Best Face Moisturisers for Men: A Guide to Soft, Hydrated Skin

If your skin is not looking as fresh and clear as it used to, it might be time to step up your skincare routine. Our skin can easily be affected by environmental aggressors like sun damage, dirt and oil and it’s important to give your skin the care it needs to recover. Daily shaving can also have an impact on your skin, so it’s essential to choose the right products to protect it.

Moisturiser is an integral component of any skincare routine because it keeps your skin nourished and hydrated and prevents extremes like dryness and dehydration or excessive oiliness. Moisturisers come in different forms - gels, creams and lotion - which are each formulated to address different skin problems. Generally speaking, gels are best suited to combination to oily skin, creams are best for dry to combination skin and lotion are perfect for combination skin.

The first step to finding the right moisturiser for you is to work out what type of skin you have. One of the easiest ways to determine your skin type is to simply observe how it behaves after cleansing. First, wash your face with a gentle cleanser and then pat it dry with a facecloth. After 30 minutes, you should be able to notice some changes. If your skin looks quite shiny, you probably have oily skin. If it looks flaky or scaly you have dry skin and if it’s only shiny in some places you probably have normal to combination skin.

Keep reading to find out more information about the best men's moisturisers.

Best Moisturisers for Men

Daily dose of hydration 

Skin hydration is important for every type of skin, because it helps your skin maintain its elasticity and protects it from external irritants. When your skin is dehydrated, bacteria can slip through the lipid barrier and cause inflammation or infection. Dehydrated skin can also become itchy, flaky, red or appear more wrinkled than usual.

Some key ingredients to look for include:

• Plumping, hydrating ingredients like glycerin and hyaluronic acid for long lasting hydration
• Ingredients that seal in moisture like ceramides and petrolatum
• Protective ingredients like squalane

Osmosis MD Quench

The Osmosis MD Quench has a lightweight, fast-absorbing formula, making it perfect for people who don’t have much time in the mornings. This hydrating cream contains essential hydrating ingredients including glycerin and squalane, and helps repair the skin’s lipid barrier, protecting it from environmental aggressors.

This product should be applied twice a day after washing your face.

Dermaceutic Hyal Ceutic

The Dermaceutic Hyal Ceutic contains a combination of intensely hydrating ingredients including hyaluronic acid, jojoba oil and vitamin E. This product provides nourishing moisturisation making it perfect for dry or mature skin types that lack moisture.

This product should be applied once or twice a day after cleansing.

Slow down the signs of ageing

As we age, our skin naturally changes and begins to show signs of ageing. The most common signs of skin ageing include:

• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Dull skin
• Uneven skin tone
• Dry skin
• Visible pores or a rough texture

Many of these are caused by natural ageing processes, because our skin loses elasticity and doesn’t retain moisture as well as it used to. However, lifestyle factors like sun exposure, smoking, stress levels and exercise can also have an impact.

Therefore, the best way to slow down the signs of ageing is to take care of your skin every day. This means avoiding excessive UV exposure, wearing sunscreen with high SPF, using moisturiser consistently and quitting smoking.

Important ingredients to look for in anti-ageing skincare include:

• Retinoids - To tighten skin and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
• Vitamin C - To protect skin from free radical damage
• Alpha hydroxy acids - To exfoliate skin and stimulate the growth of new skin cells
• Peptides - To stimulate collagen production and improve skin texture
• Tea and botanical extracts - To calm inflammation and soothe skin

Aspect Dr Resveratrol Moisturising Cream

The Aspect Dr Resveratrol Moisturising Cream is specifically formulated to target the signs of ageing while simultaneously providing intense, nourishing hydration. It contains peptides and resveratrol to tighten and firm the skin as well as antioxidants in the form of sunflower seed oil and shea butter.

This product is vegan friendly and suitable for sensitive skin. It can be used in both the morning and the evening.

