Top Skin-Care Ingredients and Products for Men Over 50 (2025)

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• Isabelle Buneo

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If the dermatologists and skin-care experts in our lives have taught us anything, it’s that its never too late to start taking care of your skin. For a while, the skin care and beauty industry seemed to cater primarily to women, but innovations in male skin care over the past several years has paved the way for men everywhere to start prioritizing healthy, radiant skin. Whether you yourself are looking for the right skin-care routine for your aging male skin or you’re looking to help the men in your life get started on their skin-care journey no matter their age, we tapped dermatologists and skin-care experts for insight into the best skin-care routine for men over 50.

Featured Experts

• Marisa Garshick, MD is a dermatologist in New York
• Amy Peterson is a medical aesthetician and founder Skincare by Amy Peterson Clinic

What is the best skin-care routine for men over 50?

Nowadays, it can be hard to navigate the ever-growing world of skin-care products and decipher which steps are best for your specific skin concerns and needs. For men over, 50, though, Dr. Garshick recommends a relatively simple routine focussed on addressing damage and preventing signs of aging. “The best skin-care routine for men over 50 includes a cleanser, an antioxidant such as vitamin C, moisturizer and sunscreen in the morning,” she explains, “At night, a cleanser, a retinoid and a moisturizer are great options. Some men may also opt to use an eye cream to address puffiness.”

Peterson agrees, noting that, in her experience, men in their 50s want two main things out of their skin-care routines: simplicity and effectiveness. “At this age, skin starts to show more visible signs of aging,” she begins, “A regimen that includes powerhouse ingredients like peptides, antioxidants, and retinol is key. The goal is to boost collagen, improve texture, and support the skin barrier without adding unnecessary complexity. Men in their 50s are more active than ever these days so sunscreen is a non-negotiable. A daily SPF not only prevents future damage but helps preserve the results of any skincare investment.”

What ingredients are best for men over 50?

In the name of a simplistic, effective skin care, it’s advantageous for men over 50 looking to maximize their skin-care routine to know what ingredients to focus on. Generally, Peterson advises that men over “prioritize ingredients that address the skin barrier, hydration, and overall skin complexion in addition to protecting the skin from ongoing environmental stress.”

Peptides

One of Peterson’s top pics for mature male skin, peptides “are essential for supporting collagen and elastin,” she says. “They help to minimize skin laxity and improve skin density.”

Niacinamide

Another one of Peterson’s picks for men over 50, she highlights niacinamide as “another powerhouse ingredient that strengthens the skin barrier and calms inflammation all while improving discoloration.”

Antioxidants

As Dr. Garshick mentioned earlier, antioxidant support is also essential for men over 50, as ingredients like vitamin C help to address existing signs of aging while preventing more from arising. ”Antioxidants like vitamin C that help to protect the skin against free radical damage, working to improve the appearance of dark spots and discoloration,” she says.

Exfoliating Acids

“Exfoliating acids can also help helpful to brighten the skin and include ingredients like salicylic acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid and mandelic acid,” Dr. Garshick explains.

Ceramides & Glycerin

For men with aging skin, Peterson also highlights the importance of hydrating and nourishing ingredients like ceramides, glycerin and squalene. “Ceramides and squalane help restore the skin’s natural lipid barrier, locking in moisture and preventing water loss,” she explains. “Glycerin offers deep hydration, while plant-derived exosomes support regeneration at a cellular level.”

The Best Skin-Care Products for Men Over 50