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Best Face Lotion for Men: What to Look for from the Experts

Best Face Lotion for Men: What to Look for from the Experts

One of the most overlooked products in the male grooming category is face lotion. Men’s facial moisturizers have come a long way in recent years, and regularly using one will not only replenish your skin with essential hydration and nutrients, but can visibly reduce the signs of aging. Choosing the best face lotion for men can be intimidating, so we talked to the skin-care experts to give you the low down.

Ingredients to Look Out For

Look for facial moisturizers with the ingredients zinc oxide, retinol, and vitamin C:

Zinc oxide is the best way to block harmful UV radiation, especially skin cancer-inducing UVA.

Retinol is a version of Vitamin A that is scientifically proven to reduce fine lines and wrinkles over the years.

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that reduces free-radicals on the skin.

Expensive moisturizers are worth the investment if your skin is extra dry and needs more than the average cream can give, but while some may tout special botanical, organic, or other actives, it really comes down to personal preference.

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Best Face Lotions for Men

Ultimately, the determining factor in how well a moisturizer works is the question, how does it feel and how does it make your skin look? A favorite in my office is Intensive Nourishing Cream by Epionce.

Dr. Hal Weitzbuch, M.D., M.S., F.A.A.D., Founder of JuveTress

Best Face Lotions for Men

Consider Your Skin Type to Find the Best Face Lotion for Men

The most important thing to consider when choosing a facial moisturizer is your skin type. If your skin is dry, look for a thicker moisturizer like EltaMD Intense Moisturizer, to replenish your skin’s moisture barrier. 

Best Face Lotions for Men

Choose water-based gels like Drunk Elephant B-Hydra Intensive Hydration Gel for oily skin. 

If you have combination skin, use a moisturizer suitable for all skin types like Murad Oil Control Mattifier SPF 15, and apply more or less to different areas of your skin.

Best Face Lotions for Men

If your skin is normal, try experimenting with different types of moisturizers to see which one you like best.

Best Face Lotions for Men

A favorite of mine is Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer SPF 15. Finally, sensitive skin calls for a moisturizer that’s gentle and fragrance-free like Aveeno Eczema Care.

David Lortscher, MD, Board-Certified Dermatologist, Founder Curology.com

Best Face Lotions for Men

Rebuild Your Skin Overnight

Retinoids, like Tretinoin (prescription) and retinols (over the counter) are vitamin A derived, topical agents that accelerate cell turnover and help the skin make new collagen, a process that naturally slows down once we reach our 20s.

They can be irritating and drying, so start using them only twice a week, until your skin toughens up in a good way. They will help you shed older skin cells at the surface, to reveal shiny, healthy, stronger skin. They are best used at bedtime.

Best Face Lotions for Men
Best Face Lotions for Men

Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Moisturizer (Night) or ROC brand night serum are effective over the counter products.

Tsippora Shainhouse MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist in Beverly Hills and a clinical instructor at the University of Southern California

Best Face Lotions for Men

Don’t Forget SPF

One of the most important things a daily moisturizer should do is protect against dangerous UV. Sun damage can cause premature lines and wrinkles, age spots, dulling of skin texture and more. 

Best Face Lotions for Men

I recommend SPF 30+ for those with a moderate skin tone and SPF 50 for those with lighter skin. I use EltaMD’s Facial Broad Spectrum SPF 30+, which is a moisturizing sunscreen for the face.”

Dr. Joshua D. Zuckerman, MD, FACS of Zuckerman Plastic Surgery, a board-certified plastic surgeon in New York City


It takes more than just soap and water to put your best face forward, so make sure you’re moisturizing your mug regularly. We’ve taken the guesswork out of finding the best face lotion for you, so add one into your arsenal.


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Best Face Lotions for Men