Building a basic skincare routine for men on a budget

A gentle cleanser, a moisturiser and a daily sunscreen cover the essentials. Anything beyond that should address a specific need, such as a treatment for breakouts or dryness, added one at a time so you can tell what helps. Cleanse once or twice a day depending on oil and sweat, moisturise to keep skin comfortable, and apply sunscreen last in the morning on exposed areas, including the neck and ears.

Not necessarily. A simple moisturiser can soothe after shaving, and balms can double as moisturisers, so buying both may duplicate function. Fragrance-free options are less likely to sting freshly shaved skin. If your skin is dry or reactive, a plain cream applied after rinsing may be all you need, while oily skin may prefer a light gel.

Regular daily use helps protect against long-term sun damage, including premature ageing and skin cancer risk, and exposed areas such as the face, ears, neck and any thinning scalp are often forgotten. Choose a texture you will wear consistently, such as a light lotion or gel, and apply a generous layer. A product you skip because it feels greasy offers little benefit.

Mostly in scent, packaging and marketing. Formulas are often similar to unisex products, so choose by ingredients and skin type rather than by the label. Shaving does bring specific needs, such as a soothing aftershave, and beard skin may feel different, but a plain cleanser, moisturiser and sunscreen suit most people. Price rarely tracks quality, so comparing ingredient lists helps.

For persistent or painful acne, unusual or changing moles, spots that bleed, itch or do not heal, or sudden rashes, seek professional assessment from a doctor or dermatologist rather than adjusting your routine. Regular self-checks of skin help you notice changes early, and routine products cannot diagnose or treat these problems.