Skincare for Him: A Simple and Effective Regimen
When it comes to skincare, men often find themselves unsure of where to start, especially with the overwhelming number of products available. The good news is that skincare doesn't need to be complicated to be effective. With a simple routine that targets the essentials, men can love their skin without the hassle.
Here’s a breakdown of an easy, basic skincare plan that any man can follow:
1. Make Sure it’s Medical Grade
Medical grade skincare is backed by science. For the best results, it's essential to use medical-grade versus drugstore brands. Medical grade products contain higher concentrations of active ingredients that are scientifically proven to deliver effective results. Unlike over-the-counter options, they are recommended by dermatologists like Dr. Sutton for treating specific skin concerns like acne, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation.
Additionally, medical-grade skincare penetrates deeper into the skin for more profound, long-lasting improvements. If you're committed to achieving healthier, more radiant skin, these products are a must for targeted and effective care.
2. Cleansing: The Foundation of Skincare
The first and most essential step in any skincare routine is cleansing. Cleansing removes dirt, oil, sweat, and impurities from the skin, ensuring a fresh base for the rest of your routine.
Product Recommendation: Look for a gentle facial cleanser that suits your skin type (dry, oily, combination). For most men, a basic, non-drying cleanser works well, such as our patient favourite the Gentle Cleanser from ZO Skin Health.
How to Use: Apply a small amount of cleanser to damp skin. Massage gently in circular motions, focusing on areas where oil tends to build up, like the forehead, nose, and chin (the T-zone). Rinse with lukewarm water.
3. Moisturizing: Keep Your Skin Hydrated
Moisturizing is often overlooked but is crucial for keeping your skin soft, smooth, and hydrated. A moisturizer helps lock in moisture, maintaining a healthy skin barrier and preventing dryness or irritation.
Product Recommendation: Choose a lightweight, non-comedogenic (won't clog pores) moisturizer. If you have oily skin, opt for a gel-based formula; for dry skin, choose a cream-based moisturizer. Dr. Sutton’s pick for him? The SkinBetter TRIO moisturizer.
How to Use: After cleansing, apply a small amount of moisturizer to your face and neck. Massage it in using upward circular motions to promote circulation and ensure even coverage.
4. Sunscreen: Protection is Key
Sunscreen is arguably the most important step in any skincare regimen, yet it's often the most neglected. Sun exposure is one of the leading causes of premature aging, dark spots, and skin cancer. Applying sunscreen every day is essential, even on cloudy days or when you’re indoors.
Product Recommendation: Look for a broad-spectrum SPF of at LEAST 30. Choose a formula that feels comfortable on your skin—many sunscreens for men are lightweight and non-greasy. At West Derm, we love the Elta MD line, and our patients love it too.
How to Use: Apply sunscreen generously to your face and any other exposed areas of skin. Reapply every 2 hours if you’re spending time outdoors.
5. Optional: Exfoliate Once or Twice a Week
Exfoliating helps to remove dead skin cells, leaving your skin looking smoother and brighter. While it’s not necessary to exfoliate daily, doing it once or twice a week can help keep your skin looking fresh and prevent clogged pores. We recommend exfoliating at night.
Product Recommendation: Hands down the most popular exfoliation product we sell is the ZO Exfoliating Polish.
How to Use: After cleansing, apply the exfoliator to damp skin, massaging gently in circular motions. Avoid scrubbing too harshly, as this can irritate the skin. Rinse with warm water, pat to dry, then apply your moisturizer.
Putting It All Together: The Basic Skincare Routine
Here’s how a basic routine might look for him:
Morning:
Cleanse (twice) with a gentle facial cleanser.
Apply moisturizer.
Finish with sunscreen.
Evening:
Cleanse (twice) to remove dirt and oil from the day.
Apply moisturizer to keep skin hydrated overnight.
If needed, apply a gentle exfoliator once or twice a week.
A basic medical grade skincare regimen that includes cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection is the foundation of healthy, youthful skin. This simple routine is quick, effective, and doesn’t require a lot of time or complicated products. By sticking to these essentials, you can maintain clear, smooth skin and reduce the risk of premature aging or skin issues.
Remember, consistency is key. As you make skincare a daily habit, your skin will love you back!
If you're looking for a customized skincare routine or have specific concerns, feel free to reach out for personalized recommendations by booking your consultation with Dermatologist Dr. Allison Sutton, your highest authority in skin.