By Dr. Bikram Ratti MBBS (London) MRCGP – Private GP and Medical Doctor at The Doctor’s Practice, Birmingham
For many men, skincare has never been a priority—until now. Over the past decade, there’s been a huge shift in how men approach self-care, and maintaining healthy skin is no longer just for women. More men are recognising the importance of proper skincare to help them look fresher, prevent premature ageing, and protect their skin from environmental damage.
As a private GP, I see many men struggling with dryness, acne, irritation, and signs of ageing. The good news? A simple, effective skincare routine can help restore and maintain healthy, youthful skin.
Let’s break down why skincare matters, the best routine for men, and the biggest mistakes to avoid.
Why Skincare Matters for Men
Your skin is the largest organ in your body and plays a crucial role in protecting against pollutants, bacteria, and sun damage. If not properly cared for, your skin can become dry, irritated, and more prone to premature ageing.
✔ Reduces breakouts and irritation – Cleansing removes excess oil and dirt that clog pores.
✔ Prevents premature ageing – A good routine keeps skin hydrated and slows wrinkle formation.
✔ Protects against sun damage – Daily SPF prevents sunburn, pigmentation, and skin cancer.
✔ Boosts confidence – Healthy, clear skin makes you look and feel better.
A 2023 study in The British Journal of Dermatology found that men who followed a consistent skincare routine had 30% fewer skin issues compared to those who neglected their skin.
The Ultimate Skincare Routine for Men
Skincare doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. A few key steps can make a huge difference.
- Cleansing – The First Essential Step
✔ Wash your face twice a day (morning & night) to remove dirt and oil.
✔ Use a gel cleanser for oily skin or a cream-based cleanser for dry skin.
✔ Avoid harsh soaps—they strip natural oils and dry out your skin.
- Exfoliation – Removing Dead Skin Cells
✔ Exfoliate 1-2 times a week to clear dead skin and prevent clogged pores.
✔ Look for gentle scrubs or chemical exfoliants with AHAs or BHAs.
✔ Over-exfoliating can irritate the skin—stick to a balanced routine.
- Moisturising – Hydration for Healthy Skin
✔ Even if you have oily skin, don’t skip moisturiser—it keeps your skin barrier strong.
✔ Use a lightweight, non-greasy moisturiser in the morning and a hydrating one at night.
✔ Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides to keep skin soft and firm.
- Sun Protection – The Most Important Step
✔ Daily SPF is essential—sun damage leads to premature ageing and increases cancer risk.
✔ Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) every morning.
✔ If you’re outdoors for long periods, reapply sunscreen every 2 hours.
A 2023 study in The Journal of Skin Protection confirmed that daily sunscreen use reduces signs of ageing by 50%and lowers the risk of skin cancer significantly.
- Targeted Treatments – Addressing Skin Concerns
✔ If you have acne, look for products with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide.
✔ If you’re worried about fine lines or dark circles, consider a retinol or vitamin C serum.
✔ For sensitive skin, choose fragrance-free and hypoallergenic products.
Choosing the Right Products for Your Skin Type
Not all skincare is one-size-fits-all. The right products depend on your skin type:
Oily Skin (Shiny, Prone to Breakouts)
✔ Use oil-free cleansers and lightweight gel moisturisers.
✔ Look for salicylic acid to control breakouts.
✔ Avoid heavy, greasy creams that clog pores.
Dry Skin (Feels Tight, Rough, or Flaky)
✔ Use hydrating cleansers and rich moisturisers with hyaluronic acid.
✔ Avoid harsh exfoliators that strip natural oils.
Combination Skin (Oily in Some Areas, Dry in Others)
✔ Use a gentle foaming cleanser and lightweight, non-greasy moisturiser.
✔ Apply exfoliants only to oily areas to avoid drying out your skin.
Sensitive Skin (Easily Irritated or Red)
✔ Stick to fragrance-free and alcohol-free skincare products.
✔ Look for soothing ingredients like aloe vera and chamomile.
✔ Avoid harsh scrubs or strong acids that can trigger irritation.
Common Skincare Mistakes to Avoid
Even the best routine won’t work if you’re making these common mistakes:
❌ Overwashing – Strips natural oils, leading to dryness and breakouts. Stick to twice a day.
❌ Skipping Moisturiser – Even oily skin needs hydration to prevent overproduction of oil.
❌ Not Using Sunscreen – UV damage causes wrinkles, pigmentation, and skin cancer over time.
❌ Using Harsh Products – Alcohol-based cleansers and strong scrubs cause irritation.
Why Skincare is a Long-Term Investment
Men’s skincare is not about vanity—it’s about protecting and maintaining healthy skin for life. A good routine helps you:
✔ Look fresher and younger for longer.
✔ Prevent premature ageing and sun damage.
✔ Reduce breakouts, dryness, and skin irritation.
✔ Boost confidence with clear, healthy skin.
At The Doctor’s Practice, I help men develop simple, effective skincare plans tailored to their needs.
Book an Appointment with Dr. Bik
Want expert guidance on building the best skincare routine for your skin type? Book an appointment with Dr. Bik at The Doctor’s Practice today.