For years, men’s skincare has been treated like something of an afterthought. And on one hand, it makes sense: With traditionally floral scents and emphasis on smoother, softer, and more youthful skin, skincare has always seemed to be made with women in mind.
But that’s about to change. More and more men are investing in their skin, and for good reason: Skin is the same whatever your gender. While there are some biological differences between men and women when it comes to skin structure and characteristics, many skin concerns are equal opportunity issues. Winter dryness can affect everyone, as does sun exposure. Men get acne, too — and their skin also shows signs of aging.
This is all to say: Everyone could benefit from taking good care of their skin, whatever your gender. And while the best skincare for men isn’t all that complicated, it can still be hard to know where to start, especially if you’re new to it. Does your skin barrier need TLC? Are you looking to address a specific concern, like keratosis pilaris? If you’re searching for the right skincare routine for men, read on for guidance.
Is men’s skin really different from women?
For the most part, skin structure and concerns are universal: Everyone has pores; everyone can experience those pores getting clogged; everyone is vulnerable to dryness, sun damage, and sensitivity.
But studies do show that there are some important differences in skin. A review of existing literature found that men produce more sebum (which is the waxy substance that serves as skin's natural moisturizer), so much so that it can actually impair the skin barrier. (This difference is because sebum production is determined by sex hormones.) Men also tend to have more dark spots and wrinkles, possibly because they might not have as regular a skincare routine as women do.
Then, there's the matter of facial hair. Shaving it on a regular basis doubles as a form of exfoliation, which could potentially lead to irritation. Men also seem to be more prone to skin cancer than women, according to a study in the Journal of Dermatological Science.
Before we get into the best skincare routine for men, though, it’s worth noting that these differences don’t necessarily require wildly different routines. Rather, they just underline the fact that men really can benefit from incorporating skincare products into their day, whether that’s a nourishing moisturizer or a lightweight sunscreen. And with that, here’s what we recommend.
Step 1: Cleanse
Cleansing is the baseline of any and every skincare routine, be it for men or women. But the type of cleanser you use matters. For men, who have naturally more oily skin than women, a foaming face wash that can gently (but thoroughly!) clean skin is your best bet. That's where the Black Rice Moisture 5.5 Soft Cleansing Gel is especially helpful; instead of the typical harsh cleansing agents, it's formulated with coconut-derived surfactants that sweep away sunscreen, grime, and excess oil without leaving skin dry or tight.
It's been shown in clinical tests to be gentle enough for sensitive skin, and is infused with a lineup of brightening and soothing ingredients. Fermented black rice extract provides protective antioxidants and moisture, while ginseng root extract helps remove impurities from skin.
Step 2: Tone
Toning might seem like a nice-to-have addition, but it’s an essential part of any Korean skincare for men. That's because it immediately hydrates skin on the spot and replenishes the skin barrier — and, in doing so, better prepares your skin to absorb any products you layer on afterwards. Our Black Rice Hyaluronic Toner is particularly powerful. First, it delivers hyaluronic acid to restore hydration to dry or dehydrated skin. It also contains fermented black rice extract. That black rice is worth noting: While a lot of K-beauty toners contain rice extract, our fermented black rice is twice as effective at soothing inflammation and addressing wrinkles and dark spots.
While it works quickly, the Black Rice Hyaluronic Toner offers benefits over time, too. After two weeks of use, testers saw improvements in both skin moisture and skin texture. The formula is also free of alcohol and fragrance, which are two common irritants that could otherwise leave skin dry and uncomfortable.
Step 3: Moisturize
The best skincare routine for men wouldn’t be complete without a moisturizer. That’s because everyone needs to moisturize, regardless of skin type, skin concern, and, yes, gender. The only difference might be in the type of moisturizer you reach for.
