You’ve mastered the essentials: cleanser, moisturizer, SPF. That’s your foundation. Solid. But if you’re ready to push past the basics and start seeing more results, it’s time to upgrade your routine with products that work harder and smarter.
Here’s how to level up — and the science behind why it matters.
1. Target Your Skin Goals with a Serum
Serums are lightweight, fast-absorbing liquids packed with high concentrations of active ingredients. Think of them as your skin’s problem-solvers.
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Dullness or uneven tone? Look for Vitamin C (ascorbic acid).
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Breakouts or congestion? Try niacinamide or salicylic acid (BHA).
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Fine lines? Choose a serum with retinol (or clean retinol substitutes which we talk about here).
Why it works: Serums deliver actives deeper into your skin than moisturizers can — straight to the source.
2. Cleanser 2.0: Choose Based on Your Skin’s Chemistry
Still using that generic face wash from your "Skincare: 101" phase? Time to refine.
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Oily/acne-prone skin: Use a gel cleanser with salicylic acid.
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Dry/sensitive skin: Try a cream cleanser with ceramides and glycerin.
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Heavy sweat or pollution exposure: Use charcoal or clay-based cleansers a few times a week.
Why it works: The right cleanser preps your skin for everything that comes next.
3. Add an Eye Cream to Fight Fatigue and Fine Lines
The skin around your eyes is thinner and ages faster. An eye cream with targeted actives makes a big difference.
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Caffeine: Reduces puffiness
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Peptides: Firm and support collagen
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Hyaluronic acid: Hydrates and smooths
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Vitamin C or Niacinamide: Brighten dark circles
Why it works: Eye creams are designed with smaller molecules to absorb into delicate under-eye skin where regular moisturizers might fail.
4. Exfoliate — But Make It Chemical
Skip the rough scrubs. Chemical exfoliants work deeper and are gentler on skin — especially if you shave regularly.
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AHAs (e.g., glycolic or lactic acid): Smooth skin and fade spots
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BHAs (e.g., salicylic acid): Clear pores and reduce breakouts
Why it works: Chemical exfoliants speed up cell turnover, unclog pores, and improve absorption of the rest of your routine.
5. SPF with Benefits
Already wearing sunscreen? Good. Now upgrade it.
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Look for: Broad-spectrum SPF 30+ with Vitamin E or ferulic acid for added protection
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Oily skin? Choose zinc oxide mineral formulas for a matte finish
Why it works: UV rays are the top cause of premature aging. Modern SPFs can also hydrate and defend against pollution.
Bonus: Weekly Face Mask = Low Effort, High Impact
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Clay masks: Clear pores and control oil
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Hydrating masks: Boost moisture with hyaluronic acid or squalane
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Sheet masks: Great for post-shave or post-flight recovery
Why it works: A once-a-week mask boosts your routine without adding daily steps.
Bottom Line:
You don’t need more steps — you need smarter ones. Products that match your biology, your environment, and your goals. That’s where Henkey’s comes in.
Not sure what’s right for your skin? Ask our chatbot or email us anytime at hey@henkeys.com.
Henkey’s: Built for men. Curated by us.
Sources:
Level Up: The Smarter Skincare Routine for Men Who’ve Nailed the Basics
You’ve mastered the essentials: cleanser, moisturizer, SPF. That’s your foundation. Solid. But if you’re ready to push past the basics and start seeing more results, it’s time to upgrade your routine with products that work harder and smarter.
Here’s how to level up — and the science behind why it matters.
1. Target Your Skin Goals with a Serum
Serums are lightweight, fast-absorbing liquids packed with high concentrations of active ingredients. Think of them as your skin’s problem-solvers.
Why it works: Serums deliver actives deeper into your skin than moisturizers can — straight to the source.
2. Cleanser 2.0: Choose Based on Your Skin’s Chemistry
Still using that generic face wash from your "Skincare: 101" phase? Time to refine.
Why it works: The right cleanser preps your skin for everything that comes next.
3. Add an Eye Cream to Fight Fatigue and Fine Lines
The skin around your eyes is thinner and ages faster. An eye cream with targeted actives makes a big difference.
Why it works: Eye creams are designed with smaller molecules to absorb into delicate under-eye skin where regular moisturizers might fail.
4. Exfoliate — But Make It Chemical
Skip the rough scrubs. Chemical exfoliants work deeper and are gentler on skin — especially if you shave regularly.
Why it works: Chemical exfoliants speed up cell turnover, unclog pores, and improve absorption of the rest of your routine.
5. SPF with Benefits
Already wearing sunscreen? Good. Now upgrade it.
Why it works: UV rays are the top cause of premature aging. Modern SPFs can also hydrate and defend against pollution.
Bonus: Weekly Face Mask = Low Effort, High Impact
Why it works: A once-a-week mask boosts your routine without adding daily steps.
Bottom Line:
You don’t need more steps — you need smarter ones. Products that match your biology, your environment, and your goals. That’s where Henkey’s comes in.
Not sure what’s right for your skin? Ask our chatbot or email us anytime at hey@henkeys.com.
Henkey’s: Built for men. Curated by us.
Sources: