Skincare for men: A step-by-step guide for healthy skin

February 11, 2026

Verified by :
Dr. Naren Prakash
MBBS, MD - Dermatology - 13+ Years Exp
Updated on :
February 11, 2026

Why is skincare for men important?

It is no secret that taking care of one's skin is essential. And yet, when it comes to men, skincare is often overlooked. However, more men are now taking an active interest in skincare. Developing a skincare routine can help one feel rejuvenated and more confident.

It is important for men of all ages to have an effective skincare routine to keep their skin feeling healthy and looking its best. Good skincare helps reduce the risk of skin conditions, and premature ageing and maintain a healthy complexion. Here is a step-by-step guide to the best skincare for men.

Benefits of skincare for men

To begin with, following a regular skincare routine can help to prevent and reduce the appearance of skin conditions such as acne, rosacea, or even, razor burns. It can further, help to reduce the signs of ageing, such as wrinkles and sunspots.

Finally, a well-developed skincare routine can help to maintain the natural pH balance and protective barrier of the skin, leading to improved overall skin health.

Determining skin types

The first step towards developing a skincare routine is to identify the skin type specific to an individual. If divided broadly, there are mainly three skin types: oily, dry, and combination.

Oily skin

Oily skin is usually characterized by an excess of sebum, which is the body's natural oil. This type of skin may be more susceptible to blemishes, so it is important to use products that are specifically designed for oily skin types. Choosing oil-free cleansers and moisturizers may be helpful, in this regard.

Dry skin

Contrary to oily skin, dry skin type is characterized by a lack of sebum and is more prone to flaking and sensitivity. Using gentle cleansers and moisturizers that are solely formulated for dry skin and avoiding products that contain harsh chemicals and fragrances can be beneficial for this skin type.

Combination skin

Combination skin refers to a mix of both oily and dry skin and is arguably the most common skin type. It is important to use a combination of products that are designed for both oily and dry skin to make the perfect skincare routine for this skin type.

Best skin care products for men

After identifying the skin type, one must choose the right products for a skincare routine. Here are the basic categories of the best skin care products for men to get started with:

Cleansers

Cleansers are the first step in any skincare routine and are essential for removing dirt, oil, and makeup. Cleansers should always be chosen according to the specified skin type, such as gel cleansers for oily skin types or cream cleansers for dry skin types.

Exfoliants

Exfoliating regularly can help remove dead skin cells on the surface and reveal brighter, smoother skin underneath. There are several options to choose from when it comes to exfoliants, be it a gentle exfoliating scrub or a chemical peel. Ultimately, it depends on what works best for one's skin.

Toners

Toners help to restore the skin’s natural pH balance and remove any remaining dirt and oil.

Moisturizers

Moisturizers are essential for all skin types and help to keep the skin hydrated. Moisturizers available in the market come in various tones and textures; some are gel-based while others are water-based. In addition to moisturizers, depending on the skin's needs, many after their 30s may be recommended to use an anti-ageing cream for men or an anti-ageing peel facial.

Sunscreens

Sunscreen is essential for all skin types and should be used every day, even during the winter months or on a cloudy day. Choosing a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 is essential and making sure to reapply every two hours is even more important.

Skincare routine for men

The morning routine

One must start by cleaning one's face with a gentle cleanser. Follow up with a toner and moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated. Finally, apply sunscreen to protect the skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays.

The night routine

Before going to bed, one must clean the face with a regular cleanser. Follow it up with an exfoliant to remove dead skin cells. Then, apply a toner and moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated throughout the night.

Get a personalised skincare routine from UnCover

To sum it up, skincare for men is as essential as it is for women. Apart from shaving and waxing, having a regular skincare routine in place might be a game-changer in one's grooming journey. Get started today and for a more personalised care routine from a qualified professional, visit UnCover today!

FAQs

1.What should be included in a skincare routine for men?

Men should aim to cleanse, moisturise, and protect their skin every day. A gentle cleanser should be used to remove dirt and bacteria, followed by a moisturiser to keep the skin hydrated and healthy. Finally, sun protection is essential to prevent skin damage.

2. What kind of products should men use for skincare?

Men should look for products that are specifically formulated for their skin type, whether it is oily, dry, or combination. Look out for products that are alcohol-free, fragrance-free, and non-comedogenic (products that do not clog pores).

3. How often should men exfoliate their skin?

Deeply exfoliating the skin once or twice a week is ideal. This helps to remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and promote cell turnover.

4. What are the benefits of using a face mask?

Face masks can help to hydrate and nourish the skin, as well as reduce the appearance of pores, and detoxify the skin.

5. How can men prevent skin damage from shaving?

Using a sharp, clean razor and shaving in the direction of hair growth can help prevent damage. After shaving, applying a moisturizer or aftershave balm can help soothe the skin and protect against irritation.

Frequently Asked Questions

At what age should men start a skincare routine?

Men should start a basic skincare routine (cleanser + moisturiser + sunscreen) by their late teens or early 20s. Adding anti-aging products like retinol and vitamin C serums by age 25–30 helps prevent premature wrinkles and sun damage. It's never too late to start — dermatologists at Uncover Clinics help men of all ages build effective skincare routines.

