Disclaimer: Some of our recommended products under the Amazon Associate Program. This means we earn a small commission if you click on our “Shop Now” button link and purchase the products on Amazon. Whilst we are super appreciative if you can do so, but there’s no pressure if you do not want to. We wanted to be just being transparent on how we earn our money to sustain this portal. Greatly Appreciated!! #CommissionEarned
The layout of skincare shops is quite an indication that beauty or grooming products is probably associated more with females than it is with males. Usually, numerous shelves cater to the ladies, whilst only a small corner shelf is labelled “Men’s Skincare.” Before I met my girlfriend, I’d never think of stepping into such shops. After all, a basic skincare routine for men should not exist… scars make men, right? Wrong. Well, at least to my girlfriend, who dishes men’s skincare advice and grooming tips to me all the time.
With her recommendation, I’ve experimented with a couple of grooming products for my normal to combination skin. Those jars of creams? Face cleansers and scrubs? They actually work. I am beginning to see why she swear by her elaborate Korean-style skincare regime, and safe to say, I’m never going to wash my face with shower gel anymore.
Basic Skincare Routine for Men Guide
Here a step-by-step basic skincare routine for men that I’ve learnt, as well as the best skincare brands and products I’ve tried so far:
A body-wash-for-face kinda guy is loving the results of a proper grooming regime.
#1 Facial Wash
If there’s one thing I’ve learnt, a facial wash that leaves your skin feeling squeaky clean — AKA too dry — isn’t a good one. Personally, I find that Cetaphil’s Face and Body Wash is a great and affordable facial wash for all skin types and a daily face wash routine as its formula is tough on dirt and oil but gentle enough for sensitive and acne-prone skin types.
Get exclusive useful guides and deals
Subscribe to our newsletter
Product Name: Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
Amazon USA
USD $11.90
Guardian Singapore
SGD 21.90
#2 Toner
Because of its misleading name, I was under the impression that a toner’s job was to tone up one’s skin. I only found out otherwise when I jokingly asked my girlfriend if my jaw was looking more chiselled after applying it for a month. With an aghast face, she carefully explained what it was actually used for — prepping the complexion for better absorption of subsequent grooming products. I felt like my whole life had been a lie. Anyway, if you’re on the lookout for one, Biotherm’s Aquasource toner is particularly refreshing after a warm shower.
Amazon USA
USD 28.52
#3 Eye Cream
One night, I decided to give Kiehl’s Age Defender Eye Repair for Men a shot, because my eye bags and dark circles were crying out for a proper eye skin care routine. The following day, I decided to apply it again. As I looked in the mirror to apply it, however, I got the shock of my life – the state of my eye bags had improved drastically. Why hadn’t I discovered the wonders of eye creams earlier? Needless to say, I’ve been using it religiously ever since.
Product Name: Kiehl’s Age Defender Eye Repair for Men
Amazon USA
USD 59.98
#4 Anti-ageing serum
I have no idea whether these serums work, but I’ll let you know in a couple of years. However, Kiehl’s Age Defender Power Serum for Men does feel and smell great with its herbal scent and non-greasy texture.
#5 Moisturiser
Being in the gym means frequent showers and consequently, dry skin. This led my girlfriend to give me my first moisturiser, the Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream, which I hesitantly accepted. But I have to say, my life has changed for the better since.
Initially, I expected to feel a thick layer of cream over my face. But to my pleasant surprise, it was easily absorbed, and didn’t feel greasy. Inflammation slowly faded away, pimples stopped appearing, and my girlfriend saw my face for the first time. It was at this point where I finally understood why ladies are so loyal to their own skincare regimes. I apply this religiously day and night for healthy skin.
Amazon USA
USD 36.43
Wrapping Up
We hope you find the above routine useful. Do share with us if you have found any skincare routine for men that works best based on your skin type. We would love to hear from you. Meanwhile, if you are looking out for a good face wash based on skin type, here’s a list of best face wash for men.
Lastly, do follow us on our Instagram and Facebook page for more men’s grooming and style related content. See you in our next buyer’s guide!
Exclusive Discounts
Carefully reviewed and curated men’s grooming brands for your personal care routine