Beauty
Men's Moisturiser: How To Build a Hydrating Skincare Routine
10 Apr '25
5 min read
Whether you're a skincare novice or a seasoned pro — discover why a hydrating moisturiser is important for an everyday skincare routine. From combating dryness to soothing post-shave skin, we explore the benefits of men's moisturiser.
Skincare is the cornerstone of self-care, and a quality face moisturiser is the MVP of any grooming routine. Whether you’re tackling dryness, post-shave irritation, or just want your skin to look and feel its best, a men’s moisturiser is a no-brainer.
We asked the men in our lives about their skincare routines, and the answers were varied. Some stick to a splash of water and hope for the best, others dabble with products when they need to, and a few are full-on skincare pros with comprehensive routines.
Whatever you do to keep your skin in tip-top shape, let’s break down why moisturiser is a must-have, the types out there, and how to find the perfect one for you.
Confused where to start? We've got you covered.
First things first – get to know your skin. Are you dry, oily, or somewhere in between? Got any specific concerns, like uneven tone or blackheads? Knowing your skin’s vibe is the secret to picking the right products and keeping it happy.
What are the benefits of using a moisturiser for men?
Hydration and skin health
Every day, your skin faces a variety of environmental stressors, from harsh weather to pollution. A quality men’s moisturiser replenishes hydration, helping to keep your skin soft, smooth, and healthy.
Prevention of dryness
Dry, flaky skin doesn’t just look unappealing – it can also feel super uncomfortable! Regular use of a hydrating moisturiser locks in moisture and prevents dryness leaving your skin looking and feeling 10/10.
Soothes shaving irritation
It’s no secret that shaving can leave skin feeling raw and irritated. A soothing men’s moisturiser with natural oils or calming ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile and Vitamin E can repair and protect post-shave skin.
Slows down the aging process
If you're looking to combat signs of aging you should go for one that's packed with nourishing, strengthening and hydrating ingredients. Squalane and hyaluronic acid work wonders to plump and hydrate, while Vitamin C boosts radiance, visibly evens out skin tone, and shields your skin from environmental stressors. Peptides help tighten, and retinol smooths out the look of fine lines. Retinol’s a game-changer for reducing the appearance of wrinkles and skin texture as you age.
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What are the different formulations?
Creams
Rich and hydrating, creams are ideal for men with normal to dry skin. They’re particularly effective in colder months or dry climates, offering deep hydration.
Gels
Lightweight and fast-absorbing, gels are perfect for men with oily or combination skin. A men’s moisturising gel delivers hydration without a greasy feel, making it an ideal option for warmer, balmy climates.
Balms
Balms are designed to repair and protect very dry or sensitive skin. They’re also perfect for soothing irritation caused by shaving, eliminating the 'ouch factor'. Forget painful razor burn, balms soothe minor nicks and redness, while hydrating the skin for an ultra-smooth finish.
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How to choose the right moisturiser for you
Consider your skin type:
Dry skin: Opt for a rich cream with ingredients that target dry skin and lock in hydration.
Oily skin: Look for a lightweight men’s moisturiser that won’t clog pores and mattifies problem areas.
Sensitive skin: Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic options with soothing ingredients like oats and aloe vera [1] are best for skin that needs a gentler approach.
Adapt to your climate
In humid environments, lightweight gels are ideal, while colder climates call for thicker creams to combat dryness and act as a protective shield.
Key ingredients for effective moisturisation
For intense hydration, look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid [2], glycerin, or ceramides. Natural oils such as jojoba or argan oil nourish and protect the skin barrier.
Try our skincare routine steps
Self-care can be anything. Your gym routine, your meal prep, a relaxing trip to the farmers market on a Saturday morning. Skincare is an important part of looking after yourself too. And your skincare routine doesn’t have to take forever – minutes in the morning and even less at night is all you need. The result? Skin that feels fresh, smooth, and perfectly hydrated. Here’s a quick rundown to get you started: consider this the basics.
1. Cleanse
Wash, rinse, repeat – morning and night, as the first step in your regimen. Do it as soon as you wake up, and after a long day’s buildup of sweat, oil, and SPF.
The key is finding a face wash that works with your skin’s unique needs – be it hydration levels, seasonal changes, aging concerns, acne [3], or sensitivity. Understanding these factors will help you choose the right cleanser that’s targeted to you, while keeping your skin looking and feeling its best.
2. Exfoliate
Exfoliating regularly, about twice a week, is essential for a smooth, vibrant complexion. It works by removing dead skin cells and clearing out clogged pores. If you have facial hair, you might notice more oiliness and congestion due to the number of follicles.
Keeping up with exfoliation helps maintain the skin beneath your beard, reducing dead skin buildup and tackling issues like ingrown hairs and razor bumps. If you feel like going the extra mile, we recommend a face mask too (the compliments on your skin will make it worth it!).
3. Moisturise
Ideally you should be using two different types of moisturisers. One for the streets, and one for the sheets. What’s the difference? The first moisturiser of the day should be light yet hydrating, and include a touch of SPF (used in conjunction with your other every day sunscreen [4], FYI). Your night moisturiser will ideally be thicker, and include anti-aging ingredients like retinol if you’re not using it separately.
4. SPF
We know, we know, we sound like a broken record. But it’s that important! And don’t forget to reapply during the day, even if you’ve got an office job. Ducking in between stations and coffee shops on the way to work means you're still vulnerable to sun damage. Make sure you ask the team in-store at your nearest Chemist Warehouse for expert advice on sunscreen too*.
Explore men's self-care at Chemist Warehouse
Your skincare routine starts here. Chemist Warehouse offers a wide range of men’s face moisturisers to suit every skin type and concern. From budget-friendly essentials to premium products, you’ll find the perfect match for your needs.
Discover brands like Natio for Men, Nivea for Men, L’Oréal Men Expert, and Bulldog Skincare for the best men’s moisturiser options.
Ready to elevate your skincare routine? Explore men’s moisturisers today and discover the secret to healthy, hydrated skin. Not sure what’s right for you? It can be overwhelming, we recommend visiting our friendly experts in-store at a Chemist Warehouse for a more in-depth chat!
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References
[1] DermNet New Zealand. Aloe vera and the skin. https://dermnetnz.org/topics/aloe-vera-and-the-skin
[2] Neutrogena Australia. Hyaluronic acid benefits for skin. https://www.neutrogena.com.au/beauty-and-skin-care-tips/healthy-lifestyle/hyaluronic-acid-benefits-for-skin
[3] Better Health Channel (Victoria). Acne. https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/acne
[4] Health Direct. Sunscreen. https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/sunscreen
*Always read the label and follow the directions for use. Wear protective clothing, hats and eyewear when exposed to the sun. Prolonged sun exposure should be avoided. Frequent use and re-application in accordance with directions is required for effective sun protection.