The vast world of skincare products doesn’t exist solely for women. Though many men throw a bar of soap in the cart and consider themselves set, there are actually several diverse products you need to include in your routine. Caring for your skin now will help you maintain a soft and kissable face for decades into the future.

Moisturizer

Men often skip over moisturizers, but these are a valuable addition to your skin care program. If you have dry skin, a moisturizer will dramatically change the look and feel of your skin. There are several ways to incorporate proper moisturizing into your day. A moisturizing liquid cleanser is the fastest and easiest option. If you have oily or combination skin, use a cleanser than contains glycolic acid, benzyl peroxide, or salicylic acid to clean out pores and prevent acne.

If you have dry skin or use a bar soap in the shower, which tends to dry you out, use a separate moisturizer. Those with dry skin should opt for a rich cream. Try a lotion for normal skin and a gel or toner for oily skin.

Shaving Cream

Image via Flickr by stef thomas

While you probably know all about slathering on a shaving cream, if you’ve never read the label, your product of choice may do more damage than good. Many products contain alcohol as a main ingredient, which will irritate your skin, making shaving a less-than-luxurious process. To keep your skin soft, smooth, and comfortable, try a glycerin-based product instead.

If your skin is easily irritated, try a gel instead of a cream or lotion. If you prefer a soapy lather, look for an alcohol-free or low-alcohol product for a satisfying shave that won’t leave you with itchiness or discomfort later.

Exfoliant

A good exfoliant acts something like sandpaper, priming your skin for the finishing product. If a grainy product is too harsh on your skin, try a chemical exfoliating cleaner. Apply an exfoliant once or twice a week to slough off dead skin cells. Do this after you wash and before you moisturize and shave.

Aftershave

A quality aftershave is a perfect way to finish your shaving routine, but this product is another potential disaster if you don’t know what to look for. An astringent aftershave will dry up skin that’s already tight and dry from shaving. You shouldn’t be using aftershave as a replacement for cologne. Rather, you should choose a product that will soothe your skin after a good shave.

To moisturize and heal your skin, try a post-shave toner, like the TOLSOM Refreshing Toning Lotion from Amway. It features moisturizing and oil-controlling ingredients to smooth your skin and minimize irritation.

Face Wash

You should begin and end the day with a fragrance-free face wash. Avoid a bar soap that will dry out your skin, leaving it tight and uncomfortable. Instead, opt for a liquid cleanser formulated for your skin tone.

While you’ll find plenty of products in macho packaging with labels assuring you that they’re “for men,” it’s worth noting that cleansers don’t really differentiate between sex. If you’re having trouble finding a product that works for you, consider trying that favorite product that your wife or girlfriend uses. The pink packaging won’t hurt you, and you may discover a formula that’s better suited to your face.

Sunscreen

Sun protection should be an essential part of your daily skin care regimen. If your moisturizer has sun protection in it, this will keep you covered first thing in the morning. Keep in mind, however, that you must reapply sunscreen every two hours for it to stay effective. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Find a spray or lotion that you like and keep a bottle on hand any time you’re out in the sun. Driving time counts, so apply before your commute too.

If your daily and weekly skincare habits have been lacking some of these items, start re-supplying your bathroom now. A little counter clutter is a small price to pay for the dramatic improvement you can see with an upgrade to the right skincare products.