The world of skincare is constantly evolving. Thanks to the multitude of information and advice at our fingertips, cleansing routines are becoming more specific, serums more advanced and face creams increasingly sophisticated.
And while this is great for selecting products and getting the most from our formulas, it can often seem like this market is targeted at women. As skincare technically falls into the beauty category, men have not always received the same amount of guidance and knowledge when it comes to the influx of new ingredients and latest innovations on the shelves.
Here to simplify things, we have curated a stripped-back, step-by-step skincare routine for men that breaks down what you will need and why.
Whether you’re a complete novice or have dabbled in a moisturiser or two, keep reading for ESPA's guide to the modern-day skincare ritual for men.
A Simplified Skincare Routine for Men
Though men's skin is typically more resilient than women's, it shouldn’t be overlooked. From pore size to facial hair, there are numerous differences that men face when considering a skincare routine.
However, this doesn’t mean it needs to be complicated. Implementing a few essential products that work for you and getting used to applying them daily is the key to a structured system.
Plus, it’s never too late to begin your journey or build on your existing regimes when it comes to complexion care. If you are unsure where to start, below is an easy-to-follow guide that explains each step, in order of recommended application:
Step One: Cleanser
The first product you should use is a cleanser. Washing your face is important to remove impurities and control excess oil, as men tend to have more active sebaceous glands than women (due to higher testosterone levels).
You should cleanse morning and night to purify and prep the skin for subsequent steps.
Step Two: Treat (Optional)
If you know your skin type – for example, oily, blemish-prone, dry – adding in a concern-specific treatment can help to reduce the visible effects.
This step could be a hydrating toner, a gentle exfoliator, an ingredient-focussed serum or a spot treatment, depending on your needs.
Always apply your treatment step after cleansing and allow the formula to absorb for a few moments before proceeding.
Step Three: Eye Cream
Following on from your treatment (or cleanser, if you are skipping that step), the next skincare staple you should use is an eye cream.
The skin around the eyes is particularly delicate for everyone and is, therefore, one of the fastest areas to show signs of ageing. Paying extra attention and care to this area with a hydrating cream will work to diminish the appearance of fine lines, puffiness, and dark circles.
Simply take a pea-sized amount on your ring finger and tap around the eye contours, morning and night.
Step Four: Moisturiser
After the eyes, it’s advised to apply a moisturiser. Not only intended for dry skin types, but a facial cream also keeps oiliness at bay, too, as it prevents the glands from overcompensating and going into oil-production overdrive.
Moisturisers also lock in instant hydration to relieve the skin of dryness, alongside soothing the appearance of redness.
To apply, scoop a small amount and tap onto the forehead, cheeks and chin before gently massaging in until absorbed, again, both AM and PM.
Step Five: SPF
Finally, the skincare product that everybody should use before leaving the house, is always SPF.
Applied in the morning only, a sunscreen shields from harmful UV rays and pollutants that can dullen the skin’s tone and contribute to the signs of premature ageing. Sweeping on daily encourages a lessened look of fine lines, plus a brighter, more balanced complexion with continuous use.
When choosing a sun cream, look out for a broad-spectrum formula that has an SPF (sun protection factor) of 30+.
Once an effective regime has been established, the world of skincare loses its complex and daunting element. As it’s a routine, just like daily exercise, it soon becomes second-nature and a healthy habit you’ve built, allowing you to reap the wellbeing benefits while improving the look of your skin along the way.
Men’s Skin and Shaving
Since many men choose to shave, it’s a common factor to consider when caring for the skin. Shaving can cause ingrown hairs, irritation and blemishes without the right measures. To get started, ensure you’re equipped with a clean, sharp razor.
Here’s a suggested guide to shaving with your skin in mind:
Men's Face Shaving Guide
Wet a Cotton Cleansing Cloth with warm water and press onto the face, allowing the steam to open up the pores.
Apply a few drops of Triple Action Grooming Oil all over the face to soften the hairs and allow the razor to glide onto the skin for a comfortable, close shave.
Post-shave, wash the face with your cleanser. Rinse away the residue with cold water to help close the pores.
Gently press two pumps of Postshave Rescue onto the face and neck, smoothing into the skin until fully absorbed for a cooling effect.
Lastly, take the grooming oil once again to hydrate the moustache and beard hairs (if you haven’t completely clean shaved).
The best skin routine for men is always the one you stick to – that works for you and brings a sense of wellbeing to your morning and evening rituals. To kickstart your journey, shop all our tailored skincare formulas here.
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