Men’s skin tends to be oilier, with larger pores, partly because of higher androgen levels. Add shaving irritation and sweat, and you get shine, clogged pores and the occasional breakout.
The good news is that you don’t need a complicated routine. A good cleanser, a light moisturizer with SPF in the morning, and one targeted treatment cover most of what oily skin needs. Here’s what to buy.
Our picks at a glance
| Product | Best for | Key ingredients | |
|---|---|---|---|
| CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser | Best cleanser | Ceramides, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid | See on Amazon |
| CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30 | Best moisturizer with SPF | Zinc oxide, homosalate, octinoxate, ceramides, niacinamide | See on Amazon |
| The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% | Best for shine and pores | 10% niacinamide, 1% zinc PCA | See on Amazon |
| Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant | Best exfoliant for blackheads | 2% salicylic acid | See on Amazon |
| Bulldog Original Moisturizer | Best simple men’s brand | Aloe vera, camelina oil, green tea | See on Amazon |
| Neutrogena Clear Face Sunscreen SPF 50 | Best standalone sunscreen | Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene | See on Amazon |
The best products for men with oily skin
1. CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser: Best cleanser
A gel cleanser that removes oil and sweat without stripping your skin. It’s fragrance-free and gentle enough to use twice a day, and it works well before shaving.
Key ingredients: Ceramides, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid
Pros
- Removes oil without over-drying
- Fragrance-free
- Big bottle lasts months
Cons
- Not medicated for acne
2. CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30: Best moisturizer with SPF
One step instead of two: a light moisturizer and broad-spectrum SPF 30 in one bottle. Perfect if you want a fast morning routine.
Key ingredients: Zinc oxide, homosalate, octinoxate, ceramides, niacinamide
Pros
- Saves a step
- Niacinamide for oil and redness
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Can leave a slight white cast
- Not very matte
3. The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%: Best for shine and pores
A cheap, popular serum that helps reduce the look of oiliness and enlarged pores over time. Use a few drops after cleansing. Read our full Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% review.
Key ingredients: 10% niacinamide, 1% zinc PCA
Pros
- Very affordable
- Helps with oil and pores
- Lightweight
Cons
- Can pill under some products
- 10% may irritate sensitive skin
4. Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant: Best exfoliant for blackheads
One of the most popular leave-on exfoliants for blackheads and clogged pores. Use it a few nights a week after cleansing. For a budget alternative, try The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution.
Key ingredients: 2% salicylic acid
Pros
- Excellent for blackheads
- Lightweight liquid
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Pricier than most picks on this list
- Can be drying if overused
5. Bulldog Original Moisturizer: Best simple men’s brand
If you want something made for men that’s easy to find, Bulldog’s moisturizer is light and absorbs fast. It does contain fragrance from essential oils, so skip it if your skin is sensitive.
Key ingredients: Aloe vera, camelina oil, green tea
Pros
- Light and fast-absorbing
- Affordable
- Easy to find
Cons
- Contains fragrance
- No SPF
6. Neutrogena Clear Face Sunscreen SPF 50: Best standalone sunscreen
A lightweight, oil-free sunscreen designed for breakout-prone skin. It sinks in clear with no white cast, which makes it a good choice if you don’t like the feel of mineral sunscreens.
Key ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene
Pros
- Oil-free
- No white cast
- Affordable
Cons
- Chemical filters may sting very sensitive skin
A simple routine for oily skin
| When | Step | What to use |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | 1. Cleanse | CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser |
| Morning | 2. Moisturize + SPF | CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30 |
| Night | 1. Cleanse | CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser |
| Night | 2. Treat | Niacinamide serum, or BHA exfoliant 2 to 3 nights a week |
| Night | 3. Moisturize | A light, oil-free moisturizer |
Shaving tips for oily, breakout-prone skin
- Shave after a warm shower when hair is softer.
- Use a sharp blade and shave with the grain to reduce bumps.
- Rinse with cool water and follow with a fragrance-free moisturizer.
- Don’t use exfoliating acids right before or after shaving.
Want more moisturizer options? See the best moisturizers for oily skin, and if you’re dealing with breakouts, the best face washes for acne-prone skin.
FAQ
Do men need different skincare than women?
Not really. Skin works the same way. Men tend to have oilier skin and deal with shaving irritation, but the same ingredients and products work for everyone. “For men” products are mostly about packaging and scent.
How often should men wash their face?
Twice a day for oily skin, and after workouts. Over-washing or using harsh soap can make skin produce more oil.
Is bar soap okay for my face?
Most regular bar soaps are too harsh for facial skin. A gentle facial cleanser is a better choice.
The bottom line
Keep it simple: CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser twice a day, CeraVe AM SPF 30 in the morning, and The Ordinary Niacinamide at night. Add a BHA exfoliant a few times a week if blackheads are an issue.
This article is for general information and isn’t medical advice. If you have a persistent skin condition, a reaction that doesn’t settle, or you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, check with a dermatologist or pharmacist before trying new actives.