The Best Men's Skincare Brands In 2023

Men’s skincare is one of the largest growing industries of this decade so far, so men, listen up because it is time to get on board. Gone are the days where you can just wash your face with water and be done with it; that is no longer enough. Personal skin care and body pride is well and truly in and based on what we know, it is here to stay. 

The world of skincare may seem a little complex,, but we promise that it really isn’t that scary. With just a few simple steps, your skin can be transformed, and we can pretty much guarantee that you’ll look and feel so much better that you’ll never want to look back. Plus, having great skin really can (and will) help you impress the lads or ladies in your life. 

You may not know that men’s skin is actually pretty different to women’s. Men have larger pores and in general, much thicker skin than women that requires a different skincare approach. Men often tend to suffer from a lot of acne/breakouts, and also have a lot more facial hair to consider, which requires alternative grooming tactics. And although shaving can work to exfoliate the skin, the process can also be super drying, despite males’ high oil production. We get that it may seem like a lot, but not to worry, we’ve got you covered. 

The first important step in a skincare routine is to wash the face with a great cleanser, morning and night. Cleansers help to remove dirt/grime and refresh the skin for the day ahead. Follow this up with exfoliation once or twice per week. Exfoliators help to give the skin a deeper clean to prevent breakouts (which is particularly important for those of you who might be acne prone). Depending on your shaving habits, soothing shave creams and aftershaves can help tremendously. The next essential step is moisture. Whether this is an all-around superstar moisturizer or separate day/night cream, this step is super important for skin hydration, smoothness and satisfaction. Follow this up with a protective SPF and then you’ll be good to go. 

To simplify the process for you, we have created a list of what are, in our opinion, the best men’s skincare brands on the market. You can’t really go wrong with any of these brands,  as they are specifically designed to optimize male skin, ensuring you can tackle your routine with ease. It may seem tempting in the moment to borrow your sister or your girlfriend’s products, but trust us, you’ll be so much more satisfied when you make the decision to level up your life and develop a skincare routine of your own. 

Step into the world of skincare with us today, and discover the men’s skincare brands we recommend investing in this year. These will become your skin saviors, and if you stick with them, you’ll experience the benefits. Although you probably won’t wake up tomorrow looking like Henry Cavill or Zac Efron (unfortunately), you will definitely feel better. And hopefully, you’ll age just like George Clooney, like a fine wine.

1. Blu Atlas

Blu Atlas is a brand at the top of their game, and is changing the face of men’s skincare. Founded in New York in 2019, they are still relatively new to the market, but their rapid and early success and cult following online would suggest that they are a brand to get excited about.

What we love about Blu Atlas is that they are clean, vegan, cruelty-free, paraben-free and preservative free, using between 96-100% natural ingredients in every single product. The majority of their premium ingredients come from plants, and so contain an abundance of vitamins and minerals that your skin will love. All Blu Atlas ingredients are also scientifically vetted and proven by dermatologists to work specifically for the needs of male skin. Blu Atlas are on a mission to simplify male skincare and reduce the number of chemicals we put on our faces, a valiant aim in which they are clearly succeeding. Plus, Blu Atlas are so confident their products will work, they offer a money-back guarantee for anyone who isn’t satisfied (although we’re pretty confident this is rarely necessary). 

The Blu Atlas packaging is minimalist yet elegant, and we love the cobalt blue that is somehow so calming yet energizing at the same time. Some of the Blu Atlas best-sellers include their Volcanic Ash Face Cleanser and Classic Face Moisturizer, both of which could be the stars of your daily routine. They come recommended for their superior ability to hydrate and rejuvenate your skin. Other great products include their calming and soothing Shave Cream and Aftershave, as well as their deliciously evocative cologne; Atlantis. For those of you who want more, Blu Atlas also sells a great vitamin C serum, an anti-aging Eye Stick and even restorative Hair and Skin Gummies. There really is something for everyone. 

