Best Face Creams for Men

While the market has always heavily favored skincare products for women, the focus on men has dramatically increased over the past several years, and with good reason.  More men now than ever are adding a daily moisturizer or face cream into their skincare routine.

A quality face cream will give your skin a younger and healthier appearance by adding moisture and erasing fine lines and wrinkles.

Today we’ll be reviewing several of the best face creams for men of all skin types, including oily, dry, normal, combination, and sensitive skin.  

Let’s begin.

Face Moisturizers Compared

RankingProductSizeScentAll Natural?Container TypePrimary BenefitContains SPF?PricePrice per OunceAwardRating
1Jack Black Double-Duty Face Moisturizer3.30PeppermintYesPumpMoisturizingYes$28$8.48Best Overall98
2Cetaphil Face Moisturizer3.00UnscentedNoPumpMoisturizingYes$14$4.67For Sensitive Skin95
3Neutrogena Hydro Boost Face Moisturizer1.70UnscentedNoJarMoisturizingNo$20$11.76For Dry Skin94
4Anthony Oil Free Facial Lotion3.00CitrusYesTubeMoisturizingNo$29$9.67For Oily Skin93
5Brickell Men’s Daily Essential Face Moisturizer4.00UnscentedYesBottleMoisturizingNo$35$8.75For Combination Skin90
6Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream with Squalane0.95UnscentedNoJarMoisturizingNo$20$21.05For Normal Skin89
7Hims Anti-Aging Cream1.00Light NaturalNoJarFine Lines and WrinklesNo$29$29.00For Anti-Aging88
8Bulldog Original Moisturiser3.30Clean, FreshYesTubeMoisturizingNo$9$2.73Affordable87
9Aesop Avail Facial Lotion1.70HerbaceousNoBottleMoisturizingYes$60$35.29With SPF86
10ELEMIS Lotion for Men1.60CitrusYesBottleMoisturizingNo$45$28.13Luxury85
11Ursa Major Fortifying Face Balm2.50UnscentedYesPumpMoisturizingNo$34$13.60Natural Base83
12OffCourt Protein-Activated Facial Hydrator2.00Citrus and WoodyNoBottleMoisturizingNo$13$6.50For the Gym82

12 Best Face Creams for Men

Here’s our list of the best men’s face moisturizers currently available:

Jack Black Double-Duty Face Moisturizer SPF 20

Best Overall

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What We Think:

The Jack Black Double-Duty Face Moisturizer SPF 20 is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a versatile and effective face cream. With its natural ingredients and SPF protection, this cream will keep your face feeling moisturized and protected all day long.

Pros

Naturally formulated

Effective results

Travel friendly

Cons

A bit pricey

We have always been a fan of the quality products that Jack Black makes.  From their award-winning lip balm to their extraordinarily effective shave lube, you can always expect the products to exceed expectations – and the Jack Black Double-Duty Face Moisturizer SPF 20 is no exception.

What is great about this face cream is its versatility.  Whether you have sensitive, dry, normal, or even slightly oily skin, this face cream effectively keeps your face well-nourished and moisturized.

So what makes this face cream so incredibly versatile?

First and foremost, the ingredients contained with the moisturizer are gluten-free, fragrance-free, paraben-free, and certified organic.  Beyond the incredibly non-abrasive ingredients, you will also find that this doubles as a great sun protectant as well – with an SPF 20 rating.

What customers are saying: This face cream is praised for its lightweight, non-greasy texture, and SPF 20 protection, making it a great value for its price. However, some customers with sensitive skin experienced irritation and found the SPF not strong enough. The pump was also an issue for a few reviewers.

Compatible Skin Types: All

Size: 3.3 oz

SPF Protection: 20

Cetaphil Face Moisturizer, Daily Oil-Free Hydrating Face Lotion with Hyaluronic Acid

For Sensitive Skin

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What We Think:

Got sensitive skin? Cetaphil is Clinically tested and long-lasting, the water-based formulation will absorb nicely into your skin without any synthetic fragrances.

Pros

Formulation has few ingredients

Goes on light

Fragrance-free

It won’t clog pores

Cons

The pump container may lead to some waste

Cetaphil is the #1 Dermatologist Recommended facial skincare brand for a good reason – they make effective and gentle products.  If you have sensitive skin and are looking for a face cream that won’t irritate, then Cetaphil is among the best.  Clinically tested and long-lasting, the water-based formulation will absorb nicely into your skin. In addition, the face cream is free of synthetic fragrances, a common cause of irritation. 

At only 3 oz, you can take this moisturizer with you anywhere.

What customers are saying: Some customers mention skin irritation and watery consistency issues, while others praise the product for being lightweight, highly moisturizing, and improving skin dryness.

