The ultimate skin care routine for men to have clear, youthful skin.

Ultimate Skin Care Routine For Men


For many men, after puberty, skincare becomes an afterthought.  Maintaining clear and youthful skin; however, can pay dividends, especially as a man ages.  Ladies love it, it improves self-esteem, and can help in your career.  The following routine will help you to keep clear, healthy, and youthful skin for longer.  

## Wash Your Face  

This probably seems obvious, but there are some important considerations.  First, you should wash your face in the morning and before bed.  We are constantly accumulating dirt, oil, and grime -- even while we sleep.  Cleaning it off helps keep your pores clear.  

Next, you should tune your face wash to your skin type.  If you have oily skin or get frequent pimples, you should consider a face wash with salicylic acid like [100° Celsius Men’s Products Face Wash Acne-Prone](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07BZWZXZM/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=apex0c-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B07BZWZXZM&linkId=b6fb62bd5a4524af6bc8a0641da3c01f).  However, if you have dry skin or suffer from eczema, you should use something gentle, but won't clog your pores like [Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001ET79H8/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=apex0c-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B001ET79H8&linkId=848b828b4b89227fdb256b340312075a).  

An important note about choosing a face wash, be careful about over-exfoliating.  Exfoliating is an important part of your skincare routine.  However, over-exfoliating is real.  You should only exfoliate ~3 times per week and you may get exfoliation as part of a face mask or other treatment below.  

Finally, be sure to dry your face with a clean towel.  Do not use a towel that you have been using to dry your hands or an after-shower towel that has been hanging for days!  You are just putting bacteria back in your pores.  

## Shave... Frequently  

I hate shaving.  I would rather get the extra ten minutes of sleep.  But, shaving is great for your skincare routine.  It exfoliates away dead skin cells along with grime deep in your pores.  Frequent shaving also prevents in-grown hairs from forming.  

Before shaving, be sure to wash your hands and face, so you don't add any bacteria or oil back to your skin.  Washing your face with warm to hot water will also help to open your pores.  

After shaving, use a fragrance-free aftershave or toner.  Once your face is completely dry, apply an aftershave balm, such as [Neutrogena Men Sensitive Skin Post Shave Balm](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000KUAKPA/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=apex0c-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B000KUAKPA&linkId=e5f90d2497c6900c534b75db1d64a0ab).  

## Moisturize  

Moisturizers are x-games mode for skincare.  Picking the right moisturizers, though, can be tricky, as there are many different applications.  Below is a quick synopsis of what is available, in the order that they should be applied.  

### Toner  

Do you need a toner?  Probably not, but, if you suffer from acne a toner can help prevent pore blockage when you apply other moisturizers or sunscreen.  [A guide to toners](/skincare/toners).  

### Serum  

Another very optional product.  However, if you are getting a late start to skincare, a serum can make some impact on slowing down signs of aging. [A guide to serums](/skincare/serums).  

### Eye Cream  

Very underrated and highly recommended.  Bad eating habits, sleeping habits, or too much sun can take a toll on our eyes.  A good eye cream can help you kiss puffy, baggy, and wrinkly eyes goodbye.  Recommended to apply both mornings and before bed.  [A guide to eye creams](/skincare/eye-cream).  

### Repair Cream  

Repair cream is your bread and butter moisturizer product.  You should at least apply a repair cream in the morning and at night.  Repair creams hydrate your skin and provide some topical vitamins that can promote collagen production.  [A guide to repair creams](/skincare/repair-creams).  

## Sunscreen  

Almost all of us are guilty of underwhelming use of sunscreen.  However, sunscreen is the number one recommendation by dermatologists for healthy skin.  Each morning After your moisturizers, apply sunscreen for faces, like [Neutrogena Sport Face Sunscreen](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001P92FMG/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=apex0c-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B001P92FMG&linkId=518561a49b272cc93c9ffcbe14c5577e).  