For most men, Centella Phyto & 5 Peptide Concentrate Cream is a lightweight formula that checks all the boxes. It actively improves skin firmness, minimizes the look of fine lines, supports the skin barrier, soothes irritation, and even brightens skin—all without ever feeling greasy or tacky. The benefits are due in part to the titular blend of five peptides, which includes a patented Emortal (N) plant peptide; derived from pea protein, this innovative ingredient effectively works to defend your stem cells, which are otherwise responsible for maintaining skin elasticity and function over time.
The centella in the product name is a reference to Centella asiatica, or cica, an ingredient beloved for its ability to soothe redness and calm skin. And then there are the caffeine and squalene; these work to keep skin comfortable, soft, and glowing. And let’s not forget the hydrolyzed soy protein: Made from Jeju blue soybeans (all locally grown on South Korea’s idyllic island of Jeju), this ingredient helps hydrate skin, boost elasticity, and help plump deeper wrinkles.
Not surprisingly, the formula leads to impressive results. After four weeks of use, testers had a 41.4% improvement in skin moisture, and almost 30% improvement in wrinkles. But while you can see short-term benefits, the biggest perks of this anti-aging cream might be had in the future.
Step 4: Protect
When it comes to night skincare for men, you can stop there. But for the daytime, no skincare routine for men is complete without sunscreen, which protects skin from sun damage and skin cancer alike.
But sunscreen hasn’t always been pleasant to use: It often had a scent, a tacky feel, and a chalky finish. The good news? Our Black Rice Moisture Airyfit Daily Sunscreen SPF50+/PA++++ eliminates all of those concerns. Its chemical filters absorb UV rays, converting them into heat energy that then dissipates off skin. Rather than sitting on top of skin, the velvety formula sinks in for a natural finish, making it a dream to apply (and reapply).
Not only that, but the formula is also infused with antioxidant-rich black rice oil, barrier-supporting ceramides, and niacinamide, which actively brightens — leaving skin not only protected, but softer and brighter. The trick to making the most of it: Use the right amount. Apply two finger-lengths to the face and neck and massage it in until it’s fully absorbed.
With that, you can consider yourself set up for success — because everyone deserves good skin.
It’s 2025: Men Deserve (and Need) Good Skincare, Too
For years, men’s skincare has been treated like something of an afterthought. And on one hand, it makes sense: With traditionally floral scents and emphasis on smoother, softer, and more youthful skin, skincare has always seemed to be made with women in mind.
But that’s about to change. More and more men are investing in their skin, and for good reason: Skin is the same whatever your gender. While there are some biological differences between men and women when it comes to skin structure and characteristics, many skin concerns are equal opportunity issues. Winter dryness can affect everyone, as does sun exposure. Men get acne, too — and their skin also shows signs of aging.
This is all to say: Everyone could benefit from taking good care of their skin, whatever your gender. And while the best skincare for men isn’t all that complicated, it can still be hard to know where to start, especially if you’re new to it. Does your skin barrier need TLC? Are you looking to address a specific concern, like keratosis pilaris? If you’re searching for the right skincare routine for men, read on for guidance.
Is men’s skin really different from women?
For the most part, skin structure and concerns are universal: Everyone has pores; everyone can experience those pores getting clogged; everyone is vulnerable to dryness, sun damage, and sensitivity.
But studies do show that there are some important differences in skin. A review of existing literature found that men produce more sebum (which is the waxy substance that serves as skin's natural moisturizer), so much so that it can actually impair the skin barrier. (This difference is because sebum production is determined by sex hormones.) Men also tend to have more dark spots and wrinkles, possibly because they might not have as regular a skincare routine as women do.
Then, there's the matter of facial hair. Shaving it on a regular basis doubles as a form of exfoliation, which could potentially lead to irritation. Men also seem to be more prone to skin cancer than women, according to a study in the Journal of Dermatological Science.
Before we get into the best skincare routine for men, though, it’s worth noting that these differences don’t necessarily require wildly different routines. Rather, they just underline the fact that men really can benefit from incorporating skincare products into their day, whether that’s a nourishing moisturizer or a lightweight sunscreen. And with that, here’s what we recommend.
