Research shows that there are significant differences between men’s and women’s skin. For example, men typically have thicker skin than their female counterparts. Despite this, the basics of a solid skincare routine are similar for everyone.^I This means no matter who you are, your skincare routine should start with cleansing. Your skin is exposed to air pollution, dirt, and grime throughout the day, which sticks to your face. That, coupled with the excess oil and dead skin that naturally accumulates, makes it necessary to wash your face twice a day. To ensure your men’s skincare routine starts on the right note, choosing the right cleanser is key.

Our signature gel face wash for men, Facial Fuel Energizing Face Wash, washes away surface dirt and oil and helps skin resist the effects of environmental stressors, like pollution. It gives tired-looking skin a healthier appearance and can make your complexion feel less stressed post-shaving. The formula contains caffeine, menthol, vitamin E, and orange and lemon extracts.

In the morning and at night, wet your face, then lather the cleanser between your hands. Massage the formula onto your skin in upward and outward motions before rinsing off with lukewarm water.

Using a serum may be a step you’re inclined to skip (or one you’ve never given a thought to), but we have to recommend you reconsider. Serums aren’t merely an extra layer of product or reserved for 10-step routines: These potent formulas target your skincare concerns, whatever those may be. Much like there are toners for every skin issue you can imagine, the same goes for serums. Of course, there are also options that work for all skin types, which is perfect for a beginner skincare routine for men. Age Defender Power Serum suits any skin type, including sensitive skin, and can be used to help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. After cleansing and toning, smooth the serum over your skin, applying it every morning and night.

You should apply moisturizer anytime you cleanse your skin. This means if the extent of your skincare routine has always included cleansing your face with body wash or shampoo residue, you’re committing more than one skincare faux pas. After every cleansing session (with a proper face wash) comes moisturizer. This is true, regardless of skin type. You read that correctly, those with oily skin need to moisturize, too—even if it seems counterproductive. The reason being, oily skin still needs hydration. There are moisturizers, like Facial Fuel Energizing Moisture Treatment for Men, that work for all skin types, and others that can be used to address specific concerns, including oily skin. Facial Fuel is a bestseller thanks to its invigorating formula that absorbs quickly (without residue) and leaves skin feeling refueled, reenergized, and revitalized.

If you’re looking to start a men’s anti-aging routine, your moisturizer will be an essential skincare step. Try Age Defender Gel Moisturizer for a formula that visibly lifts and firms skin while helping reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. As for those of you with oily skin, Oil Eliminator 24-Hour Anti-Shine Moisturizer for Men is your match. It moisturizes skin while also reducing excess oil, sweat, and pollution. Over time, you’ll notice your skin looks less shiny, and your pores even look smaller.

Not every step in our recommended men’s skincare routine is meant to be done daily. Some additional steps are only necessary a few times a week or when your complexion is in need of a boost. One such step is exfoliation. Scrubbing your skin or sloughing its surface isn’t an everyday activity. In fact, exfoliating too often can irritate your skin. However, that doesn’t make it any less important. Exfoliation removes dead skin cells, which, in turn, helps your skin look brighter and allows it to better absorb products.

We recommend starting by exfoliating your face just once per week, then assessing how your skin responds and building up over time if needed. You may find that exfoliating once per week is plenty, while others may need to use a scrub two to three times a week. This will also vary based on the product you’re using.

Two popular options for exfoliating are face scrubs and exfoliating cleansers. While the two are similar, they aren’t the same. A face scrub should be used to slough your skin after cleansing, while an exfoliating cleanser works as a substitute for your daily face wash. In many cases, an exfoliating cleanser will be gentler and may have finer particles than a face scrub.

Our favorite face scrub is Facial Fuel Energizing Scrub. Use it to slough away dead cells, oil, and dirt and help soften tough facial hair for a more comfortable shave. If you prefer an exfoliating cleanser, try Age Defender Dual-Action Exfoliating Cleanser or Oil Eliminator Deep Cleansing Exfoliating Face Wash, which cleanses skin and reduces shine.

Shaving fits into your regular skincare routine after cleansing, exfoliating, and toning. However, when removing facial hair, you need to take extra care of your skin. Improperly using a razor can lead to razor bumps, burn, and dryness. One of the biggest shaving mistakes is trying to shave dry skin. When you shave, you should use shaving cream, gel, or lotion to help the razor glide over your damp skin. A brushless shave cream like our best-selling Ultimate Brushless Shave Cream White Eagle can help cushion skin from sharp blades and keep irritation to a minimum. The formula contains menthol and camphor, works on all skin types, and leaves skin primed for a close shave.

Close Shavers Squadron™ Smooth Glider Precision Shave Lotion is another favorite option. This shave lotion softens hair for a precise shave and helps protect skin from irritation.