 

Dermaceutic TurnOver

The Dermaceutic TurnOver is a hydrating moisturiser formulated with 15% glycolic acid to remove dead skin cells and promote cell renewal. This product works to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and improve uneven skin texture. It is suitable for all skin types except for sensitive skin.

This product should be applied to a clean face in the evening. Apply a broad spectrum sunscreen in the morning for best results.

Control oil and sebum production

The glands in our skin naturally produce sebum, which is needed to keep our skin healthy. However, when our skin begins to produce too much sebum this can result in oily skin, clogged pores, breakouts and acne.

There are a few ways to manage oily skin and excess sebum production. Firstly, you should wash your face regularly using a cleanser that has been formulated for oily skin. Avoid any soaps with fragrances or harsh chemicals, because these can dry out the skin and cause it to respond by producing more sebum. Following your cleanser, you should use a toner to soothe your skin.

You can also try using face masks with natural core ingredients like clay, honey or oatmeal.

Some key ingredients to look for in moisturisers to combat oily skin include:

• Salicylic acid - Unclogs pores and clarifies the skin
• Hyaluronic acid - Provides a very lightweight source of hydration
• Niacinamide - Bolsters the skin barrier and stimulates collagen production
• Retinol - Firms skin

Aspect Dr BHA Purifying Gel

The Aspect Dr BHA Purifying Gel is a lightweight formula containing salicylic acid that is perfect for unclogging pores. It helps to minimise excess oil and clarify the complexion and contains exfoliating properties in the form of citric acid.

This product should only be used once per day, at night time after cleansing.

Soothe red and irritated skin

There are a number of possible causes for facial irritation or redness, including rosacea, eczema and dermatitis. Redness can also be caused by frequent sun exposure or irritation as a result of acne.

It’s important to identify what’s causing the redness before you can address it, so it’s a good idea to see a dermatologist. To soothe your irritated skin, it’s generally recommended to keep your skincare routine free of fragrances and preservatives and look for hypoallergenic products. You should use soothing moisturisers that are specifically formulated to calm redness and be mindful of environmental factors that may trigger irritation; such as temperature changes, stressful periods or prolonged sun exposure.

Some of the ingredients to look for to help combat redness include niacinamide, sulfur, chamomile, aloe vera, cucumber, and ceramides.

Cosmedix Rescue

The Cosmedix Rescue is an antioxidant rich moisturising lotion that relieves skin dryness and reduces the appearance of redness. It contains botanical ingredients including Canadian willowherb and cherry bark extract that work to soothe redness and inflammation, while antioxidants like vitamin C and shea butter help to protect the skin against free radicals.

This product can be used in either the morning or the evening. If used in the evening, it can be left overnight.

 

Dermaceutic Panthenol Ceutic

The Dermaceutic Panthenol Ceutic is a soothing and nourishing balm that can be used to calm irritation and redness after cosmetic treatments. This product contains shea butter, beeswax and vitamin E to comfort inflamed skin and relieve dryness. It is hypoallergenic and suitable for sensitive skin.

This product can be used as often as necessary, especially following cosmetic treatments.

 

Support healthy skin barrier function

Our skin is one of the most important organs in our body and although it is composed of cells, proteins, ceramides and lipids, one of the most important components is the skin barrier. The skin barrier is the outermost part of the epidermis (the top layer of skin) and is responsible for protecting your skin from external stressors and irritants, locking in hydration and delivering essential nutrients to your skin.

When you have a healthy skin barrier your skin will appear smooth and luminous and will be more resistant to the signs of ageing. It will also be less prone to sensitivity, irritation or any other skin concerns.

A compromised skin barrier can be caused by a number of factors, including:

• Prolonged sun exposure
• Smoking
• Stress
• Lack of sleep
• Over-exfoliation

A compromised skin barrier can be improved by investing in a thorough skincare routine that includes at least a cleanser, toner, moisturiser and sunscreen. Washing your face regularly and protecting your skin from the sun can work wonders for improving the resilience of your skin.

