How Do I Choose the Best Skin Care Products for Men?

The most important skin care products for men are a good cleanser, some type of exfoliator and a moisturizer containing a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15. Additionally, you might wish to invest in a spot treatment product to use on stubborn acne blemishes, a moisturizing shave gel or lotion and a lip balm that also has an SPF of 15 or higher. Choosing the best skin care products for men also depends on your individual skin type, so you should note the specific needs of your skin before deciding which incarnations of these products to employ.

First of all, you absolutely need a cleanser to remove dirt and oil from the surface of your skin. Using the same bar soap you use for your body is not recommended, because it can be excessively drying when used on delicate facial skin. Instead, look for a cream, gel or foaming cleanser that is specially formulated for the face. If you have dry skin, you should consider selecting a rich, creamy, opaque formula that will help restore moisture. By contrast, if you have oily skin that is prone to acne breakouts, look for a clear gel or a foaming cleanser that will help absorb any excess oil.

Some men might not want to add an extra step to their routines, but an exfoliator is actually one of the most important skin care products for men. Look for basic exfoliating scrubs that contain small particles to help slough away dead skin cells and clear away dirt and oil from deep within the pores. Using this product about twice a week will smooth the skin and help prevent acne blemishes by clearing out blocked pores. Exfoliators have an additional benefit for men as well; clearing away dead skin cells from around hair follicles can help you achieve a cleaner, closer shave.

The third of the most important skin care products for men is a moisturizer. Even if you have oily skin, you need a lightweight product to give your skin enough moisture to prevent it from drying out and overcompensating by producing even more oil. If your skin is dry and you do not usually break out, you can choose a thicker, richer product and use it a bit more liberally. Most importantly, make sure that you choose a moisturizer that contains an SPF of at least 15 — or higher if you are outside regularly. Use it every day to protect skin from sun damage and to prevent early signs of aging.

Some additional skin care products for men to consider are an acne spot treatment, shave gel and lip balm. If you do not usually have enough blemishes to warrant a special acne cleanser, try a spot treatment to single out the occasional blemish without treating your entire face. Shaving can take a serious toll, so try to find a shave gel or lotion that contains moisturizing ingredients such as vitamin E or aloe to help protect your skin. Lip balms also are important, but make sure to avoid products that contain waxes or menthol, and to always choose a formula with a minimum SPF of 15.