Compatible Skin Types:  All, Sensitive

Size: 3 oz

SPF Protection: No

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Face Moisturizer Gel-Cream

For Dry Skin

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What We Think:

Men with exceptionally dry skin will find that the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Face Moisturizer Gel-Cream provides long-lasting hydration and prevents dryness from recurring. If you have extra-dry skin, you know how important it is to find a face cream loaded with proven humectants.

Pros

Proven ingredients

Non-comedogenic

Trusted brand

Cons

The container might make things a bit messy

If you have extra-dry skin, you know it’s essential to get a face cream loaded with proven humectants.  When reviewing your options, there is none better than the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Face Moisturizer Gel-Cream.  With a hyaluronic acid base, a substance that can hold 1,000 times its weight in water, this gel-cream will work hard to restore your skin’s moisture barrier.  

After initial application, expect your skin to look noticeably more hydrated and supple for 48 hours.

What customers are saying: People find this face cream effective in moisturizing and softening their skin, without feeling greasy. However, some with sensitive skin have experienced redness and irritation after using the product.

Compatible Skin Types: Dry

Size: 1.7 oz

SPF Protection: No

Anthony Oil Free Facial Lotion

For Oily Skin

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What We Think:

Finally, a moisturizer that reduces shine and will keep your skin feeling hydrated all day long! This lotion has a light, creamy texture that absorbs quickly and doesn’t leave any residue.

Pros

Matte-finish

Easy-to-use tube

Also tones skin

Cons

Not suited for sensitive skin

The Anthony Oil Free Facial Lotion leaves a matte finish that works exceptionally well for men with oily skin by relying on a glycerin-base.  Aside from glycerin, the Anthony Oil Free Facial Lotion contains chamomile, ginger, aloe, and mushroom extracts, providing a soothing and calm sensation to the skin while reducing fine lines, crow’s feet, and wrinkles.  

The convenient 3 oz tube design makes the application quick and easy – perfect if you travel or go to the gym.

What customers are saying: Customers find the product effective for non-greasy moisturizing and reducing oiliness in the T-zone, with a refreshing and lightweight feel. However, some report issues with strong scents, packaging problems, and varying effectiveness for different skin types.

Compatible Skin Types:  Normal, Oily

Size: 3 oz

SPF Protection: No

Brickell Men’s Daily Essential Face Moisturizer

For Combination Skin

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What We Think:

The toughest skin type to manage is combination skin. You want something that is lightweight and effective, and the Brickell Men’s Daily Essential Face Moisturizer is a great choice. Made from aloe and jojoba oil, this face cream will absorb nicely into the skin to leave a healthy and soothing finish.

Pros

Lightweight and natural formula

Leaves your skin healthy-looking

Cons

Too big for travel

A good face lotion for combination skin should be lightweight and effective.  If you are trying to manage combination skin, consider the Brickell Men’s Daily Essential Face Moisturizer.  Made from aloe and jojoba oil, this unscented face cream will absorb nicely into the skin to leave a healthy and soothing finish.

For men who are a bit older, you’ll love the inclusion of hyaluronic acid, which should help reduce some of those premature signs of aging, especially around the mouth and eyes.  Lastly, the moisturizer is made in the USA.

What customers are saying: Many customers highly praise this face moisturizer, citing its effectiveness for dry skin and the fact that a little goes a long way. They appreciate the Brickell brand and the improvements seen in their skin. However, some find the moisturizer greasy and dislike the scent, while others mention the relatively high price.

Compatible Skin Types: Combination, All.

Size: 4 oz.

SPF Protection: No

Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream with Squalane

For Normal Skin

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What We Think:

If you’ve ever tried a face cream and felt like it was too heavy or made your skin feel oily, give the Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream a go. Made with squalane to help your skin retain moisture, this light cream is perfect for normal to oily skin types. It’s also paraben, dye, and fragrance-free, so it’s gentle enough for those with sensitive skin.

Pros

Proven ingredients to nourish your skin from the inside out

Suitable for all skin types

Cons

No SPF protection

Your skin’s moisture barrier helps to lock in moisture while also protecting you from external elements.  Squalane, derived from olives, mimics the lipids that your skin produces.  When included in a face cream, such as the Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream, squalane helps deliver oils and nourishment for your skin to look its best.

Made for all skin types, including sensitive skin, the Kiehl’s face cream will deliver moisture for 24 hours.  The formula is paraben, dye, and fragrance-free.  You should also know that Kiehl’s makes a small 1 oz variety, perfect for testing or travel.

What customers are saying: Customers report that this face cream is effective at moisturizing even sensitive skin, but some are disappointed with the amount of product and packaging issues.

Compatible Skin Types:  All

Size: 4.2 oz

SPF Protection: No

Hims Anti-Aging Cream

For Anti-Aging
Hims Anti Aging Cream

What We Think:

The Hims Anti-Aging Cream is a great option for those looking for a powerful face cream to help reduce the signs of aging. With its combination of retinol, niacinamide, and azelaic acid, this cream will help improve your skin’s elasticity, firmness, and collagen production.

Pros

Proven formula

Gets rid of deep-set wrinkles and crow’s feet

Affordable

90-day money-back guarantee

Cons

Requires some effort to purchase

There is no beating around the bush – getting old stinks. So, rather than diligently applying a lotion to your face and hoping for the best, we recommend that you consider a proven face cream such as the Hims Anti-Aging Cream.  

Relying on tretinoin, a derivative of vitamin A (retinol), this substance will work hard to increase collagen, improve skin elasticity, and erase signs of aging.  You’ll also find niacinamide, and azelaic acid, both of which help firm and tone your skin.

Unlike other face creams on our list, the Hims Anti-Aging Cream does require a prescription.  However, this is relatively easy to obtain by just answering a few quick questions and having a short online consultation with a healthcare provider – all of which is set up effortlessly through the Hims site.

Compatible Skin Types:  All

SPF Protection: No

Bulldog Original Moisturiser

Affordable

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What We Think:

This face cream packs a punch with its blend of natural ingredients, but it’s still gentle enough to use on all skin types. At such an affordable price, it’s definitely worth a try!

Pros

Well-made

Quality ingredients

A few different moisturizers are available

Cons

No SPF

As you may have caught in our recent review of Bulldog Skincare, we fell in love with their Original Moisturizer.  The velvet-like cream will work smoothly into your skin to provide a more youthful and healthy appearance.

Full of premium ingredients, including aloe, camelina, and green tea, the moisturizer provides exceptional value. However, just because this moisturizer is cheap doesn’t mean that it’s only available in one variety. For example,  Bulldog currently makes moisturizers for sensitive skin, anti-aging, and oil control.

What customers are saying: Customers rave about this face cream’s excellent moisturizing capabilities, effectiveness for various skin types, and affordable price. However, a few found the scent to be too strong or the cream too thick for their liking.

Compatible Skin Types:  All

Size: 3.3 oz

SPF Protection: No

Aesop Avail Facial Lotion with Sunscreen

With SPF

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What We Think:

Top-tier ingredients and results with the Aesop Avail Facial Lotion with Sunscreen make it a great choice for anyone who wants reliable SPF protection while keeping their skin healthy.

Pros

Vegan

Lightweight formula

Sustainable design

Cons

Poor value

If you are regularly outdoors for a short period and are looking for a face cream that has some SPF protection, then your best bet will be the Aesop Avail Facial Lotion with Sunscreen.  With a sun protection factor rating of 25, it’ll block 96% of UVA and UVB rays.

Made for all skin types, the lightweight and thin Aesop facial lotion will absorb quickly and leave your skin with a matte finish.  Of course, given that Aesop makes this, you can expect uncompromising ingredients and top-notch results.

What customers are saying: This face cream is highly regarded for its excellent texture and effectiveness as both a lotion and sunscreen.

Compatible Skin Types: All

Size: 1.8 oz

SPF Protection: 25

ELEMIS Daily Moisture Boost Hydrating Day Lotion for Men

Luxury

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What We Think:

Want to splurge on your skincare routine? Consider this face cream from Elemis. Packed with natural ingredients, it’s sure to leave your skin looking and feeling amazing. Just be sure to patch test first if you have sensitive skin.

Pros

Helps to calm and tone skin

Concentrated formula

Cons

Pricey

If you demand the best from your skincare products, then you should consider this face cream by Elemis.  Packed with several natural ingredients, including a green tamanu oil, cactus extract, and more, this moisturizer by Elemis should prove effective in keeping your face looking great.

You can expect this concentrated daily moisturizer to nourish and moisturize your skin quickly.  The balanced formula should make it suitable for all skin types.  However, men with sensitive skin may want to patch test before applying as it does contain several ingredients.

What customers are saying: Mixed reviews highlight the efficacy of the product for some, with its non-oily formula and effectiveness in post-shave softening, but others report issues such as an unfavorable reaction to the skin and a need for frequent shaking due to possible separation.

Compatible Skin Types: All, Dry

Size: 1.69 oz

SPF Protection: No

Ursa Major Fortifying Face Balm

Natural Base

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What We Think:

Ursa Major proves that you can strike a perfect balance of environmental consciousness and delivering excellent results with their products. The Fortifying Face Balm is no exception – it’s a top-notch face cream that leaves your skin looking healthy and hydrated.

Pros

Natural base

Goes on light

Cons

Thin consistency requires a liberal application

Just because you like naturally-made products doesn’t mean you should settle for poor results.  As we unearthed in our recent review, Ursa Major is a leader in responsibly-made grooming products.  With an aloe, glycerin, and sunflower oil base, we found that their Fortifying Face Balm does an excellent job protecting the skin’s natural moisture barrier.