If you’re not really sure where to start, what type of skin you have or what you need, Blu Atlas has a skin quiz on their website that can point you in the right direction. It takes less than two minutes to complete, and once you do, you’ll be well on your way. To make things even easier and to take the hassle out of continuing your skincare routine, you can even choose to subscribe to Blu Atlas and renew your products over a time frame that is convenient for you, saving 20% off each purchase every time. 

2. Triumph & Disaster

Triumph & Disaster is a skincare brand for men that started in New Zealand in 2011, but has expanded to be available worldwide. The founder, Dion Nash, is a passionate believer that aspiring for healthy skin is a worthy endeavor, and that it is meaningful for men to have daily rituals and to take pride in their appearance. Men should be able to look after their skin and feel good about that practice, because how you look after yourself is as good an indicator as any for how you do anything else in your life. 

All of the Triumph & Disaster products are created with care using only natural ingredients, with the best constituents sourced from around the world like New Zealand Horopito, Australian Kakadu Plum and Jojoba extract from Mexico. The process is highly scientific, with only the most effective ingredients included in the final formulations, leading to the creation of clean green products that work for you and your skin. Less really is more. 

The Old Fashioned Shave Cream, Ritual Face Cleanser and Game Face Moisturizer are some of our favorite Triumph & Disaster products, all of which are conveniently offered in both tubes and tubs so you can choose whichever best suits your lifestyle, or have one for at home and one for on the go. These three are also offered as a convenient miniature set so you can test the products before committing to the regular size. 

Triumph & Disaster are very well known for their hair and beard products as well, with great shampoos and styling products on offer. The bespoke smell of Triumph & Disaster is also something that keeps us reaching for more as it is an old-fashioned aroma that is both exotic and classic. 

3. Oars + Alps

Fitness fanatics, gym junkies, adventure aficionados and outdoor oarsmen: we are talking to you. Oars + Alps is a peak men’s skincare brand that delivers powerful results for the active man. They use strictly clean ingredients such as Amazonian clay, activated charcoal, vitamin E, prebiotics and alpine moss, all of which are known to support and fuel the body. Benefits galore. 

Oars + Alps was created by two women who wanted a solution that would be suitable for their active husbands. They wanted something that could look after their skin and protect them from the effects of sun, sweat, dirt and grime. Oars + Alps have everything covered from the face, body and hair to natural deodorant, muscle recovery balm and sunscreen. Their goal is to create simple but effective products that can seamlessly become part of your everyday on-the-go lifestyle. Oars + Alps is so good it feels like a natural second skin. 

Our thoughts on Oars + Alps are that it has a clean scent and a refreshing feel, and that this runs true across the entire range, whether you’re using the Invigorating Shampoo, the Solid Charcoal Face Wash or the Everyday Anti-Aging Moisturizer. The natural (aluminum-free) deodorants are exceptional, and are highly effective at removing odor for the entire day, while still managing to feel super light. They come in six sensational scents (like Aspen Air and Fresh Ocean Splash), all of which feel fresh yet rugged. The Oars + Alps sunscreens are also breaking barriers in the world of SPF, as all their options are rich in vitamins and minerals to nourish and soothe your skin and enhance your natural defenses while also providing broad spectrum UV protection. We’re big fans of the Hydrating Antioxidant SPF 50 Spray. 

Oars + Alps even have a new Athlete line that is specially designed to promote hard training and proper recovery, supporting your body along the way. The active range consists of a Muscle Recovery Balm designed to support sore muscles, an Anti-Everything Body Powder that works to absorb sweat and prevent chafing, and an Epsom Salt Bar Soap that works with Arnica and Shea Butter to relieve muscle pain and promote skin hydration. Everything is straightforward and effective, designed to support you, and not get in your way. 

Personally, as people who love to exercise and live our lives to the fullest, we are huge fans of Oars + Alps and we reckon that you will be too. A very well deserved third place on our recommendation for the Best Men’s Skincare Brands this year. 