An important note, sunscreen does not last all day.  If you are out in the sun all day, remember to reapply every 90 minutes or so.  Also, do not ignore the rest of your body.  

## Face Masks  

Face masks can be overwhelming for many men.  There are a lot of options.  They are the quintessential day spa treatment which can create apprehension for tough guys.  They are not a quick treatment.  I get it.  But, if you are ready, face masks are next level and can be super relaxing or fun to do with your spouse/partner.  

### Sheet Masks  

I love a good Korean sheet mask.  Sheet masks are thin, paper sheets that are drenched in an essence.  You apply the mask to your face and chill for 15-20 minutes while the essence does its work.  Depending on the essence, the sheet mask can help with hydration, blending age spots, decreasing wrinkles, or other needs.  Check out our [guide to sheet masks](/skincare/sheet-masks).  I try to do at least 1 each week.  

### Clay masks  

If you tend to get blackheads or clogged pores, clay masks are here to rescue you.  These masks come in a jar and you apply thickly to your face and let it harden, then wipe off with a clean, wet towel.  The mask draws out the gunk in your pores when you wipe it off!  Even if you don't have problems with clogged pores, you should still do a clay mask like [Dead Sea Mud Mask for Face & Body
](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01NCM25K7/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=apex0c-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B01NCM25K7&linkId=298fcdef4b7f4b8b2b71857eccd4ac94), as it helps to exfoliate away dead skin cells.  These are a once or twice per week treatment.  

### Light therapy masks  

Light therapy masks are one of the secrets of professional beautiful people.  They use various spectra of light, especially infrared, to undo aging at the cellular level.  Do they work?  [According to dermatologists](https://www.harpersbazaar.com/uk/beauty/a29497506/best-led-face-mask/), yes, but only if you commit to consistent usage.  If you want to advance to the final level of skincare, check out our [guide to light therapy masks](/posts/skin/light-therapy-masks)  

## Hydrate  

Our bodies are mostly water, so we need to constantly replenish it.  If you don't stay hydrated, it is harder for your skin to repair itself and it looks like crap.  According to the Mayo Clinic, men should drink 15.5 cups of water per day [Mayo Clinic](https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/water/art-20044256#:~:text=The%20National%20Academies%20of%20Sciences,fluids%20a%20day%20for%20women).  Make sure you drink up.  

## Sleep  

Just like hydration, sleep is crucial for allowing the skin to repair itself.  Limit screen time before bed, limit alcohol, meditate, or try some of these practices to improve sleep [Ways to improve your sleep quality](https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/8-ways-to-improve-sleep-quality-as-you-age/art-20270179).  

## Discipline  

The most important tip is to stick with your routine!  Do not bite off more than you can chew and give up.  Start by adding elements from the above that you can stick to and stick to them.  If you see good results, add another element.  If you want daily reminders, sign up for our skincare newsletter, and we will send you morning and evening reminders, as well as the latest skincare products!  


The definitive guide to toners men should consider for their skincare routine.

Our Guide to Toners


Toner can remove dirt, oil, and grime and prep your skin for the rest of your skincare routine.  This is especially helpful if you suffer from blackheads or acne.  However, toner also tones your skin by tightening your pores, restoring your skin's pH, and smoothing rough patches.  Please read on to get reviews on the best toners we have tried:

## Neutrogena Alcohol-Free Toner

**Score: 7.5**  Almost everyone's first skincare product comes from Neutrogena.  They just make good, quality, products.  Their alcohol-free toner is no exception.  It absorbs quickly, doesn't dry out your skin, and unclogs your pores.

[Buy Here](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000U5O650/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=apex0c-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B000U5O650&linkId=e76e4269aca1d2f472a5a29f9ebc45c5)

## Pyunkang Yul Essence Toner

![Pyunkang Yul Essence Toner](/images/products/pyunkang_yul_toner.jpg)  

**Score: 8.0**  This toner uses Milk Vetch Root Extract as a base and is a little viscous/sticky when applied.  However, it absorbs quickly and improves your skin's elasticity.  No smell and hypoallergenic.  Main downside, it ships from South Korea, so need to combine with many other products to get free shipping and takes some time to arrive.