Is HydraFacial good for men's skin?

Yes, HydraFacial is excellent for men's skin. It deeply cleanses pores, removes blackheads, exfoliates dead skin, and hydrates — all in one 30-minute session with zero downtime. It's particularly beneficial for men dealing with oiliness, enlarged pores, dullness, or post-shave irritation. Uncover Clinics in Gurgaon and Delhi offers HydraFacial customised for men's thicker skin.

What causes acne in men and how to treat it?

Acne in men is primarily caused by excess sebum production driven by higher testosterone levels, clogged pores, bacteria, stress, and poor skincare habits. Treatment includes salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide cleansers, retinoid creams, and non-comedogenic moisturisers. Persistent or cystic acne should be treated by a dermatologist at Uncover Clinics with prescription medications or advanced facials.

Which face wash is best for men with oily skin?

Men with oily skin should use a gel-based or foam face wash containing salicylic acid, niacinamide, or tea tree oil. These ingredients control excess sebum, unclog pores, and prevent acne. Avoid soap-based cleansers that strip the skin and trigger rebound oiliness. Dermatologists at Uncover Clinics can recommend medical-grade cleansers tailored to your skin type.

How can men reduce dark spots and pigmentation?

Men can reduce dark spots by using vitamin C serum in the morning, niacinamide-based moisturisers, chemical exfoliants (AHA/BHA) 2–3 times a week, and SPF 50 sunscreen daily. For stubborn pigmentation, professional treatments like laser toning, chemical peels, and microneedling at Uncover Clinics deliver faster and more noticeable results.

Do men need sunscreen every day?

Yes, sunscreen is essential for men every day — even on cloudy days and indoors near windows. UV exposure causes premature aging, dark spots, uneven skin tone, and increases skin cancer risk. Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30–50 sunscreen. Men with facial hair should opt for lightweight, non-greasy formulations. Uncover Clinics recommends dermatologist-tested sunscreens for Indian men.

What is the best skincare routine for men?

A basic men's skincare routine includes 4 steps: (1) Cleanser — use a gentle face wash suited to your skin type twice daily, (2) Toner — apply an alcohol-free toner to balance skin pH, (3) Moisturiser — use a lightweight, non-greasy moisturiser with SPF 30+ during the day, (4) Sunscreen — apply broad-spectrum SPF 50 before stepping out. For personalised routines, consult dermatologists at Uncover Clinics in Gurgaon and Delhi.

Is it okay for men to use women's skincare products?

Yes, men can use women's skincare products — the active ingredients work the same regardless of gender. However, men's skin tends to be 20–25% thicker, oilier, and more prone to large pores, so lighter, oil-free formulations often work better. Products marketed for men are typically fragrance-adjusted and have lighter textures. Uncover Clinics recommends products based on skin type, not gender.

How can men reduce dark spots and pigmentation?

Men can reduce dark spots by using vitamin C serum (morning), niacinamide-based products, chemical exfoliants (AHA/BHA), and strict daily sunscreen use. For stubborn pigmentation, professional treatments like laser toning, chemical peels, and microneedling at Uncover Clinics deliver faster results. Avoiding sun exposure without SPF is the most critical step in preventing further darkening.

What are the best anti-aging treatments for men?

The best anti-aging treatments for men include topical retinoids, vitamin C serums, hyaluronic acid moisturisers, Botox (wrinkle relaxers) for forehead lines and crow's feet, dermal fillers for nasolabial folds, HydraFacials for skin rejuvenation, and laser toning for pigmentation. Uncover Clinics offers discreet, results-driven anti-aging treatments specifically designed for men.

At what age should men start a skincare routine?

Men should start a basic skincare routine (cleanser + moisturiser + sunscreen) from their late teens or early 20s. Adding anti-aging products like retinol and vitamin C serums is recommended from age 25–30. Early skincare prevents premature aging, acne scars, and pigmentation issues. Dermatologists at Uncover Clinics in Gurgaon offer personalised skin assessments for men of all ages.

Do men need sunscreen every day?

Yes, men absolutely need sunscreen every day, regardless of skin tone or weather. UV exposure causes premature aging, dark spots, and increases skin cancer risk. Indian men are especially prone to hyperpigmentation from sun damage. Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30–50 sunscreen and reapply every 2–3 hours when outdoors. This is the single most important anti-aging step for men.

Which face wash is best for men with oily skin?

Men with oily skin should use a face wash containing salicylic acid, niacinamide, or glycolic acid to control excess sebum and prevent acne. Gel-based or foam cleansers work better than cream-based ones for oily skin. Avoid harsh, soap-based face washes as they strip natural oils and trigger rebound oiliness. Dermatologists at Uncover Clinics can recommend the right cleanser for your skin type.

What is the best skincare routine for men?

The best skincare routine for men includes 4 simple steps: (1) Cleanser — use a gentle face wash suited to your skin type twice daily, (2) Toner — apply an alcohol-free toner to balance pH, (3) Moisturiser — use a lightweight, non-greasy moisturiser with SPF 30+ in the morning, (4) Sunscreen — apply broad-spectrum sunscreen daily even on cloudy days. At night, add a retinol serum for anti-aging benefits.