4. Kiehl’s

Kiehl’s knows the difference between male and female skin, and they have created a comprehensive skincare range targeted specifically towards men that really is magnificent. Kiehl’s skincare for men will make your skin look and feel healthier thanks to its basis in science and commitment to natural ingredients, and will also be able to tackle any skin issues you may have.

Many men suffer from overly oily skin and high amounts of sweat due to high testosterone levels, so to combat this, one of the great products by Kiehl’s is their Oil Eliminator 24-Hour Anti-Shine Moisturiser for Men. This product uses AeroGel, Totara Wood Extract and Glycerin to absorb sweat, reduce shine and minimize pores, leaving the skin feeling ultra clean and smooth. 

Other excellent products we recommend include the Facial Fuel Energizing Face Wash, which uses a combination of Caffeine, Menthol and Vitamin E for instant refreshment and revitalization, and also the Facial Fuel Energizing Moisture Treatment for Men which incorporates chestnut, soy, vitamin C and vitamin E to energize the skin and improve texture and radiance. We also highly rate the Kiehl’s “Close-Shavers Squadron” which is their answer to shaving with sensitive skin. This shave cream uses soothing Sesame Oil and aloe vera to hydrate the skin, allow for a smooth close shave and minimize irritation. 

The Kiehl’s brand is also a great one to get behind due to their commitment to the planet. Kiehl’s is working to help formulate a better future by creating responsible formulas, using renewable raw ingredients and improving the sustainability of their packaging and materials, and they continue to take steps forward every day. They take responsibility for their actions and are actively contributing to building a better world, so if that’s something that you wish to support and be a part of, choosing Kiehl’s might just be one small step in the right direction. 

5. Jack Black

First of all, no, this brand of skincare is not created by the Jack Black we all know and love, however yes, it is just as manly, and just as good at what it does. Well-named, we reckon. 

Jack Black has been around for more than 20 years, so you can trust that their authentic and original products are going to do the job. They were one of the first brands to start creating skincare products just for men, and they pride themselves on listening to the needs of their customers to give them what they want, and avoid what they don’t. The result: effectual no-nonsense skincare products that work as promised.

Only the best ingredients are included in Jack Black’s products, with nothing overly complicated or cosmetic. Real ingredients lead to real results. Nourishing natural botanicals and herbs are included in highly advanced forms for the most efficient delivery. Some ingredients loved by Jack Black (and by us) include argan oil for its ability to hydrate, watermelon seed oil for the way it works to restore and nourish, jojoba oil for its superior softening abilities and plum seed oil to protect and strengthen. Vitamins A, C and E also have regular appearances in the Jack Black range, as well as niacinamide (vitamin B3) thanks to its powerful antioxidant properties. 

Our Jack Black favorites include the Pure Clean Daily Facial Cleanser, the Cool Moisture Body Lotion, the Double Duty SPF 20 Face Moisturizer and the Intense Therapy Lip Balm, and if you choose to invest in all of these products, we can promise that your routine will be off the charts. Also, we love that Jack Black has such an excellent lip balm for men, because this is something that typically tends to be forgotten about for males - but boy is it important, right?

Jack Black has so much to choose from to best suit your needs and preferences, with each product jam-packed full of incredible ingredients for the skin and hair. They even offer five different scents, ranging from Deeply Masculine Black Reserve and Captivating Blue Midnight to Energizing Turbo, each one as good as the last, so you can find the signature scent that works for you. 

6. Hims

Hims are the leaders in online personal wellness for men. They provide you with the opportunity to start taking care of yourself from the comfort of your home by offering free online consultations with licensed healthcare providers. You simply need to jump online and answer a few short questions about your goals, needs or issues, and Hims will then connect you with a health professional who can tailor make an effective personalized treatment plan. Real medications and skincare solutions are available and more accessible than ever before, with free shipping or prescriptions right to your doorstep. Hims have cut out all of the middle men, simplifying the process of looking after yourself and allowing you to start your health journey whenever you are ready. 

