“Men’s skincare is not about pampering or vanity, it’s about taking care of one’s health and well-being. The skin is the body’s largest organ, and neglecting it can lead to a range of issues, from premature aging to skin cancer. By adopting a simple, effective skincare routine, men can protect their skin, enhance their appearance, and feel more confident and prepared to take on the day.”

– Dr Anthony Rossi

While skincare and men may seem like two words that just don’t go together, the importance of skincare for men cannot be over-emphasised. Although it may seem like an inconvenience or an unmacho thing to have to do, proper skin care is essential for your skin’s health. Good skin enhances your confidence and lends itself to aging well. Here’s what all men need to know to create a simple yet effective skincare routine.

Young skateboarder with clear skin enjoying outdoor activity after customised skin care at a medical aesthetic clinic and beauty clinic Singapore

Your Basic Skin Care Routine should comprise these essential steps:

  1. Cleanse: Use a gentle cleanser (pH balanced) to remove dirt, oil and impurities.
  2. Exfoliate: Exfoliate 2-3 times a week to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. A chemical exfoliant (AHAs and BHAs) is preferred over a physical exfoliant (scrubs and loofahs).
  3. Tone: Use a hydrating toner to balance skin pH and tighten pores (this step is optional).
  4. Moisturize: Apply a moisturizer to hydrate and protect the skin from the elements.
  5. Protect: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) daily. The higher the SPF, the better the protection, and the longer you can stay out in the sun before you start to tan/ burn.

Common Skin Concerns

  • Acne: Caused by clogged pores, bacteria and inflammation. Use products containing salicylic acid, clindamycin or adapalene.
  • Dry skin: Caused by dehydration, harsh products or environmental factors. Use gentle, hydrating products and avoid hot showers.
  • Ingrown hairs: Caused by improper shaving techniques, curly hair or clogged pores. Exfoliate gently and consider products containing salicylic acid or tea tree.
Close‑up of a man wiping his beard with a cotton pad at a medical skin aesthetic clinic Singapore for personal skincare and aesthetic treatments near me Dempsey

Know Your Skin's Needs

Before diving into specific products and ingredients, it is important to assess what your skin is prone to and what your skin may be sensitive to. Whether you are up against excess sebum production, a slowdown of oil produced by sebaceous glands, or other signs of aging, identifying your skin's needs will guide your product selection and daily routine.

Cleansing with Precision

A gentle yet effective cleanser is the most important step in any skincare routine. Look for products containing ingredients like salicylic acid, glycolic acid or benzoyl peroxide if you have acne-prone or oily skin, to unclog pores, control excess oil production, and prevent future breakouts. Do use these products only at night if you shave regularly in the morning. Remember to always shave in the direction of hair growth. For dry or sensitive skin, opt for cleansers with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin or ceramides to maintain moisture balance and keep your skin barrier intact.

Hydration is Key

Regardless of your skin type, healthy and resilient skin needs hydration. Moisturizers formulated with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, squalene or shea butter help to lock in moisture and strengthen your skin's natural barrier. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, look for lightweight, oil-free moisturizers that won't clog your pores or exacerbate any breakouts.

Arresting Signs of Aging

As we all age, our skin gradually loses elasticity and firmness, leading to the formation of wrinkles and fine lines, although it is true that men age at a much slower rate than women. To address some of these early concerns, it is a good idea to incorporate anti-aging ingredients like retinol, vitamin C and peptides into your skincare routine.

Retinol, a derivative of vitamin A, stimulates collagen production and promotes cell turnover, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and improving skin texture over time. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that brightens the skin, evens out its tone, and protects against environmental damage. It also enhances your UV protection when applied with a sunscreen. Peptides help boost collagen synthesis and enhance skin firmness and elasticity.

Sun Protection

One of the most critical steps in any skincare routine is sun protection. Exposure to harmful UV rays not only accelerates skin aging but also increases the risk of skin cancer. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen (one that protects against UVA and UVB rays) with Sun Protection Factor (SPF) 30 or higher and apply it generously to all exposed areas of skin, including your face, neck and ears. Look for sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which provide physical (rather than chemical) protection against UV radiation.

Targeted Treatments

In addition to the core products mentioned above, you may choose to incorporate targeted treatments to address specific skincare concerns. For example, if you struggle with dark spots or hyperpigmentation, look for products containing ingredients like niacinamide, kojic acid, alpha arbutin, or hydroquinone to fade discoloration and even out your skin tone. If you battle stubborn acne, consider using spot treatments containing sulphur, tea tree oil, or benzoyl peroxide to reduce inflammation and promote healing.

Effective skincare is not about following trends or using the latest fad ingredient – it is more about understanding your skin's unique needs and selecting the right ingredients to address them. By incorporating key ingredients like salicylic acid, retinol, vitamin C, and sunscreen into your routine, you can achieve healthier, more radiant skin that reflects your vibrancy and vitality. Remember that commitment and consistency are key, so stick to your skincare routine diligently and reap the rewards of a well-cared-for, rejuvenated complexion.