[Buy Here](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07KPPH9R9/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=apex0c-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B07KPPH9R9&linkId=3ecba18be24278cd2ed249ed13eec772)

## Kiehl's Facial Fuel Tonic

![Keihl's Facial Fuel Tonic](/images/products/pyunkang_yul_serum.jpg)  

**Score: 7.0**  At some point, most men find their way to Kiehl's.  Like most Kiehl's products, Facial Fuel Tonic is a decent product, but a little over priced.  This toner has a nice, refreshing smell to it and absorbs quickly.  However, it left my face feeling a bit dried out.  Received as a gift and used it until it was done, but won't be buying on my own.

[Buy Here](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B072L4CZK8/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=apex0c-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B072L4CZK8&linkId=77565b0680894b2971897552c7d90ca4)


The definitive guide to sheet masks men should consider for their skincare routine.

Our Guide to Sheet Masks


Face masks are tough for many men to embrace, as they are seen as very feminine.  But, get over it -- face masks are great.  They are treatments that all our skin to soak up nutrients to make our skin healthy and look its best.  Please read on to get reviews on the best sheet masks we have tried:

## Dermal Snail Collagen Essence Facial Mask Sheet

**Score: 9.0**  Dermal mask solid masks in general -- low cost, lots of goop, easy to apply.  But, the Snail Essence is their coup de grace.  Snail essence is staple of east asian skincare, but western science now backs it up as great for our skin, and the Dermal mask is loaded with it!

[Buy Here](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009UKS7R4/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=apex0c-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B009UKS7R4&linkId=4978a6e7bbfdec55e0824c8b52968ce5)


The definitive guide to serums men should consider for their skincare routine.

Our Guide to Serums


What the hell is a serum?  The bottle makes it look like something from an alchemist.  In a way, it is.  Serums are what based lotions that are enriched with vitamins, minerals, or other nutrients.  They give your skincare routine an extra boost, as they are typically formulated for a specific goal.  Please read on to get reviews on the best serums we have tried:

## Pyunkang Yul Moisture Serum

![Pyunkang Yul Moisture Serum](/images/products/pyunkang_yul_serum.jpg)

**Score: 8.0**  Pyunkang Yul's Moisture Serum is a nice, middle of the road serum that focuses on skin hydration.  It is a solid choice if you are in the sun a lot, as the sun can dry our skin out.  Two drops after toner and before eye or repair creme in the morning and/or evening is sufficient.

[Buy Here](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06ZZ8ND68/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=apex0c-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B06ZZ8ND68&linkId=fe8c8a91c7a02dedc1cf567eff7b0e85)

## Jack Black Protein Booster Serum

![Jack Black Protein Booster Serum](/images/products/jack_black_serum.jpg)

**Score: 8.0**  This serum is geared towards anti-aging, as it is pumped full or protein/amino acids.  Jack Black's Protein Booster Serum goes on pretty thin and is absorbed super quickly with a nice cedar-like smell.  I'm not typically a fan of the Jack Black line of products, but, this one is pretty good.

[Buy Here](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001W12MQ6/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=apex0c-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B001W12MQ6&linkId=c863a22412fbef3729d5e48647906e99)


The definitive guide to repair creams men should consider for their skincare routine.

Our Guide to Repair Creams


Repair creams are generalized facial skin care product.  Repair creams help to replenish collagen, topically add vitamins, and fully moisturize face skin.  Please read on to get reviews on the best repair creams we have tried:

## Pyunkang Yul Intensive Repair Cream

![Pyunkang Yul Intensive Repair Cream](/images/products/pyunkang_yul_repair_cream.jpg)

**Score: 9.0**  A solid all around cream.  It goes on thick and has a very light smell.  It absorbs fairly quickly, fast enough that you can use morning or evening.  Leaves your skin feeling moisturized.  Very important, stick with this cream, as you won't see the benefits until you nearly finish the first tub, but once you do, your skin will feel much younger and look younger too.  Ships from South Korea, so you will need to combine with several other products to get free shipping.

