Men’s skin care doesn’t have to be complicated. A few simple changes to your routine can make a huge difference in how your skin looks and feels. To help you get started, here are 7 essential tips every guy needs to know to keep your skin on point and glowing.
Note: This article focuses on skin care for people assigned male at birth.

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1. Identify Your Skin Type and Choose the Right Products
The first step in achieving healthy skin is understanding your skin type. A quick way to determine your skin type is by performing a tissue test:
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Wash your face with a mild cleanser like Cetaphil.
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Pat your face dry.
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Wait for 5 minutes, then press a facial tissue against your face.
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If the tissue is dry, you have dry skin. If there’s oil, you have oily skin. If it’s slightly damp, you have combination skin.
Knowing your skin type helps you choose the right cleanser and other skin care products.
2. Avoid Using Skin Care Products Meant for Women
Although men and women might share similar skin types, their skin is different. Men typically have more oil glands and tougher skin. Skin care products formulated for men take these differences into account, which is why you should stick to products designed specifically for male skin. Don’t borrow your girlfriend’s or sister’s skin care products.
3. Wash Your Face Twice a Day
Washing your face twice a day is key to keeping your skin clean. Dermatologists recommend it, especially for men in their 20s who tend to have oilier skin. Cleanse your face in the morning and at night to remove dirt, excess oil, and impurities. If washing twice a day makes your skin feel dry, you can simply rinse with water in the morning.
4. Use Benzoyl Peroxide for Acne
Benzoyl peroxide is a tried-and-true acne treatment. It works by unclogging pores, killing bacteria, and exfoliating dead skin cells. Look for acne products that list benzoyl peroxide as a primary ingredient. Replace old products every two years, as they can lose their effectiveness.
5. Exfoliate 2 to 3 Times a Week
Exfoliating helps prevent acne by removing dead skin cells and keeping your pores clear. Shaving already exfoliates your skin, but to keep your skin healthy, exfoliate 2-3 times a week. If you have oily skin, opt for an exfoliator with salicylic acid. For sensitive skin, a creamier formula is better.
6. Use the Right Products for Shaving
Shaving can irritate the skin, so using the right products is essential. After shaving, apply an alcohol-free aftershave with vitamin C to soothe the skin. If you experience redness, choose an aftershave with niacinamide, which reduces irritation and redness.
7. Don’t Skip Sunscreen (and Eye Cream)
Wearing sunscreen daily is a must, even in winter. Sun exposure damages your skin, causing premature aging and increasing the risk of skin cancer. Apply a moisturizer with SPF every morning to protect your skin. If you want to reduce signs of aging, use a retinoid at night to stimulate collagen production, reduce sun damage, and improve skin texture. For visible results around your eyes, try an eye cream like Kiehl’s Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado.