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Gents, if you haven’t already, let this be your sign to build yourself a simple skincare routine. It doesn’t have to involve 10 different serums or take half an hour every morning.
All you need is a few hardworking products and a couple of minutes a day can make a world of difference.
For years, skincare has been marketed predominantly towards women, but skin is skin, and men deserve healthy, happy complexions too. Whether you’re dealing with dryness, excess oil, breakouts, sensitivity, or simply want to look more fresh-faced, the right routine can completely transform your skin.
The good news? You don’t need to invest in an overflowing bathroom cabinet to get started. Sticking to the basics is often the best approach. A reliable cleanser, a serum, a moisturiser, and SPF will form the best foundations.
We have rounded up the essential skincare products every man should have on his shelf for a fuss-free routine.
Best cleansers:

The INKEY List Salicylic Acid Cleanser
Every good skincare routine starts with a solid cleanser, and this affordable favourite punched well above its price tag. It’s infused with Salicylic Acid, which works to dissolve excess oil in the skin, unclogging pores and helping to keep breakouts at bay.
Buy Now for £12
Kiehl’s Facial Fuel Energising Face Wash
Think of this as an espresso shot for your skin. It’s packed with caffeine and menthol, so you’ll feel it working the second you put it on. It immediately energises tired skin, washing away dirt, sweat and the daily grime. Ideal for using in the morning to promote a fresher complexion ready for the day ahead.
Buy Now for £27
L'Oréal Men Expert Hydra Energetic Anti-Fatigue Face Wash With Vitamin C
If your skin isn’t looking its best, this budget-friendly buy helps fake your eight hours of sleep. It has Vitamin C, which is a brilliant ingredient at brightening dull complexions, while the refreshing gel formula lifts any impurities.
Buy Now for £5Best serums:

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% and B5
One of our personal favourites that we swear by is The Ordinary’s Hyaluronic Acid serum. This will instantly elevate your routine. The Hyaluronic Acid floods the skin with hydration, which in turn, helps it look plumper, smoother and brighter, while B% supports the skin’s natural barrier.
Buy Now for £8.80
La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Suractivated Serum
Dehydrated skin is not the one, which is why this lightweight serum from La Roche-Posay is a game-changer. It combines Hyaluronic Acid and B5 again to deliver long-lasting hydration, and the more you use, the more results you’ll see.
Buy Now for £45
Paula’s Choice Anti-Aging Antioxidant Serum
The price tag might seem steep, but it’s worth the investment, trust us. It protects and defends the skin from environmental stressors whilst delivering a hefty dose of hydration. It combines antioxidants to brighten, smooth, and promote healthier-looking skin.
Buy Now for £49Best moisturisers:

MALIN+GOETZ Advanced Renewal Moisturiser
A moisturiser is a non-negotiable in your routine, and the luxurious formula proves why. It’s rich enough to deeply hydrate without feeling heavy, it strengthens the skin barrier, and reduces the appearance of fine lines. If your skin needs help, this is well worth the splurge.
Buy Now for £70
BULLDOG SKINCARE Anytime Daily UV Face Moisturiser for Men
One step many men forget about is SPF, and thankfully many moisturisers combine the two in one nowadays. This nourishing formula from BULLDOG replenishes the skin whilst providing your daily UV protection. It will keep your skin fuelled with healthy ingredients whilst defending it from any sun damage.
Buy Now for £18
Clinique For Men™ Daily Hydrating SPF 50 Moisturiser
If you’re going to commit to one skincare habit, make it wearing SPF every day. Honestly, you won't regret it. It slows down signs of ageing, and will keep you looking and feeling better. Clinique’s option evens skin tone, hydrates and is brilliant for sensitive skin.
Buy Now for £37
Garnier Ambre Solaire Super UV SPF50+ Stick
This pocket-size stick makes topping up throughout the day effortless. It’s mess-free and invisible on the skin so you won't be left with any white cast after using it. It’s perfect for putting over moisturisers that aren’t combined with SPF, or to keep in your gym, work or travel bag.
Buy Now for £13.99Follow Metro across our social channels, on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
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