25 best face moisturizers for men in 2023

Should men moisturize their faces? The answer is simple—yes. It’s long overdue that you add a face moisturizer to your current meager line-up of a 2-in-1 shampoo, deodorant, toothpaste, and shaving cream.

While taking care of one’s appearance might in the past have been considered a woman’s chore, times have changed and now face moisturizers have become a vital part of every man’s skincare routine.

Male skin is nearly 20% thicker than that of a woman’s, but it also tends to be rougher, dryer and more clogged. Both men and women are exposed to wind, dust, pollutants in the atmosphere, and harmful UV rays that can irritate the skin barrier. Therefore, keeping your skin moisturized and protected is important not only to your personal comfort but also to your health.

So, what is best for you in this mysterious world of peptides, enzymes, and ceramides? Match your needs with our picks of the best face moisturizers for men, and you’re bound to find a favorite product that will keep your skin firm, vibrant, and youthful.

1. Blu Atlas | Face Moisturizer

There has been a slow, but steady rise in the normalization of men’s skincare routines, and many men are still catching up. If you don’t know where to start your moisturizing journey, check out this all-natural, ultra-hydrating face moisturizer by Blu Atlas.

Suitable for all skin types, it creates a powerful rejuvenating effect thanks to natural ingredients like seaweed extract, vitamin C, and mango seed butter. The brand is committed to its customers, and you can try this top-rated product at no risk thanks to Blu Atlas’ 30-day money-back guarantee. Transform your appearance with this botanical powerhouse today!

2. Murad | Clarifying Water Gel

Still battling annoying acne as an adult? Whenever you experiment with different skincare products or expose your skin to a new environment, those annoying acne spots can come back. This moderately priced moisturizer is a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer, designed for oily and acne-prone skin.

Besides being deeply hydrating, it exfoliates and gives your skin a non-greasy finish, and visibly reduces acne spots. Murad claims 92% of users have seen results within four weeks of using the clarifying oil-free water gel. Now that’s a product that an acne-ridden gentleman simply cannot go without.

3. Ghost Democracy | Clean Lightweight Daily Face Moisturizer

If you love gel creams, you’ll enjoy this one—it’s light, dewy, and absorbs well. Barely touch your finger with this soufflé-type moisturizer, and it’s plenty for one use. Ghost Democracy’s name speaks for itself since its products go almost invisible on the skin. This product skips sulfates, silicones, essential oils, drying alcohols, fragrances, parabens, and synthetic dyes, making it a perfect choice for highly sensitive skin.

Though it might not be enough for highly dry skin, it can be a great starting point for morning moisture. Easy to apply, non-greasy, and quick to absorb, it’s no surprise that this Ghost Democracy product has garnered thousands of positive reviews from customers across the nation and beyond.

4. Bulldog | Sensitive Moisturizer

With so many moisturizing creams on the market, it can be difficult to find one that is both natural and affordable. Look no further, as Bulldog has you totally covered for only $15! There’s no overpowering scent, and there’s no oiliness or stickiness.

Despite this, this product leaves a thick layer of moisture behind, making it suitable for the winter or for men who are susceptible to burns after shaving. To assist in rehydrating sensitive skin, Bulldog adds baobab extract, green tea, green algae, and vitamin E. A small quantity of this cream will do its magic by giving your skin a luminous shine.

5. Peter Thomas Roth | Water Drench Hyaluronic Cloud Cream

When you think of clouds, what is the first thing that comes to mind? Something airy, bouncy, and fluffy. Water Drench Hyaluronic Cloud Cream is the right name for this heavenly moisturizer.

The “cream” is more like a light lotion mixed with water, giving your face a velvety feel while still being quite nourishing. Pentavitin, a unique ingredient that can provide up to 72 hours of hydration, makes this moisturizer stand out from the crowd. Even if you’re someone who has tried a lot of moisturizers, this Peter Thomas Roth cream will be a real game-changer.

6. Brickell | Daily Essential Face Moisturizer

Brickell’s co-founders Josh Meyer and Matt Bolduc have created a truly premium men’s skincare using natural ingredients. This rich, silky moisturizer features soothing aloe vera and rejuvenating jojoba and comes with a fresh, masculine scent. A little of the product goes a long way, so a 4 oz bottle should last at least two to three months.

Millions of men believe in the brand, which is sold in over 100 countries and has appeared in GQ, Men’s Journal, Men’s Health, and numerous other publications. Needless to say, the stylish design of Brickell products makes them a great gift for any occasion.