Some ingredients to look for when hoping to repair your skin barrier include:

• Squalane - This will fight skin and free radical damage
• Hyaluronic acid - This ingredient is able to penetrate the top layer of skin to heal from beneath
• Antioxidants - Products that are rich in antioxidants like sunflower seed oil and avocado oil will help to defend your skin against environmental stressors

 

Dermaceutic Regen Ceutic

The Dermaceutic Regen Ceutic is a moisturising cream that accelerates skin recovery after cosmetic treatments. This product helps to restore the skin barrier because it contains peptides, hyaluronic acid and shea butter to firm and tighten the skin. This moisturiser is suitable for sensitive skin because it contains anti-inflammatory ingredients that work to soothe redness and irritation.

This product should be applied in the morning and evening after cleansing. Follow through with sunscreen in the day time for best results.

Aspect Phytostat 9

The Aspect Phytostat 9 is rich in antioxidants including vitamin E, sunflower seed and kakadu plum to nourish and protect the skin, sealing in moisture and improving skin texture. This product is a moisturiser that delivers intense hydration and is completely free from artificial colours and fragrances. This product can help to repair the skin barrier by locking in moisture and revitalising the skin.

This moisturiser can be used in the morning and evening and is suitable for all skin types.

Post-shave hydration without the irritation

Irritation can occur after shaving for a few different reasons. It could be because you’ve used a dull blade, your skin was too dry, you were shaving too aggressively or applying too much pressure. The best way to prevent any post-shave irritation is to use shaving cream and swap out your blades regularly, but you should also make sure to apply moisturiser after shaving.

It’s important to hydrate your skin after shaving because it replenishes any lost moisture and helps your skin to feel comfortable. It helps to prevent dehydration and protects your skin.

Aspect Super Moisturising Complex

When it comes to finding the best post shave moisturiser, the Aspect Super Moisturising Complex is perfect, especially for dehydrated skin. This moisturiser provides intense nourishment that works to tighten and strengthen skin. The combination of squalane, glycerin and aloe vera binds moisture into the skin while vitamins C & E protect the skin from free radicals.

This product can be used in the morning and evening and is especially suited to those who experience skin dryness.

 

Aspect Dr Ultra Light Hydration

The Aspect Dr Ultra Light Hydration is a good post-shave moisturiser for those with oily skin. The non-comedogenic formula soothes and mattifies the skin, providing intense hydration without clogging pores. It is a lightweight formula containing glycerin, squalane and a blend of rich antioxidants to nourish and protect the skin.

This product can be used in the morning and evening and is suitable for all types of skin.

 

Brighten skin and eliminate dark spots

Dark spots on the skin are not usually a cause for concern, but many people may want to treat them for aesthetic reasons. Dark spots, or hyperpigmentation, are most often caused by sun damage, but they can also be caused by hormonal changes, medication side effects, inflammation or irritation. The best way to protect your skin against dark spots is to wear sun protection and avoid prolonged sun exposure.

Cosmetic procedures like laser treatment, microdermabrasion and chemical peels are an option to improve the appearance of dark spots in severe cases, however, certain skincare ingredients can also be effective. The skincare ingredients that may help to lessen the appearance of dark spots include:

• Retinol - It speeds up cell turnover and increases cell renewal
• Vitamin C - This antioxidant blocks melanin production and protects the skin from further damage
• Kojic acid - Protects the skin from environmental pollutants
• Niacinamide - Brightens the skin

Dermaceutic Mela Cream

 

The Dermaceutic Mela Cream is specifically formulated to reduce the appearance of pigmentation and uneven skin tone. It contains highly concentrated active ingredients including kojic acid, niacinamide and retinol that help to regulate pigment production and balance the complexion. This cream is not suitable for very sensitive skin.

This product can be used only at night time, starting with one or two uses per week. It is recommended to use it for three months for best results. Discontinue use if any signs of irritation occur. Follow through with sun protection the following morning.

