Best Face Moisturizers For Men in 2022
Age doesn’t treat anyone well, and neither does sun damage. Skin issues like psoriasis and eczema affect millions of Americans, yet most men don’t understand the major role that proper face moisturizers can play in their skin health, and overall appearance. Protection from hundreds of airborne chemicals we encounter each day, radiation from UV rays, and general maintenance are all stellar reasons to invest in face moisturizer; it’s not just marketed towards women anymore, and it’s enhancing men’s style and skincare everywhere. If it’s grooming or style-related, you know Gear Hungry’s got the hook-up for you.
The Best Face Moisturizer For Men
1Jack Black Double-Duty Face Moisturizer
Not that Jack Black (at least, we don’t think). Last but not least, this generous moisturizer gives you ample SPF 20 protection when you need it, and a deep-working moisturizer for the rest of the day. UVA and UVB protection are yours, while antioxidants work tirelessly to level-out the pH levels of your skin, which help you in the long run. If you’re still not sure what to look for in a face moisturizer, take a peek at the comprehensive buying guide just below, and let us know which moisturizer you ended up selecting, and why.
Contains potent vitamins and antioxidants
Acts as a sunscreen and deep treatment moisturizer
Safe for all skin types
Cruelty-free Vegan ingredients
- BrandJack Black
- Model2004
- Weight1.44 ounces
2Baxter of California Oil Free Moisturizer for Face
There’s nothing wrong with your everyday routine, especially when you’re working hard to continually make progress and succeed. The challenge comes with the simple movements we make every day and the invisible or visible forces that make rocking a clear healthy skin almost impossible. With the busyness of life, most people don’t stop to consider the health of their skin and the effects the sun, free radicals or even constant shaving could cause and the Baxter of California Oil-Free Moisturizer for Face is one of those active formulas that can be applied daily for healthier and more vibrant skin. The botanically based formula helps to deeply moisturize and protect the skin while preventing the effects of premature aging. Incorporating natural ingredients like chamomile, green tea, and aloe vera makes the formula even more potent. Chamomile and aloe vera carry out the duty of soothing the skin and eliminating inflammations while the green tea extract actively gets rid of free radicals.
Accompanied by other botanical ingredients, the formula battles basic skin conditions caused by dryness, sunburns and the likes. For quite an affordable price, this moisturizing face cream provides a light and oil-free base that can be applied in the morning before stepping out for the day’s work. Its non-greasy and light form makes it easy to apply, regardless of the weather condition and the best thing is, once the formula is applied, it supplies a soothing and oil-less coverage that won’t leave an oily shine sprawled across your face. So the surface of the skin will be well-pampered, without anything giving your face nourishing secret away. Its subtlety is equally ensured by a fragrance-free base that won’t mix or confuse any other colognes or creams that have previously been applied. The cream equally absorbs quickly into the skin, ensuring the face feels fresh and smooth once the formula is applied. Bring back the youthful and clear look on your skin with this oil-free, effective and rich formula.
Oil-free formula
Lightweight and soothing
Defends against free radicals
Includes anti-oxidants and botanicals
- BrandBaxter of California
- Model838364001674
- Weight4 ounces
3MARLOWE. No. 123 Men’s Facial Moisturizer
Apart from the distraction a cool and dapper outfit can provide, one of the first things people look at is actually the face. It could be an odd turnoff when business partners, family members, strangers and most importantly- the ladies, spot inconsistencies in the skin tone; dry patches or other not-so-cool skin conditions. The Marlowe No.123 Men’s Facial Moisturiser boasts the perfect blend of ingredients that makes it a must-have on every boss man’s shelf. The 6 oz tube is equally quite affordable, making it a cream that can comfortably be bought, time and time again without much fuss or concerns about high costs. What’s even better is the cruelty-free formula that still proves to be very effective on the skin. It’s also paraben and phthalate-free, making it suitable for practically all skin types, including sensitive skin.
And as the lotion is water-based, the skin practically drinks in the applied base; making it a perfect and efficient product for the rejuvenation of the skin which can be used in the morning or night after washing the face. Enriched with a potent formula inclusive of natural ingredients; green tea, passion fruit extract, willow bark extract, and deep-sea algae extract, it’s one of the best all-natural men’s face moisturizers. Green tea extract helps to repair and protect while willow bark extract has soothing properties that calm the skin and reduce inflammations. And the addition of passion fruit means the skin can be quickly restored and rejuvenated thanks to the moisturizing properties. With a formula so potent, this is a sure bet for men with dry or oily skin.