7. Jack Black | Double-Duty Face Moisturizer with SPF 20

You’re missing out if you haven’t tried Double-Duty by Jack Black, a sophisticated facial moisturizer with SPF 20 sublock built-in. An anti-irritant sea parsley component and a blue algae extract form an ideal duo to visibly improve your skin’s appearance and make you look and feel your best. The formula hits two targets with one product: long-lasting hydration and protection of sun-damaged skin. What exactly are you waiting for? Make the investment, take care of your face, and you will notice the difference pretty quickly.

8. Ursa Major | Fortifying Face Balm

Ursa Major’s clean, natural, non-comedogenic ingredients and fragrance-free formula place it among the best moisturizers on this list. This is a rare treat that does not over-moisturize or add extra oil to your skin, making it suitable for all skin types, including the most volatile, sensitive, and acne-prone ones.

Soothing aloe, rejuvenating carrot, moisturizing olive oil, and redness-reducing birch sap are among the key ingredients. It is suitable for day and nighttime use, so you don’t need to splurge on two different products. Overall, Ursa Major’s versatility is hard to beat, making this Fortifying Face Balm an obvious choice for thousands of guys.

9. CeraVe | Facial Moisturizing Lotion

Your long-lost best friend is here. Highly praised by leading dermatologists, the CeraVe Facial Moisturizing Lotion’s fragrance-free formula makes it a universal go-to for scores of gentlemen. It’s compatible with a wide range of skin types, including those with severe sensitivities such as psoriasis, dermatitis, rosacea, and eczema, and goes a long way toward restoring damaged skin and improving moisture retention. Featuring hyaluronic acid and three essential ceramides, this cream offers an effective, yet the delicate approach to skincare.

10. Lubriderm | Men’s 3-in-1 Lotion

If you’re sick and tired of having a lot of skincare bottles, try Lubriderm’s 3-in-1 Men’s Lotion. This holy grail moisturizer is suitable for use on the entire body, face, and even as a post-shave moisturizer. It’s a low-cost, high-reward hydrator that’s packed with mineral oils, soothing aloe vera, and hyaluronic acid for immediate and long-lasting hydration. So, all things considered, it’s a no-brainer for any guy looking to maximize his time, money, and effort.

11. Jaxon Lane | Relax and Repair Ultimate Anti-Aging Moisturizer

This winner of the GQ Award for “Best Moisturizer” in 2021 is guaranteed to restore your skin’s youthful radiance. You can’t argue with the hydrating power of this moisturizer. Its odorless, smooth, and soft texture helps fight signs of aging and corrects fine lines and hyperpigmentation while providing all-day hydration.

Ceramides, centella asiatica, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid are all included in the formula to help prevent the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, roughness, and other signs of aging. You won’t feel like wearing a greasy face mask; instead, you’ll have a refreshed, vibrant face that will have your friends asking, “How is it that you never age?”

12. Kiehl’s | Age Defender Moisturizer

If you’re still unsure of your place in the world of skincare, you might want to try this moisturizer. Kiehl’s Age Defender Moisturizer is another excellent product that helps to strengthen skin while improving texture and elasticity. This dry skin savior contains linseed extract, which is known for reducing wrinkles and visibly firming skin, as well as caffeine, which is known for stimulating, energizing, and removing dullness.

However, this line-reducing concentrate is so powerful that you should only use a small amount to avoid feeling tense. This Age Defender Moisturizer is truly an all-in-one multitasking miracle for your skin!

13. Baxter of California | Oil Free Moisturizer

If you have oily skin, you should try Baxter’s Oil Free Moisturizer, which will leave your skin with a shine-free matte finish. It absorbs quickly and leaves no residue on the skin’s surface while still protecting and nourishing it. We’re talking about a a high-quality, alcohol-free, and reasonably priced moisturizer that contains a blend of plant extracts (aloe vera, chamomile, and herbal juices) to give you a refreshed, natural appearance. In a nutshell, it is simple and effective, just like skincare products should be.

14. Belif | Problem Solution Moisturizer

If you enjoy a simple and easy skincare routine and are always on the lookout for “multitasking products,” try Problem Solution Moisturizer by Belif. Its gentle, not super heavy, non-comedogenic gel-cream formula with natural white willow bark extract and tea tree oil absorbs quickly and hydrates the skin without irritation.

The best feature of this product is its cooling effect, which provides fantastic relief from acne inflammation while also leaving your skin feeling refreshed and clean without harsh drying effects.

15. Oars + Alps | Natural Face Moisturizer and Eye Cream

You can finally stop using your girlfriend’s high-end facial products, as now you have one of your own! The premium nourishing shea butter and jojoba oil in Oars + Alps’ Natural Face Moisturizer and Eye Cream absorb deeply into your pores to nourish and soothe skin. The antioxidant-rich formula is both lightweight and nourishing and free of alcohol and parabens, so it will not irritate the skin post-shave.

