A good skincare routine can help keep your skin healthy, free from blemishes, and more youthful-looking as you age. Although there is a lot of information out there for women on how to properly care for their skin, information for men is a little bit harder to come by. Even though many of the steps are the same, men’s skin does have some unique requirements. This basic guide to skin care for men outlines the most important steps that you should take to keep your skin looking and feeling its best.

1. Identify your skin type.

Before you decide which skin care products to use, you first need to figure out what type of skin you have. Start by determining if your skin is oily, dry, or a combination of both. If your face tends to look shiny throughout the day, you probably have oily skin. On the other hand, if you get dry, flaky patches, you lean more toward dry skin.

If you have frequent breakouts, look for products that are specifically formulated for acne-prone skin. Sensitivity is another common issue that men deal with. Shaving can cause irritation and can make the skin more sensitive to certain skincare ingredients. If you find that your skin is easily irritated, look for fragrance-free products that are designed especially for sensitive skin.

2. Use the right type of cleanser.

Instead of scrubbing your face with a standard bar of soap, invest in a high-quality facial cleanser. These cleansers are designed to remove dirt and oil without leaving your skin dry or irritated. When choosing a cleanser, search for one that is designed to work well with whatever type of skin you have. Wash your face at least once a day. Avoid over-washing it, however, since your skin relies on natural oils to maintain its health.

3. Use a moisturizer.

Moisturizers are designed to deliver essential hydration to your skin, helping it look smoother and more youthful. When used consistently, they can help prevent wrinkles. They also can improve your skin’s ability to withstand the friction of shaving, meaning that you may experience less irritation when you shave. Consider looking for a moisturizer that has a built-in sunscreen. That way, you only have to apply one product to moisturize your skin and protect it from the sun.

4. Minimize UV Damage

If you don’t want to use a moisturizer that has built-in SPF, you should invest in a bottle of high-quality sunscreen. Apply the sunscreen to your face any time that you are going to be outdoors. If you are outside for longer than a couple of hours, you should periodically reapply it to ensure that your skin stays protected. This is especially important if you are swimming, scuba diving, surfing, or participating in other water-based activities. Sunscreen helps reduce UV-related skin damage, which can not only prevent wrinkles and age spots but can also lower your risk of developing skin cancer.

This guide to skin care for men should give you all of the information that you need to keep your skin looking amazing, both now and in the future.