Hydrates dry skin
Non-greasy formula
Lightly scented with an aloe, citrus and woody notes
Cruelty-free
- BrandMARLOWE. M BLEND
- Weight6.1 ounces
4Brickell Men’s Daily Essential Face Moisturizer
To attain an all-round fresh and boss look, one of the most important features to keep in check is the skin. Luckily, the Brickell Men’s daily Essential Face Moisturiser is one of those healing balms that come in a bottle that practically performs miracles on the skin. Regardless of the skin type; normal, dry, oily or sensitive skin, its light base quickly sinks into the skin providing fast action against free-radicals while soothing and healing the skin all at once. With all the exposure during different weather conditions, the face requires a go-to skincare routine to keep it refreshed, pampered and hydrated daily. Combining the potency and efficiency of natural and organic ingredients, this formula is gentle on the skin, yet tough on external or internal elements that could get in the way of a clear and refreshed face. The oil-free base will keep you feeling on top of the game without clogging the pores or breaking up any more sweat.
Active ingredients like aloe vera, jojoba oil, green tea, and hyaluronic acid are some of the potent ingredients your face could benefit from. While aloe vera is an active hydrating ingredient that supplies antioxidants to the skin, hyaluronic acid, which has practically the same gel-like texture, is also a deep moisturizing element. Jojoba oil acts as a great protective barrier that seals the moisture in while green tea works as an excellent anti-aging ingredient. Lightly scented with peppermint, lemongrass, and eucalyptus it’s both refreshing and rejuvenating. And with the guarantee to last up to 60 days, this moisturizing face cream is sure to deliver a face that’s much smoother, softer and healthier.
Zero parabens, silicones, synthetic ingredients and petrochemicals
Natural and Organic ingredients
Cruelty-free, Vegan formula
Light and fast-absorbing formula
- BrandBrickell Men’s Products
- ModelFM134
- Weight4.8 ounces
5L’Oreal Men Expert: Vita Lift
They’re not just providing tangle-free kids shampoo; L’Oreal has seriously ramped-up their focus on men-specific products, This one comes at the lowest initial cost, and best value-to-volume ratio on our list. You’re only expected to use about three pearls of moisturizer each time, because it’s designed to work on your face and your neck, aiding in preventing neck burn from growing hairs. L’Oreal designed this to be applicable to all skin types, giving one of the best one-size-fits-all solutions, all without busting your budget wide open. We’re fairly confident in saying that you’ll be back for another round, stocking up on one of the best tools in your grooming arsenal (pro tip: this is an excellent and compact addition to your current dopp kit).
1.6oz container (best value-to-volume ratio on this list)
Designed to smooth out age lines
Should also be used on neck for a full-blown rejuvenating feeling
- BrandL’Oreal Paris
- ModelLPM001
- Weight1.6 ounces
6Instant Fix Oil Control Mattifier
Built as a treatment to extreme oil protection, this moisturizer, built by Anthony, works with oily or normal skin, and absorbs nearly instantly. You get a superior value-to-volume ratio with this one, making it a budgeter’s dream. Where it’s built for oily skin, it also helps prevent ingrown hairs from sprouting, causing irritable little red bumps and such. If you’re a guy who likes to rock the three-day scruff look, you’re probably not crazy about getting neckburn from the stubble scratching against it. In between hair growth, this helps to keep it smooth, while reducing daily irritation. One small price, for one serious layer of protection against everything that bothers you.
3oz container
Absorbs to your skin within seconds
Built for normal and oily skin types
- BrandAnthony
- Model615011
- Weight3 oz.
7Bulldog Skincare and Grooming for Men
It’s time to take a walk on the lavish side. Bulldog protects you like the breed they’re affectionately named after, giving you top performance from morning until night. Using a pearl-sized dab, you can use this in the morning, and again before bed to maintain a perfect complexion, practically without trying. Thanks to the man-made, non-greasy ingredients, this won’t smudge or sully your pillow, and stays right where it needs to: on your face. You’re going to pay a touch more than average for this, but the best things in life rarely come at the lowest prices. Get an even-toned look, and maximum protection from pollution, chemicals, and the elements. Be sure to also check out our list of the best lip balms for men for more great items like this.