Best of all, the product is designed to be used both on the face and under-eye area. So, if you work late or like a big night out, this cream will easily de-puff your eye bags, leaving you feeling refreshed and ready to face the day.

16. Art of Sport | Daily Face Lotion

Art of Sport (AOS) is a personal care brand that was founded in partnership with the late basketball legend Kobe Bryant. Whether you’re a professional athlete or simply lead an active lifestyle, this Daily Face Lotion will be a game-changer, surprising you with how long it can keep your skin nourished.

Natural ingredients such as matcha, aloe vera, tea tree oil, activated charcoal, and shea butter thoroughly cleanse your skin while also leaving it feeling fresh and non-greasy. It’s no surprise that this product sells quickly, so if you see it on the shelf, grab it right away.

17. Geologie | Vital Morning Face Cream

If you’re still skeptical about the skincare hype and what difference it could make, try Geologie’s Vital Morning Face Cream.  This SPF moisturizer features a potent blend of niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and argan oil to keep your skin soft and matte throughout the day.

After a few weeks of use, your skin’s surface will be firm, bright, with no visible pores and no bags under your eyes. Geologie truly elevates the skincare game by utilizing only clinically proven active ingredients that hydrate, balance, and protect the skin.

18. Dr. Tusk | Moisturizer

Today’s Generation Z is a socially conscious audience that wants to see companies not only make great products but also have larger missions behind them. Dr. Tusk not only focuses on providing high-quality skincare products, but it also donates 5% of each order to non-profit organizations and elephant rehabilitation centers.

The moisturizer from this environmentally conscious brand uses natural ingredients such as hemp seed oil, caffeine, aloe vera, and charcoal, which are not only good for your skin but also great for the environment. Buy Dr. Tusk Moisturizer to stay hydrated and save elephants!

19. Youth to the People | Superfood Air-Whip Moisture Cream

Do the combinations “sensitive” and “irritated,” or “itchy” and “dry,” sound familiar to you? If so, you should consider applying a heavy and nourishing face cream. This is where the Superfood Air-Whip Moisture Cream by Youth to the People comes in. The combination of kale, spinach, green tea, and vitamins C and E, is ideal for hydrating and delivering vitamins to your skin—not to mention how delicious it smells. This cream consistently ranks at the top of beauty lists as one of the best face moisturizers every man simply must try.

20. Hawkins & Brimble | Elemi & Ginseng Daily Energising Moisturiser

This Hawkins & Brimble moisturizer is favored by barbershop professionals and has it all: it’s a stylish moisturizer that hydrates, rejuvenates, and gives skin a healthy glow! It’s elegant yet effortless, simple yet sophisticated, and polished while still being playful. It’s for men who want to look good with minimal effort.

The formula is enriched with vitamin E, and omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which deeply moisturize, restore normal pH balance after washing and boost the skin’s natural protective functions. The cream nourishes rough, dry, tired, and dull skin thanks to the nourishing avena sativa kernel oil and oatmeal extract. Check out this Hawkins & Brimble product today to give your skin what it deserves.

21. King C. Gillette | Face & Stubble Moisturizer

King C. Gillette’s packaging might look like it’s a jaw-droppingly expensive moisturizer, but it’s actually a low-priced cream. The brand is well-known for their quality facial care products, so it’s no wonder that bearded guys around the world adore this moisturizer. With the help of vitamins B3 (niacinamide), B5 (panthenol), and argan oil, the formula not only hydrates and soothes the skin, but also turns prickly facial hair into a silky version.

It also has a signature scent with notes of bergamot, geranium, and cedarwood, which is an inexpensive way to smell nice all day and another great reason to buy King C. Gillette’s Face and Stubble Moisturizer.

22. Rugged & Dapper | Age & Damage Defense Facial Moisturizer

This hardworking facial moisturizer by Rugged & Dapper is ideal for most skin types and serves a dual purpose of not only hydrating your face but also fighting post-shave irritation. Rather than creating complicated formulas, the company focuses on bringing the power of nature to your skin.

Because of this, this product is incredibly rich in nourishing botanicals (sunflower oil, palm oil, jojoba oil, and safflower oil) and highly effective organic ingredients, which will soften your skin, fight the appearance of wrinkles, and even out your skin tone. This hydrating, but not overly heavy cream is designed for daily use and will quickly become your new obsession.

