Best Skincare Routine for Men: Beyond Shaving

A Simple Skincare Routine for Men: Beyond Shaving

A good shave is only part of looking after your skin. If your face feels tight after washing or uncomfortable after shaving, adding more products isn’t always the answer. Start with a simple routine: cleanse gently, moisturise and protect your skin from the sun.

You don’t need a bathroom shelf full of bottles. Choose products that suit your skin, introduce them one at a time and keep the routine easy enough to stick with.

Step 1: Cleanse without scrubbing

Use lukewarm water and a facial cleanser to remove everyday dirt, excess oil and sunscreen. Massage gently rather than rubbing hard, rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a clean towel. Adjust how often you cleanse to your skin and the product’s directions rather than chasing a squeaky-clean feeling.

Thunderbird Enzymatic Cleansing Balm is a balm-to-milk option with shea butter, botanical oils and bromelain. Apply to dry skin according to its directions, add water to emulsify and rinse. It contains exfoliating enzymes, so bear that in mind before adding another exfoliating product.

A cleansing balm is washed off. It isn’t the same thing as an aftershave balm, which stays on the skin.

Step 2: Shave with comfort in mind

On shaving days, take your time, use a suitable shaving soap or cream and avoid repeatedly going over the same patch of skin. Rinse away the remaining lather before applying your post-shave product.

Not sure how to finish your shave? Our aftershave balm vs splash guide explains the difference and helps you compare the formulas.

Step 3: Moisturise

Choose a facial moisturiser that leaves your skin feeling comfortable rather than tight or greasy. Follow the product’s directions, and use a little more or less as needed. You can moisturise on non-shaving days too.

Dapper Dan Aftershave Balm can also be used as a daily facial moisturiser. It contains glycerin, shea butter and cocoa butter, with a eucalyptus and menthol character. If cooling or fragranced products don’t agree with your skin, choose a different formula.

For another post-shave option, Speick Men After Shave Balm Sensitive combines aloe vera, glycerin, marigold extract and camellia oil. It also contains alcohol, menthol and fragrance, so check the full ingredients if your skin is sensitive to these.

Step 4: Add sun protection

Finish your daytime routine with a broad-spectrum sunscreen suitable for your face. Follow the label for application amount, timing and reapplication, including after swimming or sweating. Combine sunscreen with shade and suitable clothing when outdoors.

Don’t assume a moisturiser or aftershave provides sun protection unless its label specifically states it does.

Where does exfoliation fit in?

Exfoliation is optional, not a daily requirement. If you choose an exfoliating cleanser, scrub or acid-based product, follow its directions and avoid introducing several exfoliating products at once. Be especially cautious around shaving, and skip exfoliation when your skin feels sore or irritated.

Start with the basics before adding serums, scrubs or other extras. More steps don’t automatically mean better results.

A simple morning and evening routine

Morning: gently cleanse or rinse as appropriate for your skin, shave if needed, moisturise and apply sunscreen according to its directions.

Evening: cleanse away the day’s sunscreen and dirt, then moisturise. Keep any optional treatments separate until you know how your skin responds to each product.

Keep it consistent, not complicated

Pay attention to how your skin feels and stop using a product if it causes irritation. If discomfort or a skin problem persists, ask a pharmacist or qualified healthcare professional for advice.

Start with a cleanser and moisturiser you enjoy using, add appropriate sun protection and build from there. For more on your post-shave step, read our guide to choosing an aftershave balm or splash.