A solid skincare routine doesn’t have to be complicated—but many men still make simple mistakes that keep their skin from looking its best. Whether you're breaking out more than usual, noticing dryness, or just not getting the results you expected, it might be time to clean up your routine. Here are some of the most common skincare mistakes guys make—and exactly how to fix them.
1. Using Bar Soap on Your Face
The mistake: Bar soap strips your skin of natural oils and can leave it feeling tight, dry, or irritated.
Fix it: Use a gentle facial cleanser that’s formulated for your skin type. Look for ingredients like salicylic acid for oily or acne-prone skin, and hydrating agents like glycerin or aloe for dry skin.
2. Skipping Moisturizer
The mistake: Thinking you don’t need moisturizer because you have oily skin or live in a humid climate.
Fix it: Moisturizing is essential for all skin types. It helps regulate oil production and strengthens your skin barrier. Choose an oil-free, lightweight moisturizer if you're prone to shine.
3. Not Wearing Sunscreen Daily
The mistake: Only applying sunscreen at the beach—or not at all.
Fix it: Sun exposure is the leading cause of premature aging and skin damage. Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every morning, even on cloudy days. Bonus: many moisturizers come with built-in SPF for convenience.
4. Over-Exfoliating
The mistake: Scrubbing your face every day or using harsh exfoliants that irritate your skin.
Fix it: Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells, but more isn’t better. Use a chemical exfoliant (like glycolic acid or salicylic acid) 2–3 times a week for smoother, clearer skin—no need to scrub hard.
5. Using Dirty Towels and Pillowcases
The mistake: Reusing the same towel or sleeping on the same pillowcase for days.
Fix it: Bacteria and oils build up fast. Use a clean towel for your face and change your pillowcase at least once or twice a week to help prevent breakouts.
6. Touching Your Face Too Much
The mistake: Resting your face on your hands, picking at blemishes, or scratching your skin.
Fix it: Hands carry oils, dirt, and bacteria. Be mindful of face-touching, and never pick at acne—it can lead to scarring and make things worse.
7. Not Sticking to a Routine
The mistake: Trying new products too frequently or expecting instant results.
Fix it: Good skin takes consistency. Stick with a basic routine (cleanser, moisturizer, sunscreen) for at least 4–6 weeks before making changes. Give your products time to work.
Most skincare mistakes come down to habits—not lack of effort. With just a few tweaks to your routine, you’ll see healthier, clearer skin in no time. Keep it simple, be consistent, and treat your skin like you care about it—because it shows.