Most men do not want a ten-step routine. The good news is that you do not need one. A simple, consistent men's skincare routine with three basic steps does more for your skin than a shelf full of products used occasionally.
Why men's skin needs care too
- Men's skin is usually thicker and oilier, which can mean more clogged pores and acne.
- Daily shaving irritates the skin and can cause bumps and ingrown hairs.
- Outdoor commuting in Indian sun leads to tanning, pigmentation and early ageing.
The basic morning routine
- Cleanser: a gentle gel or foaming face wash. Use a salicylic acid cleanser if you are oily or acne-prone.
- Moisturiser: a light, oil-free gel. Oily skin still needs hydration, or it produces even more oil.
- Sunscreen: SPF 30 to 50, PA+++ or higher, every single day. See our sunscreen guide for Indian skin.
The night routine
- Cleanse to remove sweat, sunscreen and pollution.
- Apply a treatment product if you need one, such as a prescribed acne cream or a niacinamide serum.
- Finish with a light moisturiser.
Shaving and beard care
- Shave after a warm shower, with the grain, using a sharp blade and a shaving gel.
- Rinse with cool water and apply a fragrance-free moisturiser.
- For a beard, wash it with your face wash and use a light beard oil on the hair, not thick oil on the skin.
- Tired of daily shaving or uneven beard lines? Read about laser beard shaping for men.
Common mistakes men make
- Washing the face with body soap, which strips the skin barrier
- Skipping sunscreen because "men don't need it"
- Scrubbing hard to remove tan or oil
- Squeezing pimples, which leaves dark marks and scars
- Using random creams bought from a pharmacy without a diagnosis
Common skin concerns in men
Acne and oily skin: often responds to the right cleanser and prescription care. See adult acne causes.
Tanning and dark spots: sunscreen plus safe tan removal treatments.
Hair fall: early treatment saves the most hair. Read hair fall in men.
When to see a dermatologist
If acne, pigmentation, razor bumps or hair fall are not improving with a basic routine, a dermatologist can find the cause and set a plan that fits a busy lifestyle. Book at our skin clinic in Ahmedabad.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best skincare routine for men? +
A simple routine works best: a gentle cleanser, a light moisturiser and daily sunscreen in the morning, and cleansing plus moisturiser at night.
Do men really need sunscreen? +
Yes. Sun exposure causes tanning, pigmentation and early ageing in men just as in women. Daily SPF 30 to 50 is the most effective anti-ageing step.
How can men reduce oily skin? +
Use a salicylic acid or gel cleanser twice a day, a light oil-free moisturiser and avoid harsh scrubbing, which can increase oil production.
Dr. Dhwani Shah (Vakta)
MBBS, DDVL · Consultant Dermatologist & Aesthetic Physician, Derma Wellness & Aesthetic Clinic, Ahmedabad · 20+ years of experience
This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for a medical consultation. Treatment suitability, sessions and results vary from person to person. Book a consultation for advice specific to your skin.
