Although we at Skin School believe that skincare is for everyone, men can be a particularly fussy and stubborn bunch. It’s hard to get them on the skincare bandwagon sometimes.
Physiologically, men’s skin is also thicker which therefore requires more work from the body when trying to maintain the natural moisture barrier. Men’s skin also has a tendency to produce excessive oil, leading to acne and breakouts.
To combat this, all men need is a simple and consistent skincare regimen. It doesn’t need all the bells and whistles — a basic cleanse, tone, and moisturise, along with the occasional exfoliation should do the trick.
Follow it twice a day and you’re good to go. Alas, here is my simple men’s skincare routine that I do whenever I’m pressed for time (or simply can’t be bothered with my usual routine), including the products I swear by.
Step 1 – Cleanse with Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser
Out of everything that I have used over the years, this has been the only cleanser that has been able to remove even the toughest of grime and oil on my face. Suitable for all skin types, it’s a liquid formula that works by gently dissolving excess oil, dirt and debris while soothing the skin with emollients such as squalane, apricot kernel oil and Vitamin E. The result is squeaky-clean skin that is smooth and nurtured. If you have oily skin, Kiehl’s sells an oil-free version of this cleanser.
See more: Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser
Step 2 – Tone with Laneige Cream Skin 2-in-1 Moisturiser
FYI: If I’m really pressed for time (or just super lazy), I skip this toning step and go straight to moisturiser. But now that I’m fast approaching my 30’s, toner has become a godsend for keeping my skin plump and happy.
To bring light moisture back to my skin, I tone with this multitasking product. This softens like a toner and hydrates like a cream. I sometimes even use this on its own as a standalone moisturiser during scorching days or when I’m overseas in a humid area. This toner uses Laneige’s ‘Cream Blending Technology’ to dissolve cream into the toner consistency. Rich in White Leaf Tea Water, it soothes skin while strengthening the skin barrier and offering antioxidant protection.
See more: Laneige Cream Skin 2-in-1 Moisturiser
Step 3 – Moisturise with Cetaphil Daily Advance Ultra Hydrating Lotion
I’ve been using this simple but effective moisturiser for as long as I can remember. It’s incredibly gentle on the skin (a lifesaver when I had acne) and contains all of the essentials to keep skin happy like niacinamide (vitamin B3), panthenol (Pro-vitamin B5) and hydrating glycerin that absorbs moisture from the air and brings it to skin. Slather it on during the winter months, and if you’re using it in summer, you only need the smallest amount because of its strong hydrating properties.
See more: Cetaphil Daily Advance Ultra Hydrating Lotion
Daily Sunscreen (Morning) with Cancer Council SPF 50+ Day Wear
For a sunscreen that doesn’t break the bank, you can’t go past this one from the Cancer Council. I interchange between this product and the blue variation, depending on what I’m doing on the day. If it’s the beach, go for blue. If it’s everyday wear, go for pink. Lightweight, easy-to-apply, and a non-greasy formula, it works beautifully under makeup and looks invisible, making reapplying super easy. Not to mention its broad spectrum SPF50+, so I know I’m fully protecting my skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays. Sunscreen is a non-negotiable for me.
See more: Cancer Council SPF 50+ Day Wear
Weekly Exfoliation with Paula’s Choice BHA Liquid 2%
There’s a reason this liquid exfoliant is the brand’s number 1 bestseller and a cult favourite worldwide. The 2% salicylic acid efficiently unclogs pores, smooths wrinkles, and brightens and evens out skin tone. Unlike harsh scrubs, all you need to do is apply it, go to bed and marvel at the results the next day. I kid you not, your skin will be glowing the next morning. It’s a fluid, lightweight texture that absorbs quickly and I particularly love using this as a post-shave treatment to prevent ingrown hairs. There’s green tea extract in it as well for extra antioxidant protection.
See more: Paula’s Choice BHA Liquid 2%