[Buy Here](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07LC617LD/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=apex0c-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B07LC617LD&linkId=f1ad79f7d1ddaf1563668266c2b1e3a6)

## Kiehl's Age Defender Moisturizer

![Kiehl's Age Defender Moisturizer](/images/products/kiehls_age_defender.jpg)

**Score: 8.5**  Overall, this is a good product.  It is a thick cream, but absorbs quickly with little to no smell.  You will notice results quickly, as your skin will feel tighter within a week of usage.  One important note, though, if you have sensitive skin, this can cause irritation, especially if you apply after a shave.

[Buy Here](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07TY45ZVP/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=apex0c-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B07TY45ZVP&linkId=d7eb204d076208fceca37f0b53e4aa9e)

## Clinique For Men Oil Control Mattifying Moisturizer

![Clinique For Men Oil Control Mattifying Moisturizer](/images/products/clinique_oil_control_moisturizer.jpg)

**Score: 7.5**  This product is pretty solid for those who are prone to acne or blackheads.  This goes on thinner and absorbs faster that most repair creams, though, does give you a feeling of being moisturized.  I did not notice significant improvement to the skin while using this, but it is certainly better than not using a face moisturizer and did not add to pore blockages.

[Buy Here](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00OBCP9JA/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=apex0c-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00OBCP9JA&linkId=f322be1f7b91a8c8e1bf56ec679b1f18)


The definitive guide to eye creams men should consider for their skincare routine.

Our Guide to Eye Creams


Stress, lack of sleep, partying... they all take a major toll on the skin around our eyes.  Droopy bags, dark circles, crows free, we all get them.  Eye creams have a lot of bang for the buck, as they can slow down or reverse some of this damage and take years off our face.  Please read on to get reviews on the best eye creams we have tried:

## Pyunkang Yul Black Tea Time Reverse Eye Cream

![Pyunkang Yul Black Tea Time Reverse Eye Cream](/images/products/pyunkang_yul_black_tea_eye.jpg)

**Score: 10.0**  This is hands down my favorite skincare product.  Like all eye creams, this is a thick product; however, unlike other eye creams it doesn't feel heavy on application and absorbs quickly.  Most importantly, within just a few days of adding to my routine, I could see a major difference in terms of shrinking bags and lightening of my dark circles.  After being in my routine for a few months, I noticed my crows feet when I smile are not as prevalent.  
[Buy Here](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08CH3HLXF/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=apex0c-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B08CH3HLXF&linkId=ca3cd0bd372c67f6e33100213f51facb)

## Kiehl's Creamy Eye Treatment

![Kiehl's Creamy Eye Treatment](/images/products/kiehls_avocado_eye_cream.jpg)

**Score: 8.5**  This was my introduction to skincare as it was the first product to show me real results.  This eye treatment is made with avocado and goes on thick.  It takes some time to absorb, so recommended for night time use.  With just a few uses, you will notice improvement in terms of your eye skin, with puffiness decreasing and bags decreasing.  
[Buy Here](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B082MB8R9D/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=apex0c-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B082MB8R9D&linkId=04931239fd264287eba9de36008bfe43)

## Clinique For Men Anti-age Eye Cream

**Score: 6.5**  A very mediocre product.  This product is thick, but goes on greasy and does not absorb quickly.  I did not really notice any changes in my skin while using this product and it primarily now just lives in my air travel bag because of its small size.  It is also quite expensive.  
[Buy Here](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002SQ14AO/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=apex0c-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B002SQ14AO&linkId=2361c9ff1289737f6db76d448e7130fd)


A guide to skincare routines and products for your journey to healthy and youthful skin