7 Essential Skincare Tips for Men's Grooming Routine

100 ml

Hyphen

Moisturizing Creamy Cleanser

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₹ 269

Let's be real—skincare isn't just for the lads anymore. Men's grooming has gone from a quick splash of water to a proper routine that actually works. If you've been wondering whether facial care for men is worth the effort, the answer is a solid yes. Your skin deals with shaving, pollution, and daily stress, so it deserves some proper attention. These seven essential tips will help you build a male skincare routine that fits your lifestyle without turning it into a complicated science experiment.

Understanding Men's Skin Types

Before diving into products, you need to know what you're working with. Men's skin types vary just like anyone else's, and using the wrong products can leave you worse off than when you started. Your skin type determines everything from which face wash works best to how often you should moisturise.

Oily Skin

If your face looks like it could fry an egg by midday, you've got oily skin. This skin type produces excess sebum, leading to shine and potential breakouts. The upside? You'll age slower than your mates with dry skin.

Dry Skin

Dry skin feels tight, especially after washing, and might flake or look dull. It's common in colder climates or if you're constantly in air-conditioned spaces. This skin type needs extra hydration to stay comfortable.

Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin reacts to almost everything—products, weather, even stress. You'll notice redness, burning, or stinging with new products. Gentle, fragrance-free options are your best bet.

Combination Skin

Combination skin is like having two different faces—oily in the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin) and normal to dry everywhere else. It's the most common skin type and requires a balanced approach.

Essential Tip 1: Cleanse Daily with the Right Face Wash

Your regular body soap isn't doing your face any favours. Men's face wash needs to tackle oil, dirt, and daily grime without stripping your skin bare. A proper cleanser removes impurities while keeping your skin's natural barrier intact. Cleanse twice daily—morning and night—to keep your skin fresh and ready for whatever comes next.

Best Face Wash Options for Men

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The Man Company

Glow Pro Face Scrub

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Gel cleansers work brilliantly for oily skin, whilst cream cleansers suit dry skin better. If you've got sensitive skin, look for soap-free, gentle formulas. Combination skin? Try a balanced cleanser that won't overdry or over-moisturise different areas.

Essential Tip 2: Exfoliate Regularly

Exfoliation removes dead skin cells that make your face look dull and can clog pores. Men's skin is thicker than women's, so it can handle regular exfoliation—usually 2-3 times per week. This step helps prevent ingrown hairs from shaving and keeps your skin smooth and fresh.

Choosing the Right Exfoliator

Physical scrubs work well for most men, but if you have sensitive skin, try chemical exfoliants with salicylic acid or glycolic acid. They're gentler but just as effective at clearing away dead skin cells.

Essential Tip 3: Moisturise for Hydration and Protection

Think moisturising is optional? Think again. Even oily skin needs hydration to stay balanced. The best moisturiser for men should absorb quickly without leaving a greasy residue. Moisturising twice daily helps maintain your skin's barrier function and prevents premature ageing.

Top Moisturisers for Men

Lightweight, oil-free moisturisers work well for oily skin. Dry skin needs richer formulas with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides. Look for non-comedogenic options that won't clog your pores.

Essential Tip 4: Sun Protection is Non-Negotiable

Sunscreen isn't just for beach days—it's a daily essential. UV damage causes premature ageing, dark spots, and increases skin cancer risk. Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every morning, even when it's cloudy. Your future self will thank you.

Choosing the Right Sunscreen for Men

Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide work well for sensitive skin. Chemical sunscreens absorb faster but might irritate some people. Many moisturisers now include SPF, making your routine simpler.

Essential Tip 5: Target Specific Skin Concerns

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Carlton London

Men Face Scrub + Mask

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Once you've got the basics down, you can tackle specific issues like acne, dark spots, or fine lines. Men's acne treatment often requires stronger formulations due to thicker skin and higher oil production. Anti-aging products for men focus on prevention and maintaining healthy skin rather than dramatic transformations.

Acne Treatment for Men

Salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide are your go-to ingredients for breakouts. Start with lower concentrations to avoid irritation. Spot treatments work well for occasional pimples, whilst all-over treatments help prevent future breakouts.

Anti-Aging Products for Men

Retinol is the gold standard for anti-ageing, but start slowly to build tolerance. Vitamin C serums help with brightness and protection. Remember, consistency matters more than using every trendy ingredient.

Essential Tip 6: Don't Forget Beard Care

If you're sporting facial hair, beard care is part of your skincare routine. The skin underneath your beard needs attention too—it can get dry, itchy, or even develop acne. Proper beard care keeps both your hair and skin healthy.

Essential Beard Care Products

Beard oil moisturises both hair and skin underneath. Beard balm provides hold and styling. Don't forget to cleanse your beard regularly with a specialised beard wash to prevent buildup and irritation.

Essential Tip 7: Perfect Your Shaving Routine

Shaving tips can make or break your skincare routine. Poor shaving technique leads to irritation, ingrown hairs, and razor burn. A proper shaving routine protects your skin whilst giving you a clean, comfortable shave.

Pre-Shave Preparation

Warm water and a pre-shave oil soften hair and prepare skin. Never shave dry skin—it's a recipe for irritation. Take your time and don't rush through this step.

Post-Shave Care

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Globus Naturals

Men Charcoal Scrub

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Rinse with cool water to close pores, then apply an alcohol-free aftershave balm. This soothes irritation and provides moisture. Skip alcohol-based aftershaves—they're too harsh for daily use.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the basic skincare routine for Indian men?

The basic routine includes cleansing twice daily, moisturising morning and night, and applying sunscreen every morning. Add exfoliation 2-3 times weekly once you're comfortable with the basics.

Do men need to do skin exfoliation?

Yes, men benefit from regular exfoliation. Men's skin is typically thicker and produces more oil, so exfoliating 2-3 times per week helps prevent clogged pores and ingrown hairs.

Do men need a toner?

Toner isn't essential, but it can help balance skin pH and provide extra hydration. If you choose to use one, opt for alcohol-free formulas that won't dry out your skin.

How often should men moisturise their face?

Twice daily—morning and evening. Even men with oily skin need moisture to maintain healthy skin barrier function.

Can men use women's skincare products?

Absolutely. Skincare ingredients work the same regardless of marketing. However, men's products are often formulated for thicker, oilier skin and may be more suitable for most men's needs.

Final Thoughts

Building a solid male skincare routine doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. Start with the basics—cleanse, moisturise, and protect—then add other steps as needed. Remember, consistency beats perfection every time. Your skin will adapt and improve with regular care, so stick with it even when you don't see immediate results. Smytten makes exploring men's grooming products easier than ever. As India's largest product discovery and trial platform, Smytten offers curated trial packs from over 1,500 trusted brands, letting you try products before committing to full sizes. With skincare minis available across all categories, you can discover your perfect routine without the guesswork. Get up to 8 minis for just ₹249, plus enjoy 100% cashback on trial purchases. When you find products that work, buying full-size versions is just a click away. Why settle for maybe when you can Try It All?

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