Skip to Content

Best Face Moisturizers for Men: Top 8 Hydrating Picks for Every Skin Type (2024)

This site is supported by our readers. We may earn a commission, at no cost to you, if you purchase through links.

best face moisturizers for menThe best face moisturizer for men could be that one skincare staple to make a difference. With so many products in the market, choosing the right product for your skin type becomes necessary.

This guide will help you sort through the top 8 hydrating picks** tailored to address different skin concerns. Whether you have dry, oily, sensitive, or normal skin, we have you covered.

Keep your face hydrated and healthy-looking all day with the perfect moisturizer that suits your needs

Key Takeaways

  • Moisturizing isn’t just for the ladies, fellas! It’s your skin’s secret weapon against the daily grind, so don’t skimp on this essential step. Your face will thank you later.
  • One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to face moisturizers. Whether you’re battling Sahara-dry skin or could fry an egg on your forehead, there’s a perfect match out there for you.
  • SPF isn’t just for beach days. Look for moisturizers with built-in sun protection to keep those wrinkles at bay and avoid looking like a weathered old baseball glove by 40.
  • Patience is key, young grasshopper. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is perfect skin. Stick with your chosen moisturizer for at least a few weeks before expecting miracles

Moisturizing Essentials for Men

Moisturizing Essentials for Men
You’ve heard it before, but it bears repeating: moisturizing is essential for men’s skincare. Your face loses moisture throughout the day, and a good moisturizer helps prevent dryness and protect your skin. Incorporating moisturizing routines into your daily regimen isn’t just about looking good; it’s about maintaining healthy skin.

The best face moisturizers for men offer easy absorption and skin protection. They’re packed with natural ingredients that nourish and hydrate without leaving a greasy residue. Whether you’re battling the elements or just the daily grind, an essential face moisturizer is your skin’s best friend.

Don’t fall for the myth that skincare is just for women. Men’s face moisturizers are specifically formulated to address your unique needs. By using one consistently, you’ll notice improved texture, reduced irritation, and a healthier complexion. It’s time to make moisturizing a non-negotiable part of your grooming routine

Choosing the Right Moisturizer for Your Skin Type

Choosing the Right Moisturizer for Your Skin Type
Choosing the right moisturizer for your skin type is essential for its effectiveness in skincare. Whether your skin is dry, oily, sensitive, or average, settles on the type of moisturizer that’s correct for you.

Dry Skin

If you’re battling dry skin, you’re not alone. Dryness often leads to uncomfortable symptoms like:

  1. Persistent itching and flakiness
  2. Redness and tightness
  3. Rough, uneven texture
  4. Increased sensitivity

To combat these issues, look for facial moisturizers with hydrating ingredients like aloe vera. Natural face moisturizers can be particularly soothing for dry skin. Remember, the right product will help restore moisture, reduce irritation, and leave your skin feeling comfortable and healthy

Oily Skin

If you’ve got oily skin, don’t worry – you’re not alone. Your skin needs hydration too, but with a different approach. Here are three key features to look for in an oil-free face moisturizer:

  1. Non-comedogenic formulas
  2. Mattifying effects for shine reduction
  3. Acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid

These lightweight lotions will keep your skin balanced without feeling greasy. Plus, many offer anti-aging benefits, so you’re tackling multiple skin concerns at once. Remember, proper moisturizing can actually help control excess oil production

Sensitive Skin

If you have susceptible skin, choosing the right moisturizer becomes imperative. Tender skin requires more TLC than oily skin. Now, reach for hypoallergenic and fragrance-free formulas that won’t trigger reactions. Here’s what to keep in mind:

  • Opt for unscented face moisturizers to avoid irritation

    • Instead, reach for products with soothing ingredients like aloe and vitamin E.

  • Consider allergy-friendly options specifically designed for sensitive skin

Normal Skin

If you’ve got normal skin, you’re in luck! Your skin’s balanced, so most lotion-based moisturizers will work well. But don’t get complacent – your skin still needs daily care. Here are three key points for normal skin:

  1. Use a lightweight daily face moisturizer
  2. Adjust your routine seasonally (heavier in winter, lighter in summer)
  3. Look for balanced formulas that maintain your skin’s natural equilibrium

Top 8 Best Face Moisturizers for Men

You’ll find a range of top-quality face moisturizers for men in this list of eight excellent options. From Brickell’s Daily Face Moisturizer to Elemis’ Daily Moisture Boost, these products cater to various skin types and offer benefits like hydration, sun protection, and anti-aging properties

1. Brickell Men’s Daily Face Moisturizer

Brickell MenView On Amazon
You’ll love Brickell Men’s Daily Face Moisturizer if you’re after a natural, organic option that packs a punch.

This powerhouse product boasts aloe, jojoba oil, and hyaluronic acid to hydrate your skin without leaving it greasy. It’s quick-absorbing and suitable for all skin types, making it a go-to for men of all ages.

Featured in top men’s magazines, this moisturizer fights wrinkles and free radicals while enhancing your shave.

Though pricier than some alternatives, its lightweight feel and impressive ingredient list make it worth considering for your daily routine

Best For: Men of all ages with all skin types looking for a natural, organic moisturizer.

Pros
  • Hydrating and nourishing without leaving a greasy residue
  • Fights wrinkles and protects against free radicals
  • Quick absorption and lightweight feel
Cons
  • Expensive
  • Watery/runny feel
  • Bottle may not be easy to use

2. Face Moisturizer For Men

Face Moisturizer for Men -View On Amazon
You’ll love this non-greasy, fragrance-free face moisturizer designed specifically for men. Packed with natural ingredients like peptides, hyaluronic acid, and organic jojoba oil, it’s a powerhouse of hydration. It’s versatile too, doubling as an eye cream.

The hyaluronic acid holds 1000 times its weight in water, making it perfect for both dry and oily skin types.

While it’s not the cheapest option out there, many users find it worth the investment. Just be aware that some have experienced forehead peeling, so start with a small amount and adjust as needed

Best For: Men with dry or oily skin

Pros
  • Non-greasy, fragrance-free formula
  • Contains natural ingredients like peptides, hyaluronic acid, and organic jojoba oil
  • Doubles as an eye cream
Cons
  • Not cheap
  • Pump bottle may not pump to the bottom
  • Some reviewers experienced forehead peeling

3. Jack Black Double Duty Face Moisturizer

Jack Black Double-Duty Face Moisturizer,View On Amazon
If you’re on the hunt for a multitasking product, then look no further than Jack Black’s Double Duty Face Moisturizer. This cream is genius with its lightweight moisture, SPF 20 protection, and nourishing ingredients like macadamia nut and jojoba oils to provide long-lasting hydration without that greasy feel.

Its refreshing blend of peppermint, eucalyptus, and menthol will wake up your senses. Heather soothes your skin as well.

Although it’s a bit expensive, a little goes a long way. Watch out for the pump; it might give up before you do!

Best For: Busy individuals looking to simplify their skincare routine with a multifunctional product.

Pros
  • Hydrates, protects, and nourishes skin
  • Lightweight and non-greasy
  • Refreshing and revitalizing scent
Cons
  • Pricey
  • Pump system can be awkward
  • Pump may stop working before product is finished

4. Tiege Hanley Mens Skin Care Set

Tiege Hanley Mens Skin CareView On Amazon
You’ll love the Tiege Hanley Mens Skin Care Set if you’re after a complete skincare routine. This 30-day pack comes with face wash, an exfoliating scrub, and two moisturizers—one is for the day with SPF20, while another is for the night. It’s perfect for daily use and safe for sensitive skin.

Yes, the bottles are small, but they pack a lot. Overall, this set clears out bumps and evens out your skin tone. Moreover, it leaves your skin so soft.

Just be prepared to use sunscreen and cocoa butter to see the best results

Best For: Men who want a complete skincare routine tailored for their skin type.

Pros
  • Delivers clearer, healthier-looking skin.
  • Effective products that are safe for sensitive skin.
  • Cleanses and hydrates skin, leaving it soft and smooth.
Cons
  • Small bottles may require additional skincare products.
  • May cause breakouts for some users.
  • May require sunscreen and cocoa butter for best results

5. Marlowe Mens Facial Moisturizer

MARLOWE. No. 123 MenView On Amazon
You’ll love Marlowe’s Facial Moisturizer for its lightweight, water-based formula that hydrates without feeling greasy.

