing with (or thinks he has) acne, rosacea, or very dry skin, a personalized routine may be more appropriate. Encourage him to schedule a derm appointment!
Consistency is key. It doesn’t matter how fancy the products are if they’re sitting untouched in the cabinet. The best routine is the one he’ll actually stick to. So if SPF is all he can do in the morning, great!! I would so much rather he commit to that single step every morning, than all 3 steps only a few days a week.
Speaking of, start small. I always suggest beginning with the minimalist version and adding steps as needed. Once he starts seeing and feeling the benefits, it’s usually much easier to get him on board with a full routine.
It’s important to note that skin type is obviously a factor here. If your hubs is dealing with significant concerns like acne, rosacea, dry skin etc, it’s best for them to be evaluated for a custom routine. If you’re just trying to get him tot take better care of his skin, this is a great place to start!
xx Amy
**Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links and may contain products gifted in PR. This means that I may earn a small commission when you purchase via these links at no additional cost to you (thank you! It helps me keep things up and running)… As always I ONLY recommend products, goods and services that I stand behind and personally love and use.