If you’re struggling with dry skin or acne, or are looking to reduce visible signs of aging, Hims can prescribe you with a Custom Acne or Anti-Aging Cream that is designed to suit your skin. Depending on your consultation, Hims will incorporate up to five prescription ingredients such as exfoliating tretinoin and bacteria fighting clindamycin in the ratios that will work the best for you. Let us tell you, the reviews make it pretty clear that people have been happy with their results. 

If you don’t need personalized care but are still seeking skincare products that are proven by dermatologists to be effective, Hims can also provide these for you with their incredible range. Their High Tide Hydrating Daily Cleanser uses hyaluronic acid green tea extract and squalane to remove grime and provide supreme hydration while also balancing the skin thanks to its skin-matching pH of 5. Get ready for a deep clean. The Everyday Moisturizer for Men also uses hyaluronic acid, alongside panthenol and shea butter to hydrate, soothe and smooth. Meanwhile, the Vitamin C Serum takes things to the next level, providing unparalleled restoration and skin radiance thanks to its antioxidant power. We love its delightful orange scent too. We also cannot forget Hims’ Goodnight Wrinkle Cream, which works the night shift on your wrinkles using caffeine to reduce inflammation. It all works wonders, and it is easier than it has ever been. Plus, you can get all of these products on subscription so once you’ve got it sorted, you won’t even need to think!

Plus, in case you need help in other areas, Hims have got you covered there too. 

7. Clinique For Men

Feel like a true gentleman with Clinique for Men. 

Clinique is one of the most well-known names in skincare so it really shouldn’t be a surprise that they make a feature on our list of the Best Men’s Skincare Brands. The Clinique for Men range is engineered to work with mature male skin, and is developed by dermatologists for the creation of products you can trust. 

The entire selection of products has great reviews, however our top picks would have to be the Exfoliating Tonic and Moisturizing Lotion. The exfoliating tonic makes skin feel clearer than ever before, changing the texture and leaving a much smoother feel after even one use. Pores are cleaned and oil is wiped away, perfectly preparing the skin’s surface for a smooth and easy shave. The Moisturizing Lotion is also impressive, feeling light yet luxurious, leaving the skin feeling both strong and soft. When applied after shaving, irritation is prevented to produce satisfying, soothing results. 

The smell of the entire Clinique for Men range is not too aggressively musky or masculine, instead incorporating subtle notes of citrus and mint that are universally well-loved and perfectly suited for modern men. From our experience with these products, we found the entire range to be super lightweight and quick to absorb, making it a desirable choice for many who might be uncertain about starting a skincare routine. The packaging of Clinique For Men is also perfectly suited, with a stylish yet simple gun-metal gray that will go well in any toilet bag or any bathroom shelf. 

8. two dudes

two dudes is another men’s brand originating from New Zealand that is absolutely crushing it in the world of skincare. The brand was founded in 2020 by (you guessed it) two dudes who recognised that men want to look after themselves better, and saw the need for the process to be less complicated and more accessible. Enter two dudes, a premium men’s skincare range with a built in easy routine. 

two dudes are a brand with a mission to champion men’s health, and are doing incredible work partnering with a number of men’s organizations (like Fix Up Look Sharp and Men’s Health NZ) to make a real difference in the world. 10% of the profits from every two dudes purchase is donated to charity, so when you support this brand and make the decision to support your skin, you can feel like you are looking after your mates and having a wider impact at the same time. 

All of the two dudes products are made locally in New Zealand from only the finest natural constituents. Sweet almond oil, charcoal, grapefruit, avocado, ginseng, cucumber and coffee are just a few of the powerhouse ingredients two dudes use to get the most out of your skin. And what's great is that two dudes is suitable for everyone, as according to them, any dude with a face will benefit. Whether your skin is sensitive or oily, whether you’re an athlete or a stay at home dad, they thinkthat it’s worth giving them a go. 

And it really is simple, taking just two steps, two minutes, twice per day. You can do that right? 

