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Top 6 best facial cleansers for men

Along with facial hair and sensitivity from shaving, did you know that men's skin also differs biologically from women's due to male hormones that can contribute to breakouts and having a thicker texture? Specially formulated to treat male skin, these targeted cleansers contain a blend of purifying and moisturising ingredients to help keep the complexion clear and comfortable.

How does male skin differ from female skin?

“Men’s skin characteristics are mainly dictated by the hormones" explains Bertie Baker, senior product brand manager, L’Oréal Men Expert. "Compared to women’s, the secretion of androgens is much higher which explains both the physiological and structural differences between men’s and women’s skin. Some of the results of it are:

  • Men have thicker skin, as men’s dermis has a higher collagen density.
  • Later but more rapid aging: men’s skin is more elastic though it declines faster. Wrinkles appear later but once they do, the skin is wrinkled faster and deeper.
  • Greater sebaceous function: sebum secretion is higher on men, so men tend to have more often oily skin than women.”

The good news for any men new to skincare, is that it doesn't have to take a lot of time and effort to achieve maximum results. "A comprehensive skincare routine can take as little as few minutes in the morning & evening" he assures. One of the most important steps in a man's skincare routine, along with moisturising, "cleansing helps remove dirt, impurities & irritants from the skin, providing the optimal surface to add further skincare steps like a moisturiser" explains Bertie, who says the face should be cleansed both morning and evening for the best results and skin health. Bertie's top tip: "When using a cleanser, do not apply too much pressure to your skin with hands or a cloth; damage is most often caused by rough application".

What are the best cleansers for men?

1. Origins GinZing Refreshing Scrub Cleanser 150ml

115

£22.00

With jojoba and carnauba wax, the Origins GinZing Refreshing Scrub Cleanser instantly refreshes and energises the complexion. Gentle enough for daily use, the formula works to unclog pores and helps remove dirt and impurities for a brighter, smoother base that feels rejuvenated. 

2. ESPA Optimal Skin Pro-Cleanser 100ml

87

RRP: £32.00Current price: £24.00

Powered by fruit, botanical extracts and pumpkin enzymes that help to effectively cleanse and polish the skin with ESPA’s Optimal Skin Pro-Cleanser. Encourage a wide-awake, brighter-looking appearance while hydrating the complexion, as the Omega + Vitamin Complex protects the skin’s moisture barrier function.  

3. Clinique for Men Face Wash 200ml

Designed for daily use both morning and evening, the Clinique Face Wash works to deeply clean the skin, removing excess oil and dirt from the skin's surface and deep within the pores. Gentle yet effective, the cleanser also hydrates the skin to leave your face feeling refreshed and clean.   

4. Bulldog Skincare For Men Original Face Wash 150ml

31

RRP: £5.00Current price: £3.75

A cult-favourite in male grooming, the award-winning Bulldog Original Face Wash is a great first face wash for anyone new to cleansing. Containing eight essential oils and antioxidant-rich green tea, the face wash removes all traces of dirt without stripping or irritating the skin.   

5. L'Oréal Men Expert Hydra Energetic Anti-Fatigue Face Wash 100ml

Bertie's top pick for normal, combination or maturing skin, the L'Oréal Men Expert Hydra Energetic Face Wash contains vitamin C which "provides an instant wake-up effect and energises skin". Guarana extract in the formula naturally contains caffeine, giving the complexion a pick me up, brightening and helping to unblock pores. 

6. CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser with Salicylic Acid for Dry, Rough & Bumpy Skin 236ml

Effective in smoothing a rough and bumpy skin texture, the CeraVe Smoothing Cleanser helps to reduce breakouts and reduce oil production using salicylic acid, a chemical exfoliant. Suitable even for those with sensitive skin, the cleanser contains ultra-hydrating hyaluronic acid and plumping ceramides and can be used on the body as well to tackle stubborn spots on the back and arms. 
Hannah Pourhady
Hannah Pourhady Writer and expert

My large family of mainly women has made me passionate about all things beauty from a young age: from routines passed down from my grandmother, to trying the latest products and trends. After training as an MUA at MAC Cosmetics, my love for makeup has now evolved into making sure my skincare creates the perfect canvas for any look. I love anything that can make my base feel fresh & bright while accentuating my features – Bobbi Brown's Face Base is my holy grail at the moment!

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