Men's 3-Step AM/PM Skincare Routine
- welltraveledderm
- Jan 20
- 4 min read
Many men, including my partner, prefer not to use a wide variety of products for their skin. I strongly believe in the principle that less is more, and I consciously make an effort to minimize the number of products I use. In recent years, we have normalized 5-10 step skincare routines, when in reality a few simple ingredients is more than enough. This 3-step skincare routine is designed to be simple, effective, and tailored to fit seamlessly into daily life. Whether you’re new to skincare or looking to streamline your routine, these essentials will help you achieve clean, hydrated, and resilient skin without the fuss.
AM Routine
Step 1: Cleanse - start your routine with a gentle cleanser. For some people, you can skip this step if you washed your face the night before as long as you don't sweat too much overnight. Below are some of my favorite products based on your skin concerns.
For dry skin, options include:
For oily skin, options include:
For acne-prone skin, options include:
*PanOxyl Antimicrobial Hydrating Acne Creamy Wash, 4% Benzoyl Peroxide
*CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser with 4% Benzoyl Peroxide
*Beware! Benzoyl peroxide may bleach fabrics so be sure to rinse thoroughly!
Step 2 (optional): Treat - use a treatment that includes an active ingredient to address your main skin concerns.
For dyspigmentation, use a vitamin C serum, which helps to brighten the skin, even out tone, and protect against environmental damage with powerful antioxidant properties.
For dry skin, use a hyaluronic acid-based serum, which helps to deeply hydrate the skin by attracting and retaining moisture, leaving it plump, smooth, and revitalized.
For acne-prone skin, us a niacinamide-based serum which helps to reduce redness, improve skin texture, and regulate oil production while strengthening the skin barrier.
Step 3: Sunscreen - a crucial step not only for anti-aging purposes, but in addressing other skin concerns including hyperpigmentation, skin cancer prevention, and skin hydration. Tinted sunscreens including some of the ones mentioned below are less likely to cause a white cast after application.
For dry skin:
For oily skin:
For fair skin: TiZO2 Facial Mineral Sunscreen and Primer, Non-tinted Broad Spectrum SPF 40
For more pigmented skin: TiZO3 Facial Mineral Sunscreen and Primer, Tinted Broad Spectrum SPF 40
For acne-prone skin:
For fair skin: EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen SPF 46
For more pigmented skin: EltaMD UV Clear Tinted Face Sunscreen, SPF 46 Oil- Free Tinted Sunscreen with Zinc Oxide
PM Routine
Step 1: Cleanse - start your routine with a gentle cleanser, once again below are some of my favorite products based on your skin concerns.
For dry skin, options include:
For oily skin, options include:
For acne-prone skin, options include:
*PanOxyl Antimicrobial Hydrating Acne Creamy Wash, 4% Benzoyl Peroxide
*CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser with 4% Benzoyl Peroxide
*Beware! Benzoyl peroxide may bleach fabrics so be sure to rinse thoroughly!
Step 2 (optional): Treat - use a treatment that addresses your primary skincare concern
For dyspigmentation, consider a antioxidant and niacinamide serum to help reduce the appearance of dark spots and discoloration while soothing and hydrating the skin.
For dry skin, similar to the AM routine use a hyaluronic acid-based serum to replenish the moisture in your skin to promote skin barrier repair, soothe irritation, and provide a protective, hydrating layer.
For acne-prone skin, use a retinoid to unclog pores, reduce inflammation, and promote skin cell turnover for a clearer, smoother complexion
*With excessive use, adapalene can be very drying. I recommend starting off with a pea-sized amount spread in a very thin layer throughout the entire face about 2-3 times weekly. If well-tolerated, you can very slowly increase to nightly. If you experience dry skin, you can consider applying a moisturizer before, after, or both using the "sandwich" method.
Step 3: Moisturize - using a moisturizer at night helps replenish hydration, repair the skin barrier, and support overnight rejuvenation for a healthier, more refreshed complexion. Consider one of the following options.
Bonus! For dry lips, consider Aquaphor Healing Ointment or CeraVe Healing Ointment
Taking care of your skin doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With the above 2-3 step routine, you can simplify your routine while using high impact ingredients. Consistency is key, and over time, you’ll notice the difference in how your skin looks and feels. A few minutes each day can go a long way toward boosting your confidence and keeping your skin at its best. Your future self will thank you!
*This post contains affiliate links
This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified dermatologist or healthcare provider for personalized diagnosis and treatment of any skin or scalp condition. If you experience persistent or severe symptoms, seek professional medical attention promptly.
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