23. Scotch Porter | Moisture Defend Face Lotion for Men

Still worried that lathering up with a moisturizer will undermine your masculinity? Scotch Porter’s top-rated face lotion will finally make you religiously moisturize every morning. This lightweight, smooth, and quick-absorbing formula is ideal for acne-prone skin as it visibly fades dark marks and blemishes while controlling shine. It contains turmeric root, which is a natural antiseptic to fight bacteria. The enticing masculine scent of smokey woods, amber notes, and citrus will leave a lasting impression. Scotch Porter’s Moisture Defend Face Lotion is your personal fountain of youth in a bottle.

24. Ceylon | Facial Moisturizer

When you live in a bustling city, have stressful work, and are exposed to a lot of air and water pollution, it can be difficult to keep your skin clear and healthy. Ceylon’s Facial Moisturizer formula was created specifically to combat these issues and improve the overall texture of your skin.

This rich, non-greasy, all-natural gentle mixture promises to shrink pores and prevent acne while also promoting shine and a healthy complexion overall. Simply slather this luxurious elixir on your face and you will get the silky-smooth skin you’ve always dreamt of.

25. The Fellowship | Advanced Moisturiser

The Fellowship is well-known and popular among men who value results-driven and high-performance products. Their Advanced Moisturiser is essential for keeping a polished appearance and a healthy glow throughout the day. It absorbs quickly, is easy to use, and comes in eco-friendly packaging.

A combination of natural and vitamin-rich ingredients, including hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, and shea butter, provides immediate and long-lasting skin hydration. This brand and product just do not cease to amaze.

Frequently Asked Questions | Best Face Moisturizers for Men

I think using a soap bar is enough, so why do I need to buy a moisturizer?

Using only soap can harm and irritate the skin on your face. Bar soaps can disrupt your skin’s pH balance, dry it out, and damage its barrier. This results in wrinkles, dullness, and lines. While soap bars are fine for the rest of your body, the skin on your face is much more delicate and can quickly become damaged.

Investing in high-quality skincare early in life is one of the most effective ways to keep your skin fresh. Keeping your skin hydrated helps to slow the aging process, reduce wrinkles, and make you look younger and more radiant.

How can I know when my skin lacks moisture?

When you experience tightness, dryness, and/or itchiness, those are signs that your skin needs to be hydrated. Moisturizers are designed to lock the water and natural oils on your face in place.

Depending on your skin type, the season, your level of physical activity, or whether you have a beard, consider upgrading your skincare routine with a lighter or heavier moisturizer throughout the year, as your skin’s needs change. Choose the right skincare product for your concerns, apply it to your skin every day, and you will not only see results, but you will also feel better.

How do I pick the right product?

Shopping for skincare products can be difficult, confusing, and costly. How to find what’s best for you in a world of high-end brands and low-cost drugstore alternatives is not always easy. While some products are truly worth splurging on, this does not always imply that you are purchasing the best product for yourself.

You need to know your skin type and the concerns you want to address—such as dry skin, signs of aging, wrinkles, and excessive oiliness.

The best way to determine what type of skin you have is to observe your skin in the morning before applying anything to it. If your skin shines, it means it’s oily. If you see rough patches or reddish, irritated zones, that means it’s dry. You will notice both if you have combination skin. If your skin reacts negatively to highly fragrant and chemical products or is prone to acne, you most likely have sensitive skin.

After determining your skin type, you should consider the kind of problem you’re trying to solve or avoid. To combat wrinkles and lines, look for anti-aging creams that contain vitamins and collagen, as these will help to rejuvenate the skin. If you want to fight oiliness, you should look into oil-free creams that reduce shine and provide a matte finish. If you have dry skin, look for a moisturizer that contains shea butter, which will coat your skin and prevent water loss.

Another thing to keep in mind is that even if you don’t have any visible problems, it’s time to start using a moisturizer to keep your skin looking young, fresh, and healthy.

When and how often to apply moisturizer?

Start by washing your face with a cleanser, foaming gel, or creamy face wash to remove dirt from your face and pores. This helps to prepare your skin’s surface for the protective barrier that a moisturizer provides.

After you’ve removed the dirt, your skin is ready for a moisturizer. Use one to lock in moisture, create a soothing and softening effect, and keep your skin protected and calm throughout the day.

A moisturizer should be applied twice a day, once in the morning and once before bedtime. By doing so, you ensure that your skin stays hydrated for an entire 24-hour period.

Can I use my girlfriend’s moisturizer?

It might not work on your skin. As we covered above, men’s skin is thicker; therefore, men’s skin products (such as moisturizers and creams) have to be designed to get through the additional layers. Men’s products typically contain more potent ingredients and formulations. Another minor, but the sometimes significant difference is that men’s skincare products tend to be less fragrant. To put it another way, if you can’t stand hortensias or rose odor, stick to men’s products.