More and more men are taking an interest in skincare, and right now one simple routine in particular is what counts. Skincare and soaps for men have long been associated with all-in-one products, aftershave and a random face cream from the bathroom shelf. That is now changing.
Interest in targeted skincare among men is growing, but that doesn’t necessarily mean the bathroom cabinet has to be filled with serums, acids and advanced treatments.
Quite the opposite. According to Pinterest’s trend report for men, it’s a simple three-step routine that’s now standing out: cleanser, moisturiser and sunscreen.
Men are searching more for skincare
Pinterest calls the trend “The Three-step Face”. It’s part of a larger movement the platform has named “Quiet Upkeep”. Here, beauty and grooming are less about extensive transformations and more about small, consistent routines that make you feel well-groomed in everyday life.
Figures from the report show that searches for men’s skincare products have increased by 280 per cent, while general searches for men’s skincare have risen by 165 per cent. Searches for sunscreen specifically aimed at men have also increased by 108 per cent, according to Personal Care Insights.This may suggest that more men want to take better care of their skin, but without spending unnecessary time or money on complicated routines.
Step one: A gentle cleanser
The first step is a facial cleanser that removes sweat, sunscreen, excess sebum and dirt.
Ordinary body soap can be too harsh for the face and leave the skin tight or dry. A gentle facial cleanser is therefore a better option, especially if your skin gets irritated after shaving.
For most people, cleansing the face in the evening is enough. If you have oily skin, exercise a lot or sweat during the night, it can also be a good idea to cleanse in the morning.
Still, avoid the feeling that your skin has to be completely “squeaky clean”. That can be a sign that the product is washing away more than is good for your skin.
We recommend this cleanser from Nilens Jord. Gentle and effective, perfect in the shower. NOK 299 HERE (Adlink)
Step two: Moisturiser
After cleansing, the skin needs moisture. A good moisturiser helps protect the skin barrier and can reduce dryness, tightness and irritation.
If you have oily or combination skin, a light gel cream may be sufficient. Dry skin may need a richer cream, especially as temperatures drop. A good product for dry skin could be this moisturiser from Kiehl’s, which provides lots of hydration, NOK 645 HERE (Adlink). It goes a long way and is a product that lasts!
If you’re looking for a lighter face cream that won’t make you oily, we recommend Clinique’s oil-free moisturiser, at NOK 455 HERE (Adlink)
Shaving can also make the skin more sensitive. It may then be wise to choose a fragrance-free cream with soothing and moisturising ingredients, rather than a heavily scented aftershave.
Step three: Sunscreen
The last step in the morning is sunscreen.
Sun protection may be associated first and foremost with beach holidays and hot summer days, but the skin is exposed to UV rays all year round. Daily sunscreen helps protect against sun damage and early signs of ageing.
Ideally, choose a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and broad-spectrum protection. If you dislike the feel of traditional sunscreen, there are lightweight facial products that absorb quickly and don’t leave the skin shiny or sticky.
We recommend CeraVe’s SPF50 for the face, just NOK 239 HERE (Adlink)
And Bioderma’s SPF30 for just NOK 299 HERE (Adlink), which also suits sensitive skin very well.
In the evening, skip the sunscreen and finish with moisturiser after cleansing.
The number of products isn’t what matters most
The growing interest in skincare doesn’t mean all men need the same routine. Acne, eczema, pigmentation or persistent irritation may require other products and professional advice.
For most people, however, a simple starting point is better than an overflowing bathroom cabinet. A gentle cleanser, a moisturiser and sunscreen cover the most basic needs. Three products and a few minutes a day, and you’re well on your way to skin that’s extra ready and happy for autumn!