Comes in a 3.3oz container
Built primarily for normal skin
Man-made ingredients built for top-notch performance (non-greasy)
- BrandBulldog Mens Skincare and Grooming
- ModelLWT1004
- Weight3.2 ounces
8Clinique Oil Control Moisturizer for Men
Your skin’s oily, but your sniffer is always on high alert. You’ve just found the perfect border patrol between your two peculiarities. Clinique offers an excellent value-to-volume ratio, coming in a 3.4oz container at one of the most agreeable prices on our list. That being said, they also don’t contain a single shred of fragrance (which are also known irritants for oily skin). Those with oily skin can use this twice per day, applying about two pearls after your shower, and before bed each night. If you’re sick of washing your pillow cases every day, and trying everything you can to keep adult acne and oily skin at bay, it’s time to hop on the Clinique hype train.
Designed for tight control on oily skin
3.4oz container
100% fragrance-free for sensitive noses
- BrandClinique
- Model375634
- Weight3.4 oz.
9Oil-Free Moisturizer by Baxter of California
This generous amount for a low-brow price gave us a few questions at first, but after using it for a few days, the results began taking form. This comes completely oil-free, which doesn’t just benefit oily skin types; anyone can use this moisturizer, regardless of dry, normal, or any other skin type. Consisting of man-made materials, Baxter of California really shocked us with the value-to-volume ratio, and the overall quality of the mix. You also get SPF 15 protection, allowing you to apply this in the early morning with confidence. After just two days of morning-exclusive use, you’re going to be surprised at the accruing results. Make sure you also check our guide to the best anti-aging creams for men.
SPF 15 protection
4oz container
Designed for all skin types
- BrandBaxter Of California
- Model5620238
- Weight4 oz.
10CeraVe Moisturizing Cream
When it comes to moisturizing cream, sometimes it’s best to go with popular opinion. Sure, you could choose the cream with the best packaging. Or the cream that claims to have 100% natural ingredients. But really, the one with the most positive reviews is bound to be the best. CeraVe Moisturizing Cream has over 21,000 five-star reviews on Amazon, which signifies one thing – it really works.
This moisturizer has niacinamide, ceramides, and MVE technology, providing 24-hour hydration. It provides relief against dry skin and is recommended by dermatologists. Designed for both men and women, you can use this moisturizer every day and your skin will bounce back to life in no time at all.
19 Oz (539g)
Three essential ceramides
24-hour hydration
Dry-skin relief
Dermatologist recommended
For daily use
- BrandCeraVe
- Model301871373195
- Weight1.35 pounds
Men’s Face Moisturizer Buying Guide and FAQs
How We Chose Our Selection of Best Men’s Moisturizers
We always do a side-by-side analysis of a vast list of products, leaving us with anywhere between ten and thirty in our top list. For moisturizers, we left it off at twelve, and used the following criteria to determine our final pick:
- Amount in Container (Not just product weight)
- Effects on Multiple Skin Types
- Cost
- Shelf Life
- Replacement Expectancy
- Yearly Cost Per User
- Ingredients List Analysis
- Customer Reviews
- Firsthand Accounts and Personal Testing
- Brand Practices (Testing)
There’s a lot that goes into each of our carefully-crafted buying guides. When you take a look at moisturizer, it appears just as you see it; we see a new staple in your life, a way to improve your confidence and skincare, and that’s what our aim is.
Skin Types
There are four major skin types that can usually serve as a blanket diagnosis to a multitude of problems. Depending on which your face type falls into (very easy to self-diagnose), you’ll be able to better identify your requirements in a face moisturizer.
- Normal: Sounds pretty bland and boring, but this is a good thing. You’re generally not too sensitive to skincare products, so you have a wider range of options. Not too oily, not too dry, but somewhere in between that’s just right.
- Dry: Flaking or otherwise dry and ashy skin require a bit more of an aggressive approach to face moisturizer. Your skin isn’t retaining moisture, gets dried out for hours after a shower, and it’s just difficult to manage. You need a moisturizer that locks-in.
- Oily: Your body produces too much oil, and it’s not necessarily good for you. Too much oil can lead to clogged pores, adult acne, and greasy skin. If your skin is too oily, you’ll be cleaning your face first, and the right moisturizer will shield your pores from secreting massive amounts of oil.
- Sensitive: Everything irritates you, so you need organic, 100% natural products to negate the effects of harsh chemicals, and unnecessary additives. If you’re prone to blotching just from a new shampoo, or certain hand sanitizers make you itchy afterwards, you probably have sensitive skin.
