There comes a time in every man’s life when he looks in the mirror and doesn’t like what stares back.
Tired eyes, sunken, dull skin, and a general loss of vitality is enough to make any man question what he can do to improve his skin health.
You figure you need some sort of moisturizer, but you may not be sure why and you certainly don’t know which one to buy.
With so many men’s skincare companies flooding the market, deciphering which moisturizer is effective and best for your skin is harder than ever.
Fret not, fellow man with tired skin. This article will show you how to throat punch your temperamental skin back into a healthy state so you can reverse early signs of aging and get your confidence back.
Skip Ahead
6 Best Men’s Moisturizers in 2023
Best Overall: Geologie Active Recovery Hydro-Gel
Geologie’s Active Recovery Hydro-Gel Moisturizer relies on a combination of four active ingredients to be effective: niacinamide, squalane, hyaluronic acid, and allantoin. The resulting formulation yields a lightweight gel cream that absorbs quickly and keeps moisture locked into the skin.
Niacinamide and squalane are especially effective at preventing aging and increasing the elasticity of the skin, which gives it a more plump, youthful look.
Hyaluronic acid deeply moisturizes the skin, and allantoin helps to reduce irritation and promote healing.
The Active Recovery Hydro-Gel is my top moisturizer because it’s the complete package. It hydrates and balances skin, works well for all skin types, reduces fine lines and wrinkles, and reduces irritation.
What I Like
Formulated with high-quality, active ingredients that aren’t just there for marketing purposes.
Lightweight, quick to use and to absorb so you’re not left with a heavy, greasy feeling.
Has a subscription option that reduces the price by 10% and auto restocks your supply every 90 days.
What I Don’t Like
It’s slightly more expensive than competing moisturizers, which may be prohibitive if you’re on a budget and looking to get started with a good moisturizer.
What Other Reviewers Say
Since the Active Recovery Hydro-Gel is a relatively new product, it doesn’t have many reviews. The few reviews there are all gave this moisturizer five stars, with many reviewers citing its ease of use and effective hydration.
The Verdict
If you’re looking for an easy and effective every day moisturizer, Geologie’s Active Recovery Hydro-Gel is an excellent choice. High-quality active ingredients and a light formulation make this the perfect full-package moisturizer for all skin types and all ages.
If you’re looking for an easy and effective every day moisturizer, Geologie’s Active Recovery Hydro-Gel is an excellent choice. High-quality active ingredients and a light formulation make this the perfect full-package moisturizer for all skin types and all ages.
Best on a Budget: Neutrogena Hydro Boost
If you want to try out an every day moisturizer but don’t want to break the bank, Neutrogena’s Hydro Boost is a great place to start. Hyaluronic acid will deeply hydrate your skin, and its oil-free, dye-free, non-comedogenic formulation will prevent skin irritation.
Neutrogena is a dermatologist-recommended brand with a reputation for affordable skincare products that pack a punch, and the Hydro Boost is no exception.
The formulation relies primarily on hyaluronic acid to effectively moisturize the skin. It’s made without oils and dyes and is non-comedogenic, which means it won’t clog your pores or cause irritation. This makes it a great option for those looking to dabble with a daily moisturizer, as it’s gentle for all skin types and won’t hurt your wallet if you decide it’s not for you.
The Hydro Boost is technically a water gel, which allows it to absorb quickly and smooth the skin’s texture. Unlike many competing moisturizers, the Hydro Boost has been clinically proven to moisturize skin for up to 48 hours.
Few skincare products are able to undergo clinical trials, which makes this affordable moisturizer even more impressive.
What I Like
An oil-free, dye-free, and non-comedogenic formulation makes this a safe choice for guys with sensitive skin.
It’s affordable and clinically proven to hydrate for 48 hours, maximizing the bang for your buck.
Uses hyaluronic acid, which is proven to hydrate deeply and smooth the skin tone.
What I Don’t Like
Doesn’t use natural ingredients apart from hyaluronic acid.
What Other Reviewers Say
The Hydro Boost has a massive amount of reviews, with the vast majority being positive. Common positive reviews reported the effective treatment of dry skin, ease of use, and gentle hydration that doesn’t irritate or clog pores.
There are also quite a few negative reviews, with reports of receiving fake products, products that don’t work, and intense irritation after use. Some of this could be due to fake products being sold through Amazon, so I recommend getting the Hydro Boost from an authorized, verified reseller of Neutrogena products or from Neutrogena itself.
The Verdict
If you want to try out an every day moisturizer but don’t want to break the bank, Neutrogena’s Hydro Boost is a great place to start. Hyaluronic acid will deeply hydrate your skin, and its oil-free, dye-free, non-comedogenic formulation will prevent skin irritation.