Step 1: Cleanse
Cleansing is the baseline of any and every skincare routine, be it for men or women. But the type of cleanser you use matters. For men, who have naturally more oily skin than women, a foaming face wash that can gently (but thoroughly!) clean skin is your best bet. That's where the Black Rice Moisture 5.5 Soft Cleansing Gel is especially helpful; instead of the typical harsh cleansing agents, it's formulated with coconut-derived surfactants that sweep away sunscreen, grime, and excess oil without leaving skin dry or tight.
It's been shown in clinical tests to be gentle enough for sensitive skin, and is infused with a lineup of brightening and soothing ingredients. Fermented black rice extract provides protective antioxidants and moisture, while ginseng root extract helps remove impurities from skin.
Step 2: Tone
Toning might seem like a nice-to-have addition, but it’s an essential part of any Korean skincare for men. That's because it immediately hydrates skin on the spot and replenishes the skin barrier — and, in doing so, better prepares your skin to absorb any products you layer on afterwards. Our Black Rice Hyaluronic Toner is particularly powerful. First, it delivers hyaluronic acid to restore hydration to dry or dehydrated skin. It also contains fermented black rice extract. That black rice is worth noting: While a lot of K-beauty toners contain rice extract, our fermented black rice is twice as effective at soothing inflammation and addressing wrinkles and dark spots.
While it works quickly, the Black Rice Hyaluronic Toner offers benefits over time, too. After two weeks of use, testers saw improvements in both skin moisture and skin texture. The formula is also free of alcohol and fragrance, which are two common irritants that could otherwise leave skin dry and uncomfortable.
Step 3: Moisturize
The best skincare routine for men wouldn’t be complete without a moisturizer. That’s because everyone needs to moisturize, regardless of skin type, skin concern, and, yes, gender. The only difference might be in the type of moisturizer you reach for.
For most men, Centella Phyto & 5 Peptide Concentrate Cream is a lightweight formula that checks all the boxes. It actively improves skin firmness, minimizes the look of fine lines, supports the skin barrier, soothes irritation, and even brightens skin—all without ever feeling greasy or tacky. The benefits are due in part to the titular blend of five peptides, which includes a patented Emortal (N) plant peptide; derived from pea protein, this innovative ingredient effectively works to defend your stem cells, which are otherwise responsible for maintaining skin elasticity and function over time.
The centella in the product name is a reference to Centella asiatica, or cica, an ingredient beloved for its ability to soothe redness and calm skin. And then there are the caffeine and squalene; these work to keep skin comfortable, soft, and glowing. And let’s not forget the hydrolyzed soy protein: Made from Jeju blue soybeans (all locally grown on South Korea’s idyllic island of Jeju), this ingredient helps hydrate skin, boost elasticity, and help plump deeper wrinkles.
Not surprisingly, the formula leads to impressive results. After four weeks of use, testers had a 41.4% improvement in skin moisture, and almost 30% improvement in wrinkles. But while you can see short-term benefits, the biggest perks of this anti-aging cream might be had in the future.
Step 4: Protect
When it comes to night skincare for men, you can stop there. But for the daytime, no skincare routine for men is complete without sunscreen, which protects skin from sun damage and skin cancer alike.
But sunscreen hasn’t always been pleasant to use: It often had a scent, a tacky feel, and a chalky finish. The good news? Our Black Rice Moisture Airyfit Daily Sunscreen SPF50+/PA++++ eliminates all of those concerns. Its chemical filters absorb UV rays, converting them into heat energy that then dissipates off skin. Rather than sitting on top of skin, the velvety formula sinks in for a natural finish, making it a dream to apply (and reapply).
Not only that, but the formula is also infused with antioxidant-rich black rice oil, barrier-supporting ceramides, and niacinamide, which actively brightens — leaving skin not only protected, but softer and brighter. The trick to making the most of it: Use the right amount. Apply two finger-lengths to the face and neck and massage it in until it’s fully absorbed.
With that, you can consider yourself set up for success — because everyone deserves good skin.