This face cream absorbs nicely into the skin for hydrated and healthy-looking results with a thin and lightweight body.

Ursa Major is a Certified-B corporation and is located in Vermont.  Lastly, all their products are made in the USA.

What customers are saying: People enjoy the lightweight, non-oily texture of this facial cream and find it effective for moisturizing their skin. However, some customers found it lacking in moisture or experienced adverse reactions, while others felt the bottle size may not justify the price.

Compatible Skin Types:  Normal, Oily

Size: 2.5 oz

SPF Protection: No

OffCourt Protein-Activated Facial Hydrator

For the Gym

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What We Think:

If you hit the gym hard, you need OffCourt’s Protein-Activated Facial Hydrator in your life. It will help restore lost moisture and provide a subtle cooling sensation to your skin. We love that it’s oil-free and lightweight, and that it comes in a convenient 2 oz size – a perfect companion for your gym bag or toiletry kit.

Pros

Cools the skin

Matte finish

Cons

A bigger size would be nice

During our in-depth review of OffCourt, we discovered that their ​​Protein-Activated Facial Hydrator performed unlike any other face cream on the market. Explicitly designed for post-gym use, the facial hydrator restores lost moisture while also providing a subtle cooling sensation to the skin upon application.

The oil-free and lightweight formula absorbs quickly, even while cooling off after a lengthy spin class.  The 2 oz size can also effortlessly squeeze into your favorite gym bag or Dopp kit.

What customers are saying: People love this face moisturizer for its pleasant scent, non-greasy formula, and effectiveness on both dry and sensitive skin. Many find it perfect for use after shaving or workouts, and the cooling effect is well-received. However, some are unclear about its “sweat tuned” functionality.

Compatible Skin Types:  All

Size: 2 oz

SPF Protection: No

5 Considerations before Buying a Face Moisturizer

When buying a new face cream, take a moment to consider the following:

1. Correctly identifying your skin type before purchasing

For effective results, you should buy a face cream made for your skin type.  Here’s what you should be mindful of:

  • Oily Sky: Go with a non-comedogenic face cream (doesn’t clog pores).  An oil-free face cream will reduce shine and, in severe cases, acne.   Oils with a high comedogenic rating include coconut oil, palm kernel oil, and marula oil – avoid these ingredients.  Companies sell oil-free and non-comedogenic moisturizers for this reason.
  • Dry Skin:  Should you have dry, ashy, or flaking skin, go with a moisture-rich face cream containing oils and other humectants.  A hydrating-focused moisturizer will alleviate mild irritation, fine lines, and wrinkles resulting from dry skin.
  • Normal or Combination Skin:  You’ll want to consider a standard face moisturizer not formulated for a specific skin type.
  • Sensitive Skin:  If you have sensitive skin, go with a fragrant-free and delicate moisturizer.  Moisturizers made for sensitive skin will often contain fewer ingredients, lessening the chances of irritation from occurring.

2. Should you get a face cream, gel, moisturizer, lotion, or serum?

Honestly, face creams, gels, moisturizers, lotions, and serums are all effectively the same product, so it doesn’t matter which one you choose.  Nuances on labeling are at the company’s discretion.  Some companies may use words like a serum to convey a more luxurious name – and consequently, a higher price.

3. Should you get a facial moisturizer that contains SPF?

Buying a facial moisturizer with SPF is better than not applying any sunscreen at all.  However, SPF in facial moisturizing products is often diluted.  Additionally, when using face cream, most men will usually apply it much thinner when compared to sunscreen.  

The takeaway: if you are going to be outdoors for an extended period, it’s still best to use sunscreen rather than relying on face cream for protection.

4. The weather may impact your decision

Just because you purchase face cream during the summer months doesn’t mean it will be the best choice for your skin during the winter months.  Climate and humidity can impact the texture of your skin. For example, during dry winter months, a moisture-rich face cream will alleviate dry and chapped skin. However, using this same moisture-rich face cream in the summer may cause an oily and shiny forehead.  The point is, consider the climate where you live when making your decision.

5. Does age matter when buying face cream?

No, age is only a number when it comes to whether or not you should be applying face creams.  However, older men may want anti-aging face creams as they contain substances such as hyaluronic acid, which can hold 1,000 times its weight in water – making it incredibly effective at erasing fine lines and wrinkles.

Adam Williams

As the lead editor of Tools of Men, Adam loves men's grooming products. Particularly of interest is managing facial hair and perfecting the art of the modern man's skincare routine. His work has been featured or quoted in several publications, including New York Magazine, Vice, Sharpologist, MIC, Elite Daily, and more. When Adam isn't working, he enjoys spending time with his two little kids who keep him both on his toes and young at heart.

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