Skincare isn’t just for women. The reality is, we all have skin that needs to be cared for, and it definitely doesn’t need to be complicated.
A well-built men’s skincare routine needs to address its own set of needs. Men’s skin is typically thicker, oilier, and more prone to enlarged pores, irritation from shaving, and environmental stress. Whether you’re dealing with breakouts, dullness, dryness, or simply want to look like you’ve slept eight hours (even when you haven’t), a few smart skincare choices can make a big difference.
You don’t need a drawer full of products or a 10-step ritual. You just need the right ones. So, if you’re ready to build a simple and effective routine (or help the man in your life get started), here are the three best skin products for men.
Understanding Men's Skincare Needs
Men’s skin is biologically different. Thanks to testosterone, it’s thicker than women’s and tends to produce more oil. That means it can handle stronger ingredients, but it also means clogged pores and shine are common issues. Add daily shaving to the mix, and you’ve got irritation, ingrown hairs, and sensitivity to manage as well.
That’s why the goal isn’t to follow trends. It’s about building a targeted, high-performance routine that suits your skin type, lifestyle, and time constraints. Let’s dive into what that looks like.
Step 1: The Essential Medicated Wash
A healthy skincare routine for men starts with clean skin. But… Some cleansers tend to strip the skin, leaving it tight or dry. Others don’t do enough. Our Medicated Wash hits the perfect balance: it cleans deeply, treats the skin, and respects your skin barrier.
Formulated with 2% Salicylic Acid USP and Hexamidine Diisethionate, this men's face wash does more than remove dirt. It targets the root causes of common men’s skin issues, like excess oil, congestion, and post-shave irritation.
This powerful yet non-drying formula helps unclog pores, remove excess oil, and reduce the risk of blemishes, making it an ideal choice for men who want results without fuss.
Step 2: The Do-It-All Serum, C E Peptides
Now that your skin is clean, it’s time to treat it with something that goes the extra mile. Enter C E Peptides. It’s a lightweight, no-fuss Vitamin C serum that covers a lot of ground.
Packed with pharmaceutical-grade Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and peptides, this serum helps even out your skin tone, reduce fine lines, and boost collagen production. It also protects against oxidative stress caused by pollution, sun, and stress, things we’re exposed to daily.
What makes it especially valuable for men? It’s excellent for calming post-shave skin and reinforcing your skin barrier. And if you spend a lot of time outdoors, like on a job site or the golf course, this is your first line of defence against environmental damage.
One product, multiple benefits. That’s why it belongs in any minimalist routine.
Step 3: The Non-Negotiable, Sun Protection for Men
If there’s one product most men skip (and really shouldn’t), it’s sunscreen. We get it. It sort of feels optional. But in reality, daily sun exposure is the #1 cause of premature skin aging. And yes, that includes cloudy days, winter months, and short walks to the car.
Applying sunscreen every morning—especially one with SPF 30 or higher—helps prevent long-term skin damage, keeps your skin tone even, and protects against sunburn and irritation. A personal favourite among our male shoppers is the SHEER SPF 45, thanks to its high protection and matte finish. That said, the most important thing is choosing what works best for your skin.
A single skincare rule to live by (and any dermatologist would agree): sunscreen isn’t only for beach days, it’s a daily essential.
When choosing a daily for men, look for a broad-spectrum formula (protects against UVA and UVB rays), non-greasy, and fast-absorbing. The easier it is to wear, the more likely you are to stick with it, and your skin will thank you.
How to Build a Simple Skincare Routine for Men
Don’t let anyone convince you that healthy skin requires a complicated 10-step routine. A simple, consistent approach is what delivers results.
In the morning, start with a medicated cleanser. Dry your skin, apply a targeted serum like C E Peptides, then finish with SPF. That’s it. Done. You’re good to go, whether you’re spending your day outdoors or glued to a screen.
In the evening, cleanse again to remove the day’s buildup and reapply your serum. And while it’s not mandatory, we always recommend adding a moisturizer if you can. Our pick for a men's moisturizer? Lexxel: a straightforward, effective, and no-nonsense moisturizer.
That’s your core routine, in two minutes, twice a day.
Want to take it one step further? We recommend adding a retinol at night. It helps improve skin texture, reduce fine lines, and support skin renewal over time. And no, retinol isn’t just for women. It’s one of the most effective ingredients in skincare.
Choose Quality, Not Quantity.
When it comes to selecting the best skincare products for men, ingredient quality is more important than quantity. Opt for science-backed formulas from reputable brands that prioritize results over trends.
Vivier’s products are developed with pharmaceutical-grade ingredients, proven actives, and over 25 years of clinical expertise, so you can trust what you’re putting on your skin.
Ready to start (or upgrade) your skincare routine? Start simple. Stay consistent. And choose products with proven results.
