The thing that Queer Eye’s Jonathan Van Ness gets is that a lot of men can’t really handle a 15-step skincare routine. On an average Queer Eye episode, Van Ness will typically keep it to two or three products that the average guy (or gal) can actually remember to use. Seeing that the widespread availability of specialized men’s skincare products is a relatively new phenomenon, a lot of men don’t even know where to begin. As many specialized products as there are, one thing that will appear on just about any basic routine, for any gender and skin type, is moisturizer.
By hydrating skin, moisturizer can reduce blemishes and the effects of aging. The challenge, of course, comes down to choosing one. It’s generally best to avoid oil-based moisturizers if you have oily skin, for example. Moisturizers are most effective when used after a cleanser.
The two most common kinds of face moisturizers are lotion and cream. Lotion is not as strongly hydrating, but it’s lighter and leaves less of a residue. That makes it a good daily option for most people without very dry skin. Another thing to look for is moisturizers with SPF. SPF is something that should be worn even on overcast days; up to 80% of UV rays still get through clouds.
We’ve rounded up a few moisturizing face lotions for daily use. While we (sadly) can’t all have our own Jonathan Van Ness, Amazon makes it easy to find moisturizers that work well. Some of these have SPF, and others should be supplemented with SPF if used in the morning. Either way, they’ll keep your face looking fresh.
1. Jack Black Double-Duty Face Moisturizer
Jack Black is one of the most popular specialized men’s skincare brands, and it’s been around for 20 years. This moisturizer has SPF 20 and protects against UVA and UVB. It’s lightweight and won’t leave skin feeling slick. It has naturally restorative ingredients like blue algae and rosemary.
Pros: Cruelty-free, natural ingredients. Has SPF 20, but not as oily as sunscreen.
Cons: Some options may be more economical.
2. Brickell Men’s Daily Essential Face Moisturizer for Men
This moisturizing lotion is 83% organic and 100% natural; it’s composed of naturally refreshing ingredients like aloe and green tea. It’s oil-free, so it’s a good option for those will oily skin, but it’ll also work well on other skin types. It’s scented with essential oils like peppermint and eucalyptus.
Pros: Good oil-free option, has a good smell that isn’t overwhelming, made with natural ingredients like green tea and jojoba oil.
Cons: The design of this bottle can make it challenging to get out every last drop.
3. MARLOWE. No. 123 Men’s Facial Moisturizer
Like the other options, this moisturizer is made from natural ingredients like green tea extract, which is rich in antioxidants, and passionflower extract, which has vitamin C and iron. It comes in a 6 oz bottle, the largest of the options on this list. It’s a lightweight, water-based lotion, so it’s a good pick for those with oily skin.
Pros: Most affordable option on this list per ounce, natural ingredients like green tea extract. Water-based, so a good option for those with oily skin.
Cons: This will not be effective for men with extremely dry, cracked skin.