From Chanel and Tom Ford to Kiehl’s and Aesop, post-workout primed to anti-blemish treatments, our comprehensive guide to the best men’s moisturisers has every base covered.
What is moisturiser and why do I need it?
A moisturiser should be the first tool in your arsenal for avoiding dry and tired skin. When combined with a good face wash it helps to rehydrate your skin’s outer layers so you look your best around the clock. This is especially the case when it comes to your face as it’s more exposed to the elements than any other part of your body. Need some more motivation to lather your face every morning? Moisturisers that contain SPF help to protect your face from sun damage and related skin cancer risk.
What time of day should I use moisturiser?
We recommend using these moisturisers twice a day, in the morning and the evening. A daily routine would be to wash your face with a mild cleanser and follow this with one of our picks below. However, this can differ depending on product, skin-type, time of year and even environment. Since your skin hydration needs will vary according to the weather, you’ll want to tailor the contents of your wash bag to the seasons.
What moisturiser is best for tattoo aftercare?
Careful, this is a common misconception. Bepanthen, which is an ointment rather than a moisturiser, is the recommended product for tattoo aftercare and you’ll want to apply it every three to six hours for around a fortnight after you’ve been inked. So as much as these moisturisers will revitalise your mug, they’re no good for keeping your tats in tip top shape.
What other grooming products work best with a men’s moisturiser?
To each man his own, but we’d recommend pairing your moisturiser with a good men’s face wash at the very least. Then have a think about mixing an exfoliator into the process that’ll diminish dirt and get shot of dead skin cells and an eye serum to target more delicate skin in this area. And if you’re in need of a more intensive refresh? Then, as a special treat for getting your skincare regime in order, try slapping on a face mask.
Now check GQ’s edit of the very best moisturisers for men…
KIEHL’S AGE DEFENDER GEL MOISTURIZER
Kiehl’s power-packed and popular Age Defender Moisturizer is now available in a lighter, quicker absorbed gel formulation. Using Linseed extract and White Birch extract, known for their anti-ageing benefits, it helps improve skin’s elasticity while visibly minimizing the look of fine lines and wrinkles. Non-greasy and quickly absorbed, it is the perfect solution for men in their prime who find richer anti-aging products too heavy.
AESOP PROTECTIVE FACIAL LOTION SPF 25
It’s safe to say, being founded in Australia, Aesop is passionate about the importance of sun protection. Its Protective Facial Lotion with an SPF of 25 is rapidly absorbed, light, not sticky in texture (which can be a side-effect when you add SPF to a moisturiser) and provides broad-spectrum defence from both UVA and UVB radiation. Leaving a matt texture to the skin, green tea, panthernol and tocopherol are among its most effective ingredients.
KIEHL’S ULTRA FACIAL OIL-FREE GEL CREAM
Climate research indicates that the increase in humidity and pollution is leading to a population with greasier skin that is prone to more breakouts. Specifically designed for combination and oily skin types, Kiehl’s newly revamped Ultra Facial Oil-Free Gel Cream guarantees 24-hour, lightweight and shine-free hydration. First launched in 2013, the new and improved alcohol-free formula has the same cooling gel texture with more advanced ingredient technology that helps reduce and regulate the appearance of excess sebum (oil) on the skin’s surface. Fast absorbing and residue-free, it is packed with hydrating and nourishing active agents but is primarily powered by the combination of glacial glycoprotein (derived from sea glaciers), which helps prevent moisture loss, and micronised amino acid, which slows down the production of excess oil. It leaves the complexion feeling fresh, protected and comforted and elevates any fears about a Zoom-call shiny forehead.