Ingredients
When it comes to personal care, there’s a lot to consider. We have so many unnecessary fillers and additives to everything around us, that it makes it difficult to figure out what we actually trust. There are specific ingredients you should be on the lookout for that have the lowest chance of being an irritant, and the most beneficial attributes. They include:
- Hyaluronic Acid
- Dimethicone
- Propylene
- Glycol
- Glycerin
- Mineral Oil
- Lanolin
- Petroleum
Everything is going to come with a few additives for consistency, aroma, and the ability to bind to itself. If you mixed all these ingredients in a pestle, you’d just have goop that wouldn’t hold its form. The more of these ingredients you can find in your face moisturizer, the better off you are.
Benefits
- Depending on the ingredients, you’re able to slow the loss of collagen, while making your skin tone nice and even
- Reduces excessive natural oil production, which can cut down on adult acne, and keep blotches at bay
- Prolongs visible signs of aging on your skin
- Aids in managing skin issues such as eczema or psoriasis
- Retain healthy moisture, especially during dry and winter months
- Keeps your skin nice and soft in between shaves, reducing skin irritation and improving the closeness of your cut
Why Moisturizing Matters
Your skin loses a key component called collagen as time goes on. This directly attributes to your skin’s elasticity, which is why as we age, we notice it’s harder to tighten skin from working out, and things of the sort. Moisturizing can decrease the rate at which collagen declines, and maintain the areas of your skin that would normally suffer in collagen’s absence.
Moisturizing also helps keep the effects of eczema and other skin issues at bay, but it requires consistency. Keep flakes off, keep collagen alive, all while benefiting from the aesthetic effects. Years of moisturizing leads to a longer-lasting, youthful look that carries through the years (so long as you keep it up).
Face Moisturizer FAQ
Q: How often should you Uuse moisturizer?
A: Moisturizing can be a daily part of your grooming ritual, though we only recommend once per day, and never before bed. Your sheets could get a little oily, your pillowcase, etc., and that could lead to adult acne along awkward areas, such as behind the ears or on the back of your neck.
Daily moisturizing is good, but it’s important to know your skin type and understand what your body is telling you. If you’re keeping clean and showering once or twice per day, then your skin is being well cared-for, and you’re used to having clear, clean skin. When it feels oily or greasy, you’re either using too much moisturizer, or you’re doing it too frequently. It’s only going to lead to clogged pores, and overcompensate for natural oil production in your skin, which can throw off your skin’s chemistry. Keep in mind, that’s only in extreme circumstances, but just be mindful of your usage.
Q: When should I apply moisturizer?
A: As long as the conditions are right, we recommend using face moisturizer in the morning after you’ve patted yourself dry. Moisturizing means applying the right minerals to your skin, without overdoing it and making your face slick or greasy feeling. The more simplistic your moisturizing and self-care regimen is, the easier it is to follow, and the less tolling it can be on your body. Those who groom too much (yes, there is such a thing), can seriously mess with skin oil production and cause issues. With moisturizing, handle it once, and it’s off to market.
Most Common Mistakes Men Make While Using Face Moisturizer
Moisturizing Mistake #1: Patch Testing
If your moisturizer fails the patch test, that sucks. If you apply the whole thing to your face and then find out that it’s going to irritate your skin, then that royally sucks. You can be about 99% certain, when shopping online, that you’re not going to have a negative reaction. Enough research regarding the ingredients list, customer reviews, etcetera, can all provide you with great insight… or you could be the 1% who encounters issues. Patch test on your skin, so that if you have a reaction, it’s minimal and in a controlled situation.
Moisturizing Mistake #2: Dry Application
You’re not supposed to just slap on moisturizer; you have to do it after gently cleaning and wetting your face. Dry application can have one of two effects: irritation, or ineffectiveness. The negative or neutral reaction is triggered by the response from your pores, which is completely avoidable. Either wash your face or shower before application, and be sure to pat dry; abrasive towel movements are going to irritate your skin.
Moisturizing Mistake #3: Not Using SPF
Depending on the brand, it’s going to come with SPF protection (usually SPF 15 at the verl east). It’s beyond important, because the moment you leave the house, you’re subject to UVA and UVB rays. The wrong moisturizer is just going to intensify the sun’s damage to your skin, unless it contains the right level of protection.