Although women are the primary demographic for the skin care industry, there is a significant market for men as well. More men are using skin care products for self care and anti-aging benefits. Entire lines are now dedicated to men’s products, with claims they are specifically formulated for men’s skin. That might be a good way to get men started on a skin care regimen, but my favorite products tend to be gender-neutral, even if the scent can sometimes be more feminine. In fact, I tend to avoid skin care geared towards men because they often smell like cologne. As a young man still in the infant stages of my skin care education, these are some of my favorite products I’ve come across that have effective and innovative ingredients while also holding curb appeal for men.
1. Young Pharmaceuticals BAK Day Care Oil
BAK Day Care Oil uses probiotics to balance the skin microbiome and improve skin health to make the skin calmer, softer and stronger. I love this face oil for how it makes my skin feel soft and even toned. Use with other products that contain probiotics and are free of preservatives. I like to use BAK’s probiotic cleanser before the day care oil to get the most out of the two products. Be sure to follow up with a microbiome balancing, preservative-free moisturizer!
2. TiZO Gentle Amino Gel Cleanser
TiZO’s Gentle Amino Gel Cleanser is proof that this brand is great for more than just sunscreen. This cleanser contains a nourishing blend of 11 amino acids formulated in a clear, gentle gel that hydrates and soothes as it cleanses. The gel feels great on the skin and a little goes a long way. My face always feels refreshed and hydrated, ready for the rest of my routine. The cleanser is also pH balanced, allowing you to skip a toner if you want (I still like to use a hydrating toner).
3. Naderma NAD+ Daily Moisturizing Cream
Naderma's NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) Daily Moisturizing Cream contains probiotics, antioxidants and snail mucin. NAD+ is an organic coenzyme found within cells that is responsible for cell energy, DNA repair and DNA transcription. The NAD+ cream also contains soothing neutral pH Vitamin C to balance uneven skin tone and plump skin for enhanced radiance. But the true star ingredient here is snail secretion filtrate. Snail mucin is incredibly hydrating and has regenerative benefits, with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties to help soothe skin.
4. SkinMedica HA-5 Rejuvenating Hydrator
SkinMedica’s HA-5 Rejuvenating Hydrator serum is a favorite of mine for its instant hydration. It contains a proprietary mix of 5 types of hyaluronic acid (HA) that smooth the skin and decrease the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, including sodium hyaluronate, nano HA, cross-linked HA, uncross-linked HA and Time Release HA (SkinMedica proprietary ingredient for sustained release of hyaluronic acid). Hydrating serums are one way to convert any doubter to take up a skin care routine. The instant hydration from a great hyaluronic acid serum is what keeps me coming back to my routine twice daily. Wet your finger with cold water before applying to activate the HA, allowing for quicker and more effective absorption.