Step one: Cleanse. 

Step two: Moisturize. 

And if you happen to want step three: Scrub.

Easy as that. 

Despite the fact that they are pretty new on the market, two dudes have a bounty of five star reviews online so people are starting to notice. Reviewers love the great green bottles, report a magical feel on skin and amazing results, with one person claiming he felt like a new man. two dudes also won multiple Beard awards in 2022, including Best New Brand, Best Social Enterprise and Best Moisturizer for their rejuvenating Night Cream, so if that doesn’t turn heads, we don’t know what will. 

9. Jack Henry

Jack Henry is a men’s skincare brand based out of Costa Mesa, California. They pride themselves on the creation of simple, elegant products, using as few elements as possible to maximize the potential of each natural ingredient. Each of the selected ingredients incorporated in Jack Henry’s products has been chosen from specific sustainable and eco-certified locations around the world to ensure the highest quality inclusions, while each combination of ingredients has been well thought out to ensure they can work together in tandem and give you the real results you seek. 

Another great feature of Jack Henry is their packaging. All of Jack Henry’s jars and bottles are sustainably made from a combination of amber and black biophotonic glass that works to protect your products from the damaging effects of UV rays. Doing so ensures that your ingredients maintain their form and function for as long as your product lasts, because Jack Henry is committed to giving you an experience of the highest quality. Not only that, the external packaging is sleek, sexy and minimalist. 

The whole range is extremely high caliber, but some of the products that stood out to us the most were the Super Face Cream and the Prebiotic Deodorant. The face cream is overflowing with goodness guaranteed to give you happier skin, and the prebiotic deodorant fights odor and feeds skin microbes to give you long lasting protection and stability. Often there is fear that natural deodorants cannot do the same job as the ones you may be used to using, but trust us, with Jack Henry you really are safe and protected all day. 

Jack Henry’s foray into fragrance is also pretty magnificent with their new product; balance. The fragrance is designed to have a positive impact on stress, mood and even sleep and will help you find your balance thanks to the inclusion of ingredients like amber, patchouli, musk and mandarin. 

For the Best Skincare Brands for Men, Jack Henry was an easy choice. If you’re willing to make an investment in yourself and your skin, and you’re after premium skincare from a brand who is committed to only the best, look no further than Jack Henry. 

10. Anthony

Anthony have been at the forefront of innovation and technology in men’s skincare since the year 2000 after deciding they wanted better options for their own personal grooming. From a brand that has been in the game for more than two decades, you should expect greatness, and luckily that is exactly what you’ll get. Anthony’s products deliver performance through the use of natural ingredients and technology specifically for men. It really is no surprise that when you scroll through their website, most of Anthony’s best selling products are decorated with awards. 

Some of their best-selling, award-winning products include their Glycolic Exfoliating and Resurfacing Wipes, the Exfoliating and Cleansing Bar, the Glycolic Facial Cleanser and the Facial Scrub, the last of which happens to be our favorite. Clearly Anthony is known for their superior exfoliation! The Facial Scrub is super gentle but highly successful at removing dead skin and grime and preventing ingrown hairs. This is thanks to the inclusion of white sand from Bora Bora (how tropical is that?) alongside vitamin C and aloe vera, which will leave your face fresh and new. The Facial Scrub is also an energetic orange color that will bring you joy every single time you use your bottle, but make sure you only exfoliate once or twice per week, no matter how tempting it may be. 

Another unique product created by Anthony is their No Sweat Body Defense. This nourishing lotion will help you tackle your sweat (anywhere on your body) with ease thanks to the incorporation of sweat-wicking tapioca starch alongside soothing aloe vera and macadamia nut oil. The tapioca starch creates a barrier that prevents chafing, while the other ingredients condition and soothe the skin to make you feel silky smooth. It’s the perfect cooling solution for a humid work day in a tight suit, any hot day in the middle of summer or during exercise. This product also has a rather delightful cucumber and citrus scent that we can’t help but love.