It doesn't matter how good your ugly sneakers look or how well that nice Prada shirt you bought yourself fits you, if you're not happy with how your skin looks you're never going to feel entirely comfortable.
In the past, there was a certain stigma attached to skincare for men — but that's no longer really the case. Now, the only thing that stands between you and a killer skincare regime is how you decide to spend your hard-earned. Do you opt for another pair of sneakers, or rather a nice moisturizer to keep your mug looking fresh and supple? A Gucci accessory, or an entire arsenal of skincare weapons to get you looking your best?
Most people know they should be taking better care of their skin, but the problem is that they don't know what products they actually need nor from whom to buy them. So, whether you're starting from scratch or looking for the final piece in your skincare routine puzzle, we've rounded up eight essential skincare for men products every Highsnobiety reader should own, alongside a good suggestion for each one. Check them out below.
Facial Cleanser
This mild olive-derived cleanser from Aesop contains both purifying and hydrating botanicals to gently cleanse your face without stripping away your skin's essential oils. It's suitable for all skins types but works best throughout the warmer seasons. Apply a small amount to your fingertips and work to a lather all around your face and neck, paying particular attention to your nose and forehead. Use once or twice daily before toning (we'll get to that) and moisturizing.
Exfoliator
An exfoliator should be used two or three times a week instead of your usual cleanser. Kiehl's Facial Fuel Energizing Scrub sloughs away dead skin and impurities to leave your face feeling soft and smooth. Its menthol and caffeine blend formula will also alleviate roughness and break down tough facial hair for a closer shave.
Toner
For those who don't already use one, toners contain cleansing ingredients that help sweep away deep-lying impurities and minimize the appearance of your pores. To use, simply splash it on a cotton pad and apply all over your face — just watch your eyes. Get in the habit of toning every day in between cleansing and moisturizing.
This energizing facial tonic from Khiel's is particularly good, using a mixture of caffeine, vitamins C and E, and bamboo extract to sooth and restore the natural pH balance of your skin.
Moisturizer
Bateman Skincare's daily moisturizer, like any good moisturizer, rejuvenates and conditions the skin for a more vibrant and youthful appearance. What sets this one apart from others, however, is the addition of hyaluronic acid, a crucial natural acid found within our bodies but one that diminishes as we age. The acid is combined with squalane (vegan), jojoba oil and apricot oil to create this luxurious lotion.
Sunscreen
No matter what the weather looks like outside, you need to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. EltaMD's UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 is the go-to choice for Justin Bieber; and if it's good enough for him, the biggest pop star on earth, well, it's good enough for you and me. It's also recommended by dermatologists because it won't clog your pores and its formula contains niacin amide and hyaluronic acid to promote healthy-looking skin.
Body Cleanser
Named after the famous German explorer of the same name, Heinrich Barth is one of Europe's up-and-coming independent grooming and skincare labels. This rich, lathering and revitalizing body cleanser not only leaves your skin feeling superbly soft but its fruity aroma also leaves you and your shower smelling like a luxurious tropical forest.
Hand Lotion
While its collab with OFF-WHITE is the biggest news around the brand right now, Byredo's line of hand creams are the quiet touch of luxury you really need in your pocket at this time of year. Each cream combines one of the brand's signature scents with a light yet nourishing cream to hydrate and soften your hands throughout the day.
Lip Balm
MAKE's Marine Salve gender neutral lip cream soothes and heals cracked, dry, cut and irritated lips while protecting against pollution, heavy metals and free radical damage. Better yet, you can also use on your hands, face and anywhere else that needs a little extra care.
Now check out our favorite pieces from Raf Simons's SS18 collection.
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