It’s never too late to start taking care of your skin. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to upgrade your routine, a solid skincare regimen is an investment in your health and confidence. Many guys feel lost when it comes to skincare—like they’re on a never-ending treasure hunt without a map. Here’s the truth: there’s no “final destination.” Skincare is like exercise—it’s about building daily habits that keep you looking and feeling your best.

If you’re ready to step up your game, this guide will walk you through the essential steps and the best products to get started. And if it feels overwhelming, don’t worry—starting with a simple three-step routine puts you ahead of most men already!

Step 1: The Basic Skincare Routine

If you want a no-fuss approach, stick to these three key steps: cleanse, exfoliate, and moisturize. Here’s how:

1. Cleanse Twice a Day

Washing your face removes sweat, bacteria, and dirt that build up overnight and throughout the day. Use a gentle cleanser in the morning and before bed to keep your skin fresh and prevent breakouts.

Top Picks:

• Kiehl’s Calendula Deep Cleansing Foaming Face Wash – £30.50
• Horace Purifying Face Cleanser – £13
• Eve Lom Foaming Cream Cleanser – £50

2. Exfoliate Twice a Week

Exfoliation removes dead skin cells, unclogs pores, and keeps your skin smooth. Choose between a physical scrub or a chemical exfoliant (like salicylic acid for acne-prone skin). Just don’t overdo it—twice a week is enough.

Best Exfoliators:

• Horace Skin-Perfecting Exfoliating Solution – £18
• Avene Gentle Exfoliating Gel – £16.25
• Murad AHA BHA Exfoliating Cleanser – £46

3. Moisturize Morning and Night (With SPF in the Day)

A moisturizer helps lock in hydration and protect your skin’s natural barrier. During the day, use a moisturizer with SPF to guard against UV damage. At night, go for a richer cream to repair and nourish your skin.

Recommended Moisturizers:

• Heath Oil Control Moisturiser – £15
• Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream – £37
• CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF50 – £17

Step 2: Leveling Up Your Routine

Once you’ve nailed the basics, you can add a few extra steps for better results.

1. Hydrating Serums

Serums, especially those with hyaluronic acid, help keep your skin plump and hydrated. Apply after cleansing but before moisturizing.

Best Hydrating Serums:

• CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum – £21
• Kiehl’s Ultra Pure High-Potency Serum – £29
• Horace Vitamin C + Glycolic Acid Serum – £21

2. Eye Creams

The skin around your eyes is delicate and needs extra care. Eye creams help reduce puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines.

Best Eye Creams:

• Horace Moisturizing Eye Cream – £20
• Medik8 Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye 3 – £42
• Murad Retinal ReSculpt Eye Treatment – £92

3. Face Masks

Use a face mask once a week to detox your skin or boost hydration. Clay and charcoal masks are great for oily skin, while hydrating masks work well for dry or tired skin.

Top Face Masks:

• Kiehl’s Avocado Nourishing Hydration Mask – £40
• Soho Skin Detox Face Mask – £60
• Eve Lom Rescue Mask – £68

4. Spot Treatments

For acne-prone skin, spot treatments with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide help reduce breakouts and fade acne scars.

Best Spot Treatments:

• Oskia D-Spot Clearing Blemish Treatment – £28
• Hero Might Patches (Invisible Pimple Patches) – £14.99

5. Toners

If you have oily skin, a toner can help control shine and balance your skin’s pH. Apply after cleansing but before serums and moisturizers.

Best Toners:

• Dr. Barbara Sturm Balancing Toner – £13
• Aesop Immaculate Facial Tonic – £39
• Horace Tonic Lotion – £15

Step 3: Advanced Skincare Ingredients

If you’re serious about skincare, consider adding targeted treatments like retinol, vitamin C, and niacinamide.

1. Retinol & Bakuchiol (For Anti-Aging & Acne)

Retinol (a form of Vitamin A) reduces wrinkles, boosts collagen, and prevents breakouts. Bakuchiol is a gentler alternative.

Best Retinol Products:

• CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum – £21
• Eve Lom Radiance Repair Retinol Serum – £145

2. Vitamin C (For Brightness & Dark Spots)

Vitamin C serums help even skin tone, reduce hyperpigmentation, and boost radiance.

Top Vitamin C Serums:

• Aesop Lucent Vitamin C Facial Concentrate – £87
• Kiehl’s Powerful Vitamin C Eye Serum – £47
• Garnier Vitamin C Brightening Serum – £13

3. Niacinamide (For Smoother, Healthier Skin)

Niacinamide calms redness, improves texture, and controls oil production. Look for it in serums and moisturizers.

Final Thoughts: Keep It Simple

The best skincare routine is one you can stick to. Start with the basics (cleanse, exfoliate, moisturize), then gradually introduce serums, masks, and treatments based on your skin’s needs. And don’t forget SPF every morning—your future self will thank you.

With the right products and consistency, you’ll see noticeable improvements. Your skin doesn’t have to be perfect—but taking care of it will make you look and feel your best!