Best guide to men’s skincare routine: From how to apply sunscreens to benefits of moisturisers, more

Men's skincare tips: One of the most common mistakes is using harsh foaming or antibacterial cleansers in the hope of staying “oil-free” (Image: Pexels)

• Men's skin needs gentle cleansing, daily moisturising, and regular sunscreen use
• Avoid harsh scrubs, alcohol-based products, and aggressive shaving routines
• Sweat and pollution can weaken skin; post-shave and barrier care are essential

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For a long time, men’s skincare was limited to a quick splash of water, a bar of soap, and maybe an aftershave sting that was mistaken for “working”.  As work hours stretch longer, travel becomes frequent, and pollution becomes unavoidable, men’s skin is under constant stress. A few thoughtful steps can go a long way and help in quietly improving not just how skin looks, but how it holds up over time.

Most men don’t think about their skin until it starts misbehaving, says Dr Priyanka Sharma, Co-founder and Chief Dermatologist at V6 Clinics. She explains, “Men’s skin is biologically distinct, it is average 20–25 percent thicker than women’s, produces more sebum under androgen influence, and is subjected to repeated mechanical trauma from shaving. Combined with long work hours, frequent travel, pollution exposure, and inconsistent skincare habits, these factors gradually weaken the skin barrier. Clinically, this leads to inflammation, breakouts, uneven texture, and accelerated visible aging rather than isolated cosmetic concerns.”

Cleanse with intent, not aggression

A gentle, low-pH cleanser used morning and evening is enough to remove excess oil, sweat, and pollution without weakening the skin barrier. Men’s skin is oilier but that doesn’t mean it needs to be stripped. One of the most common mistakes is using harsh foaming or antibacterial cleansers in the hope of staying “oil-free.” These disrupt the skin’s natural pH, damage the acid mantle, and often lead to irritation and post-shave sensitivity.

Also read | 5 simple basic skincare tips every man should follow 

Moisturise daily

Oily skinis often dehydrated skin in disguise. When the skin lacks water, it compensates by producing even more oil. Air travel, AC-heavy environments, and seasonal shifts only make this worse. A lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturiserhelps restore hydration, calm irritation, and regulate oil production. Think of moisturising as maintenance, not indulgence.

Use sunscreen every morning

Sun damage is cumulative and frequently underestimated. Many men assume sunscreen is only for beach days, but UV exposure happens during daily commutes, outdoor meetings, and even through windows. A broad-spectrum sunscreen applied every morning protects against premature ageing, pigmentation, and long-term skin cancer risk. Face, neck, ears, and even the scalp deserve attention.

Also read | Best skincare ingredients every man must have on his grooming shelf

Manage sweat and occlusion smartly

Sweat combined with tight collars, helmets, or caps creates the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. This often leads to acne mechanica and folliculitis around the face, scalp, and neck. Cleansing after heavy sweating and using barrier-supportive products can prevent recurring inflammation and discomfort.

Don’t use harsh scrubs or alcohol-heavy products

Physical scrubs and alcohol-based products cause micro-damage, increase water loss, and make skin more reactive over time. Gentle exfoliation should be infrequent and chemical, not abrasive.

Don’t ignore shaving care

Shaving removes more than hair and it disrupts the skin’s protective layer. Skipping post-shave care increases the risk of ingrown hairs, pigmentation, and chronic irritation. A calming, fragrance-free aftercare product helps skin recover and stay resilient.

FAQs on Men's Skincare Routine

What are the essentials of a men's skincare routine?

A men's skincare routine should include gentle cleansing, daily moisturising, and using sunscreen every morning. These steps help maintain healthy skin, prevent irritation, and protect against damage.

Why is cleansing important for men's skin?

Cleansing removes excess oil, sweat, and pollution without damaging the skin barrier. Using a gentle, low-pH cleanser morning and evening prevents irritation and maintains natural skin pH.

How can men prevent skin dehydration?

Oily skin can be dehydrated. Using a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturiser daily helps restore hydration, calm irritation, and regulate oil production. Moisturising is essential for maintaining healthy skin.

Why should men use sunscreen daily?

Sun damage occurs during daily activities, not just at the beach. Applying broad-spectrum sunscreen every morning protects against premature ageing, pigmentation, and reduces skin cancer risk. Include the face, neck, ears, and scalp.

How can men avoid skin damage from shaving?

Shaving disrupts the skin’s protective layer. Using a calming, fragrance-free post-shave product reduces the risk of ingrown hairs, pigmentation, and irritation, helping the skin recover and stay resilient.

Disclaimer: This article only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific diagnosis.