A simple skincare routine for men

I’ve been asked by friends to help them develop a skincare plan for the man in their lives. (I’d be happy to help my male friends do so as well, but to date, no takers).

Technically speaking, a skincare plan for men would involve the same basics as any good skin care routine for women:

• Cleanse with a gentle, non-soap based cleanser
• Exfoliate with either an alpha hydroxy acid or retinoid (retinol or prescription retinoid). But not directly after shaving as this combination would be too harsh and irritating. Shave in the morning – exfoliate at night.
• Moisturize with a product suited to skin type
• Protect from the sun with a broad spectrum UVA/UVB blocker.

When said man involved hears about this routine, eyes glaze over and it’s back to Aqua Velva.

The challenge?

My partner, in the spirit of simplicity, has asked me to narrow it down to just one product (apart from anything to do with shaving)…

Men who shave are lucky because the act of shaving exfoliates the skin considerably so if there is one step that can be missed, this is it. Cleansing with soap as many men do, can be very drying in susceptible individuals, so a gentle cleanser should really be considered. Something like Reversa 3 in 1 Cleansing Gel is a great idea – the product not only cleanses but also gently moisturizes.

Lastly, sun awareness necessitates the use of a good UVA/UVB sunscreen. A combination product like Hydraphase UV SPF 30 simplifies the routine considerably by providing moisture for normal/dry skin while also protecting with a great UV filtering system. Oilier skin types may wish to skip the moisturizer and opt for sunscreen alone – Anthelios XL Fluide Extreme SPF 50+ or Anthelios Lait SPF 45 are good options.

The bottom line?

Though the benefits of a good cleanser and exfoliating agent can’t be argued, if there is one product I’d choose as essential it would have to be sunscreen. Lucky for me, I get to sneak in a moisturizer too, with Hydraphase UV SPF 30.