Packed with green tea, aloe vera, and passionflower extracts, it soothes and restores your skin effortlessly. A little goes a long way, leaving your face feeling soft and refreshed.

The fresh masculine scent, with notes of aloe, citrus, and woodsy base, is subtle yet appealing.

It’s cruelty-free, made in the USA, and free from harsh chemicals.

For a quick and easy addition to your skincare routine, Marlowe’s got you covered

Best For: Men seeking a lightweight moisturizer with a fresh masculine scent.

Pros
  • Hydrates and restores facial skin without feeling greasy
  • Contains Green Tea, Aloe Vera, and Passionflower extracts for soothing and restoring benefits
  • Fresh masculine scent with notes of aloe, citrus, and woodsy base
Cons
  • SPF version has a traditional sunscreen smell and may leave a white cast
  • SPF version feels greasy for the first hour or two
  • Some users experience a small burning sensation when applying SPF version

6. La Roche Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double RepairView On Amazon
La Roche Posay’s Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer is a dermatologist-recommended gem for all skin types, including sensitive.

It’s packed with powerhouse ingredients like Ceramide-3, Niacinamide, and Glycerin that work together to repair your skin’s protective barrier in just an hour. You’ll enjoy up to 48 hours of hydration, thanks to its prebiotic thermal water.

This lightweight, fragrance-free cream won’t clog your pores or irritate your skin. It’s free from parabens, oil, and alcohol, making it a go-to for guys who want healthy-looking skin without the fuss

Best For: Sensitive skin types looking for lasting hydration and barrier repair.

Pros
  • Repairs skin’s natural protective barrier in 1 hour
  • Provides up to 48-hour hydration
  • Dermatologist-recommended for sensitive skin

7. Cetaphil Face Moisturizer SPF35

Cetaphil Face Moisturizer, Daily OilView On Amazon
Cetaphil’s Face Moisturizer SPF35 is a triple-threat for your skincare routine. You’ll get hydration, nourishment, and sun protection all in one. Its lightweight formula absorbs quickly, leaving no greasy residue.

The broad-spectrum SPF 35 shields you from harmful UVA and UVB rays, while Edelweiss flower extract repairs your skin barrier. It’s fragrance-free and paraben-free, making it ideal for sensitive skin.

With 24-hour hydration, this moisturizer streamlines your morning routine. It’s versatile enough for all skin types and can be used alone or under makeup.

Just remember, it might leave a slight white cast on darker skin tones

Best For: Those with sensitive, combination skin looking for a multitasking moisturizer.

Pros
  • Hydrates, nourishes, and protects skin
  • Broad spectrum SPF 35
  • Lightweight, non-greasy formula
Cons
  • May leave a white cast on darker skin tones
  • May not be suitable for very oily skin
  • May not be effective for extended sun exposure

8. Elemis Daily Moisture Boost Men

ELEMIS Daily Moisture Boost forView On Amazon
You’ll love Elemis Daily Moisture Boost Men if you’re looking for a post-shave treat. This moisturizer packs a punch with Tamanu, Chestnut, and Cactus, offering hydration and antioxidant benefits for all skin types.

It’s perfect for soothing your face after shaving, restoring moisture, and leaving you feeling refreshed. The 3.2-ounce bottle is compact, making it ideal for travel.

While it does contain fragrance, it’s backed by a brand committed to environmental responsibility. Give your skin the boost it deserves with this luxurious, adult-focused moisturizer

Best For: Men looking for a post-shave moisturizer to hydrate and protect their skin.

Pros
  • Contains Tamanu, Chestnut, and Cactus for hydration and antioxidant benefits.
  • Soothes and restores moisture after shaving.
  • Compact size for easy portability.
Cons
  • Contains fragrance.
  • Not suitable for sensitive skin.
  • May be too heavy for oily skin types

Moisturizing Tips and Techniques

Moisturizing Tips and Techniques
Now that you have chosen the suitable moisturizing cream let’s delve into some expert tips on maximizing its benefits. It’s not just a question of applying it correctly to get the desired results. Here are four essential techniques you could use to apply moisturizers to your skin regime:

  1. Skin Prepare: Cleanse thoroughly, then pat dry the skin—leave a little damp.
  2. Layer Products: Apply lighter serums like hyaluronic acid and amino acids first and follow up with a moisturizer.
  3. Use the right amount: A pea-sized dollop is usually enough for your entire face.
  4. Gently massage: Apply upward circular motions to increase blood flow and absorption.