 

Dermaceutic Radiance

The Dermaceutic Radiance is designed to reduce the appearance of pigmentation and improve an uneven complexion. Containing kojic acid and salicylic acid, this moisturiser helps to inhibit the production of melanin and remove dead skin. A brightening agent in the form of niacinamide then works to increase luminosity.

This product should be applied in the evening. Start by using it twice a week and then increase frequency as your skin adjusts. For best results, it is recommended to use this for three months.

 

Daily sun protection

Sun protection is essential to ensure the long-lasting health of your skin. Too much unprotected sun exposure can lead to skin cancer and premature ageing skin, so it’s important to use as much protection as possible. When you know you’re going to be out in the sun for a while, it’s best to wear long-sleeved clothes, a hat and sunglasses, but you also need to wear plenty of sunscreen.

There are two types of sunscreen - physical (mineral) sunscreens and chemical sunscreens. Physical sunscreens block the sun’s rays altogether, sitting on the skin's surface to create a physical barrier between the sun and your skin. This type may be better suited to sensitive skin.

Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays before they can cause any damage. They need to be applied at least 20 minutes before exposure to the sun. These types of sunscreens may not be suitable for those with sensitive skin because the process of absorbing and releasing the UV rays could trigger irritation. 

Sunscreen can be bought in both spray and lotion form, but it’s usually best to choose a lotion because there is no risk of inhalation. You can also buy sunscreen sticks, which can be perfect for the eye area because they won’t run or wear off in water.

Dermaceutic K Ceutic SPF50

 

The Dermaceutic K Ceutic SPF50 is a nourishing post-treatment cream with SPF50 sun protection. This product contains a blend of soothing botanical ingredients, including aloe vera and vitamins C & E, so it’s perfect for calming redness and protecting the skin from further damage.

This cream should be applied 20 minutes before sun exposure and reapplied every 2 hours or where necessary.

SkinCeuticals Ultra Facial Defense SPF50

The SkinCeuticals Ultra Facial Defense SPF50 is an intensely nourishing and protective daily moisturiser that is perfect for all skin types. It provides UVA/UVB protection while delivering lightweight hydration. The formula is oil free, and non-comedogenic so it is suitable for oily skin.

This product should be applied 20 minutes prior to sun exposure and combined with sunglasses and a hat. It is ideal to reapply every 2 hours or where necessary.

FAQ

What is moisturiser and why do I need it?

Moisturiser is a skincare product that hydrates your skin. It’s important for all skin types because it helps your skin stay balanced and healthy and reduces the risk of skin problems such as dryness, flakiness, blemishes and acne.

Do men need a different moisturiser?

Men generally have oilier skin, compared to woman. Men's moisturisers should be chosen based on skin type, not gender.

What moisturisers should men use?

The first step in choosing a moisturiser is to identify what skin type you have. If you have dry skin, you’ll want to choose a moisturiser with intensely hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid. If you have oily skin, you should choose a water-based, lightweight moisturiser that won’t clog pores. If you have sensitive skin or a skin condition such as rosacea, you should look for a hypoallergenic moisturiser.

What is the best moisturiser for men's face?

The best moisturiser for men will depend on skin type as well as individual goals and concerns. You should check the ingredients list before purchasing a moisturiser and make a note of what you want to look for or achieve.

When should men moisturise their face?

Men's moisturiser should be used twice a day - once in the morning and once in the evening - unless otherwise advised by a dermatologist or skin care professional.

 

Moisturisers are essential for both men and women because they help to keep skin healthy and balanced. Using a moisturiser regularly will keep your skin looking youthful and will reduce the risk of experiencing skin problems. To find the right moisturiser for you, you should consider what ingredients will suit your type of skin and specific skin concerns.

Please patch test before use and discontinue use if irritation persists.

Shop our moisturiser range here.

 

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