Men's Skin Care Buying Guide

A useful men's skincare routine can be very short. Begin with the products you'll use consistently, choose textures that feel comfortable and add extra steps only when they serve a clear purpose.

Start with a simple routine

If you're starting from scratch, focus on three steps: cleanser, moisturiser and sunscreen during the day. A face wash for men or a suitable unisex cleanser removes daily oil, sunscreen and residue. Moisturiser follows cleansing, while a properly labelled sunscreen should be the final skincare step in the morning.

Serums, toners, eye products, exfoliants, masks and face oils are optional. They can be worthwhile when you have a particular cosmetic preference, but they aren't required for a complete basic routine. Two or three products used regularly are often more practical than a crowded bathroom shelf.

Men's products or unisex skincare?

Products marketed specifically for men can be appealing for good reasons. They may offer straightforward product selections, familiar fragrances and textures, shaving-related formats or multi-purpose formulas. The packaging and positioning may also make the range easier to navigate when you're new to skincare or buying a gift.

That doesn't automatically make a men's formula a better match for every man. Most cleansers, moisturisers and facial treatments aren't inherently male or female. Skin type, texture and intended use are more useful deciding factors. For example, a lightweight unisex moisturiser formulated for oily or combination skin may suit an oily-skinned man better than a rich cream carrying a men's label.

Choosing skincare for oily or combination skin

Male skin tends to produce more sebum on average, but that doesn't mean every man has oily skin. If your face becomes shiny through the day or feels oily in some areas and comfortable or dry in others, look towards products intended for oily or combination skin.

Gel or lightweight cleansers and moisturising fluids, gels or lotions may feel more comfortable than heavy textures. The cleanser should leave your face feeling clean without creating an uncomfortably tight or stripped sensation. La Mav's oily and combination skin collection provides a useful unisex route, including its Sweet Orange Balancing Cleanser and lightweight Skin Balancing Fluid.

Oily skin can still use moisturiser

Oil and moisture aren't interchangeable, so an oily skin type doesn't automatically make moisturiser unnecessary. Instead of skipping this step, choose the texture carefully. A light fluid, gel or lotion can provide a less heavy finish than a rich cream. Start with a modest amount and adjust according to how the product feels on your skin.

Choosing skincare for dry skin

Dryness can show up as tightness, rough texture or flaking, particularly after cleansing or shaving, during cooler weather or in air-conditioned environments. A creamier cleanser and a moisturising lotion or cream may feel more comfortable. Richer formulas are also worth considering if lighter products don't provide the texture you prefer.

Fragrance-free choices may appeal if fragrance is something you prefer to avoid. Don't assume natural skin care for men must always feel ultra-light, strongly scented or matte; the best starting point is how your own skin feels.

Sensitive-feeling skin and shaving

If your skin feels uncomfortable after shaving, consider the routine as a whole rather than focusing only on the after-shave product. Your cleanser, shaving product, technique and moisturiser can all affect the experience. Some shoppers prefer fragrance-free or simpler formulas, particularly when several products are used on freshly shaved skin.

Introduce new products gradually so it's easier to notice how your skin responds. If irritation develops, stop using the product; persistent or significant concerns are best discussed with a suitable healthcare professional.

Natural, organic and value considerations

Natural and organic don't mean exactly the same thing. A formula may contain natural ingredients, a combination of natural and organic ingredients, or hold recognised organic certification for the complete product. Certification should only be assumed where it is specifically stated.

For value, consider pack size, intended use and how often you're likely to use the product rather than looking at price alone. A well-chosen face moisturiser for men or unisex moisturiser used consistently can offer more practical value than several specialist products that don't suit your routine. Multi-purpose products can also be a sensible option when their stated uses match what you need.