The Evolution of Men’s Moisturizers

The Evolution of Men
You’ve come far from ancient face creams made with eggs and antler powder. The biochemical makeup that characterizes today’s men’s moisturizers is underpinned by scientific formulation to answer specific skin needs—testimony to just how significant the improvement has been in the knowledge of skin health and what problems men, in particular, are faced with.

Modern moisturizers benefit every climate and skin type, from the desert air to the humid tropics. Far from acting merely as simple hydration, they’re mighty anti-aging tools. Here’s how men’s moisturizers have evolved:

  1. Ingredients: From simple oils through complex formulas with hyaluronic acid and peptides
  2. Textures: Lightweight gels and serums are now joined by ointments and creams.
  3. Targeted solution: products for oily, sensitive, or combination skin
  4. Multifunctional: Moisturizers incorporating ultraviolet protection and anti-aging action.

Whether you’re combating moisture loss during the winter or fighting the signs of aging, a moisturizer is formulated to suit your needs. Welcome this evolution and make moisturizing an intrinsic part of everyday skincare.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best moisturizer for men’s skin?

You’ll find the best moisturizer depends on your skin type. For dry skin, try cream-based formulas with hyaluronic acid. Oily skin benefits from lightweight, oil-free options. Look for products with SPF for daytime protection and anti-aging ingredients

What is #1 face moisturizer?

You’ll find many top-rated moisturizers, but there’s no single "#1" for everyone. Your skin type, concerns, and preferences matter. Look for products with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and glycerin to keep your face nourished and healthy

Which brand face cream is best for men?

You’ll find several excellent options for men’s face creams. Jack Black Double-Duty, Neutrogena Hydro Boost, and CeraVe AM are top-rated choices. Consider your skin type and specific needs when selecting the best moisturizer for you

Should men use face moisturizer?

Yes, you need face moisturizer. It’s essential for your skin since it helps maintain hydration and safeguard the skin from damage while promoting good health. Using it will help apparent dryness and other symptoms of aging while improving the texture of your skin. This would be a good step in developing a routine for skincare.

Can men use womens face moisturizers?

For women’s face moisturizers, you can just use them like a key in any lock because they’re the same thing as men’s but repackaged. Just choose based on skin type and needs—wherever skin falls under a grouping—not gender labels. You’ll find suitable options in both categories.

How long does it take to see results?

You’ll typically notice initial improvements within 2-4 weeks of consistent use. However, it can take up to 12 weeks to see significant results. Patience is key, as your skin needs time to regenerate and respond to the moisturizer’s ingredients

Should moisturizer be applied to facial hair?

Like a well-oiled machine, your facial hair needs care too. You should apply moisturizer to your facial hair and the skin beneath it. It’ll keep your beard soft, reduce itchiness, and prevent dry, flaky skin underneath

Are natural moisturizers better than synthetic ones?

Natural isn’t always better. Both natural and synthetic moisturizers can be effective. What matters most is the formulation and ingredients. Choose a product that suits your skin type and needs, regardless of its origin

Can face moisturizers cause acne in men?

Face moisturizers can cause acne in men, especially if you’re using the wrong type for your skin. Oil-based products may clog pores, while non-comedogenic options are less likely to trigger breakouts. Choose wisely based on your skin type

Conclusion

Bring your skincare routine up a level with these best face moisturizers for men. From dry to oily and sensitive types, through products addressing very different aesthetic concerns**, these moisturizers treat them all.

Add the right moisturizer to your regimen daily, and you’ll protect and nourish your skin all day with health and hydration.

This goes without saying, but one must pay attention to consistency. Choose an effective moisturizer and stick with it—make it part of your grooming regimen for lasting benefits

References
  • toolsofmen.com
  • primandprep.com
  • baldingbeards.com
Avatar for Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim is a published author and software engineer and beard care expert from the US. To date, he has helped thousands of men make their beards look better and get fatter. His work has been mentioned in countless notable publications on men's care and style and has been cited in Seeker, Wikihow, GQ, TED, and Buzzfeed.