If you want to try out an every day moisturizer but don’t want to break the bank, Neutrogena’s Hydro Boost is a great place to start. Hyaluronic acid will deeply hydrate your skin, and its oil-free, dye-free, non-comedogenic formulation will prevent skin irritation.
Best for Dry Skin: Lumin Moisturizing Balm
If you need a heavy duty skin moisturizer for stubbornly dry skin, Lumin’s Moisturizing Balm is a great pick. Natural ingredients and a thick formulation help to hydrate the skin and restore its natural barrier, which will prevent it from getting dry in the future.
Some guys draw the short straw in the genetic lottery and end up with dry skin no matter what. If this sounds like you, you need to pull out the big guns and I recommend Lumin’s Moisturizing Balm.
“Balm” implies a heavier, thicker formulation than your average moisturizer and Lumin’s product doesn’t disappoint. Infused with apple and ginger extracts, these natural ingredients help to smooth fine lines and soften the signs of premature aging while penetrating deep into the skin’s layers to hydrate from within.
Lumin’s flagship moisturizer also uses meadowfoam seed oil, which is rich in antioxidants and helps to protect your skin from sun damage and environmental pollutants. This product packs a dual punch of deep hydration and environmental protection, which helps to lock moisture in and prevent dry skin from flaring up in the future.
The Moisturizing Balm is thick but spreads evenly, which allows it to absorb well without leaving your skin feeling greasy.
What I Like
Thick formulation with high-powered ingredients that will hydrate the most stubborn dry patches of skin.
Natural ingredients like apple and ginger extracts help to smooth and reduce signs of premature aging.
It’s affordable compared to many competing products.
What I Don’t Like
May not be the best choice for men with combination skin, that’s sometimes dry and sometimes oily.
Doesn’t include some of the best moisturizing ingredients, like hyaluronic acid.
What Other Reviewers Say
Reviews online for the Moisturizing Balm are overwhelmingly positive. Satisfied reviewers report a healthy glow to their skin and even several cases of psoriasis being treated through daily use.
Of the few negative reviews I could find, reviewers reported seeing no changes to their skin health and an oily feeling after application in a few cases.
The Verdict
If you need a heavy duty skin moisturizer for stubbornly dry skin, Lumin’s Moisturizing Balm is a great pick. Natural ingredients and a thick formulation help to hydrate the skin and restore its natural barrier, which will prevent it from getting dry in the future.
If you need a heavy duty skin moisturizer for stubbornly dry skin, Lumin’s Moisturizing Balm is a great pick. Natural ingredients and a thick formulation help to hydrate the skin and restore its natural barrier, which will prevent it from getting dry in the future.
Best for Oily Skin: Caldera + Lab’s The Base Layer
After a week of consistent use, the combination of The Good and The Base Layer has my skin looking noticeably younger. A furtive glance in the mirror reveals tighter skin that looks healthy and more resilient, basically poreless, and just a hint of glow.
On the other side of the spectrum from dry skin is overly oily skin. Most guys wouldn’t assume that oily skin can be remedied by moisturizing, but it’s in fact a crucial step in the process.
Oily skin is caused by excess sebum production. The factors causing excess sebum production vary, but the treatment is largely the same and requires a gentle moisturizer that can soothe the skin and help balance your skin environment.
Caldera + Lab is a skincare company that prides itself on the use of 100% vegan formulations and natural ingredients, and The Base Layer is no exception.
Made with fireweed, glacial mineral water, plant stem cells, and a host of other natural ingredients, this non-toxic moisturizer reduces inflammation while gently hydrating the skin.
It absorbs quickly and dries with a matte finish to keep you from the heavy, greasy feeling of oily skin. Caldera + Lab produces some of the most technical, nutrient-dense skincare products on the market, and The Base Layer is a great choice for balancing your skin environment.
What I Like
100% vegan, non-toxic formulation makes this a great choice for all skin types.
Potent, natural ingredients like fireweed, glacial mineral water, and plant stem cells have robust, healthy effects on the skin.
These organic ingredients are harvested through sustainable practices.
What I Don’t Like
It’s expensive compared to competing products, but that’s to be expected considering the quality of ingredients and formulation.
What Other Reviewers Say
The Base Layer has largely positive reviews, with many happy customers citing the matte finish and quick absorption. Others noted a healthy glow and less temperamental skin after consistent use.
Of the few negative reviews I could find, many customers reported a heavy feeling and sheen to their skin after application, even with using a tiny amount of the moisturizer.
The Verdict
If you’re looking to treat your skin to the best possible ingredients and formulations, Caldera + Lab’s The Base Layer is likely the best choice on the market. A toxin-free formulation and plethora of natural ingredients help to balance your skin environment and reduce sebum production, which will fix pesky, oily skin.
