We know that the anatomy of men and women is quite different. Skin, for starters, is a beast all its own—men’s skin is thicker, coarser, and oilier by nature. So it only makes sense that skincare routines would vary from gender to gender. And now, with science aiming to perfect men’s skincare, and the ever-expanding options to match, men can finally upgrade from simply a quick face wash in the shower with a generic bar of soap.
Not only is Kiehl’s equipped to upgrade your face washing rituals, but we’re also here to reimagine your entire skincare regimen. And if you’re not sure where to start, no problem. Keep reading for our essential skincare tips for men to elevate your skincare routine, including the best face washes, essential moisturizers, sunscreens, and more.
Tip 1: Wash Your Face
Studies have shown that men can produce four times as much sebum as women, meaning they’re more likely to suffer from excessive oil, enlarged pores, acne, and even facial scars. But preventative skincare is your best asset when it comes to combatting everything from breakouts to wrinkles, and a good daily cleanser is essential to deep cleaning skin. Without clearing away excess oil, skin tends to appear shiny, while dirt, debris, and dead surface skin cells clog pores. Luckily, Kiehl’s Men’s Oil Eliminator Deep Cleansing Exfoliating Face Wash pulls double duty by purifying skin from oil, pollution, dirt, and sweat—without stripping the skin. It also exfoliates dead skin with Apricot Kernels, leaving your face looking smoother and brighter.
Tip 2: Invest In The Best Facial Moisturizer
Despite producing more oil, men’s skin is naturally drier than women’s, so a moisturizer tailored to your skin’s needs is essential. Finding the best moisturizer for men is easy when you know what other issues you want to tackle.
Revive Dull Skin
The caffeine in our bestselling Facial Fuel Energizing Moisture Treatment For Men has been shown to help stimulate the skin’s surface and, along with antioxidant Vitamin C, brighten dull complexions.
Minimize The Appearance Of Pores
Kiehl’s Oil Eliminator 24-Hour Anti-Shine Moisturizer For Men absorbs sweat and surface oil, helping enlarged pores appear smaller.
Combat Signs Of Aging
If noticeable signs of aging have begun to creep up with the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, crow’s feet, dark spots, and more, Kiehl’s Age Defender Moisturizer can help lift and firm the skin with Linseed Extract.
Tip 3: Perfect Your Post-Shave Care
Constantly dragging a razor over your face can cause irritation and inflammation, leaving skin with redness, dryness, and razor bumps. In addition to using a sharp blade and plenty of hydrating shaving cream (we’re partial to the White Eagle Shave Cream), you’ll also want to provide a little extra TLC in the form of soothing, non-irritating moisturizers.
Kiehl’s iconic Ultra Facial Cream has been proven to provide 24-hours of hydration. Olive-derived Squalane, a highly refined moisturizing oil, is known to help restore your skin’s natural barrier function — the outermost layer of skin that helps keep moisture in and damaging, free radicals out. Apply it post-shave to help strengthen and protect your skin barrier while keeping your complexion feeling smooth, soft, and hydrated.
Tip 4: Don’t Forget Sunscreen
Doctors have noted that men are more sensitive to UV light, which makes them more susceptible to skin cancers. Yet while we know SPF is key, oftentimes men dislike sunscreen because it can be too thick, clump up in their beards, and/or feel greasy and clog pores. We made our Facial Fuel SPF 20 specifically for men so that protective, hydrating skincare is completely effortless. The formula contains Vitamin E, a tried-and-true hydrator that absorbs well and won’t make skin slick. Wear it every day, rain or shine, and be sure to re-apply throughout the day if you are going to be in the sun.
And if you’re still relying on that mystery soap bar languishing in the shower, it might be time to explore just how good a multi-step routine can be for your complexion. Your skin might be thicker, but that doesn’t mean it’s tougher — give it a little TLC and you’ll see a big difference.
