Men's Skincare
Quick answer: a gel face wash morning and evening, a light moisturiser, and SPF 30–50 every morning. That's the whole routine. Done consistently, it outperforms any elaborate regimen done occasionally — and it covers the two things UK men's skin suffers most from: sun damage and blocked pores from sweat.
Why bar soap is sabotaging your face
Body soap and shower gel are formulated at a pH that strips facial skin, leaving it tight, flaky and — counterintuitively — oilier as it overcorrects. Swapping to an actual facial cleanser is the single highest-impact change most men can make. A simple gel like those in the Cetaphil range takes the same 30 seconds in the shower.
The 2-minute routine
- Morning: face wash → light moisturiser → SPF. (Moisturiser-plus-SPF hybrids work if you genuinely won't do two steps — apply generously.)
- Evening: face wash → moisturiser. Especially after sport — dried sweat is a prime cause of body and facial breakouts.
Why SPF is the non-negotiable step
Men are statistically worse at daily sun protection while spending more time outdoors for work and sport — and UK skin-cancer guidance is blunt about the consequences. Daily SPF also happens to be the most effective "anti-ageing product" that exists. Oil-free gel formats from the SPF collection don't feel like sunscreen, which is the main reason men skip it.
Common problems, quick fixes
- Shaving irritation + summer sweat: shave after showering, moisturise straight afterwards; a fragrance-light pick from the sensitive skin collection calms things down.
- Oily by lunchtime: don't wash more — blot, and switch your moisturiser to a gel.
- Blackheads: a salicylic acid face wash from the breakouts collection used a few times a week.
When you're ready for step four
If ageing or uneven tone starts to bother you, a night-time retinol is the evidence-backed upgrade — see the retinoid collection or take the free online consultation and get told exactly what (if anything) to add.
Educational content only — not medical advice. Get new or changing moles checked by your GP.
Dr. Tanveer Ahmed
MBBS/FCPS · Founder & Clinical Director, Celsia Skin
MBBS/FCPS · Founder & Clinical Director, Celsia Skin
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Frequently asked questions
What is a good skincare routine for men?
Three products: gel face wash morning and evening, light moisturiser, and SPF 30–50 every morning. Consistency matters far more than extra steps.
Do men really need to wear SPF every day?
Yes — men spend more time outdoors on average and are statistically worse at sun protection. Daily SPF is also the most effective anti-ageing step available.
Is bar soap bad for my face?
Body soap strips facial skin, leaving it tight and often oilier as it overcorrects. A facial gel cleanser takes the same 30 seconds and behaves completely differently.
Which products should men use for oily skin?
A gel cleanser (optionally with salicylic acid), an oil-free gel moisturiser and an oil-free SPF. Avoid washing more than twice daily — it increases oil production.
Can I use my partner's skincare products?
Mostly yes — skin is skin. Just match products to your skin type rather than theirs, and keep your own SPF so you actually apply it.