After a week of consistent use, the combination of The Good and The Base Layer has my skin looking noticeably younger. A furtive glance in the mirror reveals tighter skin that looks healthy and more resilient, basically poreless, and just a hint of glow.
Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Tiege Hanley ACNE Moisturizer
If you’ve struggled with mild to moderate acne and want an effective moisturizer to treat it, ACNE is a great place to start. Salicylic acid helps to clear your pores for hours at a time, and other natural ingredients help hydrate and reduce inflammation without leaving a greasy residue.
Speaking of people who have drawn the short straw in the genetic lottery, many of us still deal with acne.
For whatever reason, your skin is genetically preconditioned to have pores that clog more easily which leads to breakouts on a regular basis through no fault of your own. However, a good moisturizer can help with that, and Tiege Hanley has a product specifically for this purpose.
Wisely titled, ‘Tiege Hanley ACNE Moisturizer’ so that we don’t get confused, this moisturizer is formulated with salicylic acid. This helps to clean out clogged pores and shrink acne without you having to pop a pimple or otherwise mangle your face.
Most acne treatment skincare systems include salicylic acid in the face wash, which is effective, but not as effective as including it in a moisturizer. Why?
In a face wash, you simply wash your face and rinse away the soap and salicylic acid with water. With a moisturizer, however, you allow that salicylic acid to sit and do its job: kicking out stubborn pimples and making your pores squeaky clean.
This is what Tiege Hanley’s ACNE does best. They recommend applying it in the evening and letting it work its pimple-shrinking magic overnight so you can wake up and go about your day with confidence.
What I Like
The inclusion of salicylic acid allows this to work for 6-8 hours overnight, which reduces the severity of acne overnight.
Gentler on skin than most acne products and uses eucalyptus oil, willow bark extract, and rosemary oil to gently hydrate and reduce inflammation.
It’s a dermatologist-recommended product, which means it is endorsed by medical professionals and is effective in the most use cases.
What I Don’t Like
This moisturizer is designed to be bought as part of a skincare set, rather than as a standalone product. It’s more cost effective to purchase the whole skincare set than just ACNE, and this can be prohibitive to those looking for a cheap acne treatment.
What Other Reviewers Say
Tiege Hanley’s ACNE has a small number of reviews overall, but the reviews are positive. Almost all of the reviewers reported their acne clearing up with consistent use of this product, and noticed that their skin looked healthier and more even as well.
Of the few negative reviews I found, the major complaint centered on price. One reviewer noted that his acne had probably gotten worse after two months of use, but the vast majority of reviews said the opposite.
The Verdict
If you’ve struggled with mild to moderate acne and want an effective moisturizer to treat it, ACNE is a great place to start. Salicylic acid helps to clear your pores for hours at a time, and other natural ingredients help hydrate and reduce inflammation without leaving a greasy residue.
If you’ve struggled with mild to moderate acne and want an effective moisturizer to treat it, ACNE is a great place to start. Salicylic acid helps to clear your pores for hours at a time, and other natural ingredients help hydrate and reduce inflammation without leaving a greasy residue.
Best with SPF: Oars + Alps Everyday Anti-Aging Face Moisturizer With SPF 37
If you’re looking for a potent combination of moisturizing face cream and SPF, Oars + Alps’ SPF moisturizer is an excellent choice. SPF 37 ensures durable protection even with a high UV index, and high-quality ingredients like hyaluronic acid and Vitamins B5 and E reduce the signs of aging while keep your skin moisturized.
Life is filled with unfortunate ironies that we become more aware of as we age, like how sunshine makes us happy but also obliterates our skin. Thankfully, some smart folks have come up with daily moisturizers that have SPF so you can have your cake and eat it, too.
My top moisturizer with SPF is Oars + Alps’ Everyday Anti-Aging Face Moisturizer. Packing a punch with SPF 37, this moisturizer will keep your skin protected from harmful UV rays and hydrate it at the same time.
Formulated with hyaluronic acid and their proprietary Alpine Caribou Moss, these ingredients work in tandem to provide deep hydration and leave you skin smooth and even.
This sunscreen moisturizer uses zinc oxide, which allows the formulation to be light and absorb quickly without leaving a white, greasy residue. Vitamins B5 and E are also infused for their rich antioxidant properties, which helps to prevent signs of aging.
What I Like
SPF 37 ensures powerful protection from harmful UV rays for hours at a time.
High-quality ingredients like hyaluronic acid, Vitamin B5, and Vitamin E help to lock in moisture from the surrounding environment and prevent signs of aging.
Formulated with zinc oxide, which is much lighter and less oily than traditional sunscreen ingredients.
What I Don’t Like
The brand doesn’t tell you what Alpine Caribou Moss is. If you have a history of skin sensitivity this could deter you from purchasing this product.
What Other Reviewers Say
Oars + Alps’ Everyday SPF Moisturizer has a huge number of positive reviews, with the majority of reviewers loving that it absorbs quickly and doesn’t leave their skin greasy. Many commented that they use it on a daily basis without issue, and it effectively protects their skin from the sun.
I only found one negative review, and this reviewer noted that the Anti-Aging Face Moisturizer was too oily and didn’t absorb quickly.
The Verdict
If you’re looking for a potent combination of moisturizing face cream and SPF, Oars + Alps’ Moisturizer is an excellent choice. SPF 37 ensures durable protection even with a high UV index, and high-quality ingredients like hyaluronic acid and Vitamins B5 and E reduce the signs of aging while keep your skin moisturized.
If you’re looking for a potent combination of moisturizing face cream and SPF, Oars + Alps’ SPF moisturizer is an excellent choice. SPF 37 ensures durable protection even with a high UV index, and high-quality ingredients like hyaluronic acid and Vitamins B5 and E reduce the signs of aging while keep your skin moisturized.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Moisturizer
When it comes to choosing a moisturizer, the decision comes down to your individual skin environment and what conditions you may be trying to treat.
If you need a comprehensive, potent, everyday moisturizer to keep your skin healthy and your look young, I recommend Geologie’s Active Recovery Hydro-Gel. Robust, natural ingredients mix with a light formulation for ease of use and powerful results.
If you’re looking for a more nuanced moisturizer, reference the earlier sections of this article to find a product that fits your skincare needs.
Another consideration is price. If you have a small budget but still want to treat your skin well, Neutrogena’s Hydro Boost uses hyaluronic acid at an affordable price point.
If instead you want the very best ingredients and cost isn’t a consideration, take a look at Geologie’s Active Recovery Hydro-Gel or Caldera + Lab’s The Base Layer.
Should Men Use Moisturizer on a Daily Basis?
While you may think that moisturizing products are only for guys with dry skin, these facial serums and creams actually help with a host of other issues as well.
It’s true that moisturizers help to rehydrate dry skin, but more often than not guys will only use a moisturizer when their skin starts to flake and shed. Unfortunately, your skin can be dry and dehydrated well before you can make a mini blizzard from your dead skin cells.
Dehydrated skin is vulnerable skin. Without ample moisture to protect the sensitive skin on your face, wrinkles, fine lines, and oily skin have a much easier time taking root. These skin conditions can speed up the aging process of your skin, leaving your skin tired and deflated.
Using a daily moisturizer keeps your skin hydrated and reinforces the natural barrier your skin creates, which keeps out environmental toxins that can cause damage.
With the added benefits of balanced, revitalized skin and a youthful glow, moisturizing should be a part of every man’s daily routine.
Get Hydrated
Between these six moisturizers you should be able to find a product that works for you, whether that be an all-around, everyday product or something targeted for your specific skin condition.
If you want a top tier everyday moisturizer to prevent fine lines, hydrate well, and reduce inflammation you can’t go wrong with Geologie’s Active Recovery Hydro-Gel.
If you’re looking for an easy and effective every day moisturizer, Geologie’s Active Recovery Hydro-Gel is an excellent choice. High-quality active ingredients and a light formulation make this the perfect full-package moisturizer for all skin types and all ages.
Neutrogena’s Hydro Boost gets my top pick for an affordable and effective moisturizer, while Oars and Alps’ Everyday Anti-Aging Face Moisturizer is a great pick with SPF inclusion.
If you struggle with oily or dry skin, I recommend Caldera + Lab’s The Base Layer and Lumin’s Moisturizing Balm, respectively.
Last but not least, if you’re an unlucky bloke who struggles with acne, Tiege Hanleys’ ACNE moisturizer will give significant relief for mild to moderate acne conditions.
If you know a guy who could use a little moisturizer love in his life, share this article with him! He’ll thank you later when he looks a few years younger.
FAQs
Should men moisturize daily?
Men should moisturize on a daily basis, as this is the best way to maintain your skin’s natural barrier and prevent environmental damage to your skin that can cause premature aging.
What age should men start using moisturizer?
Men can begin moisturizing as early as 12, or any time after puberty. Starting this early instills good skincare habits and can help with the acne and oily skin that often accompanies the pubescent years.
How do men fix dry skin?
Men can fix dry skin by moisturizing daily, using a gentle facial cleanser, staying hydrated, using a humidifier in dry months or climates, and by exfoliating 2-3 times per week.
