“Your nose is congested. You need to get these charcoal strips. They'll clear that right up.” After my nose pores were so beautifully pointed out, I decided to do some research about how to reduce them. 

I started the tiresome googling of my “symptoms,” and I was swamped by lots of articles, almost shouting advice at me and selling products at the same time. It didn't show me anything, so I turned to the next best thing — going to the shop and airing my worries to an employee who wasn't ready for the number of questions I had.

Do you have dry skin or oily skin?

I guess it is oily?

Do you want something to soothe your skin or remove blemishes?

Blemishes? Google never informed me of those. I guess... remove blemishes?

Do you have a night-time skincare routine?

Let’s face it: the beauty industry has long been dominated by products and routines marketed primarily to women. But today, more men are recognising that self-care isn’t just about looking good; it is about feeling good, too. 

If you have ever found yourself motivated to start a skincare routine or a new grooming habit, only to drop it after a couple of days, you are not alone. Consistency can be a challenge, but with the right approach, you can make self-care a permanent part of your life. 

Here is how to start — and stick with it.

Washing your face before bed is a simple yet often overlooked step in your morning and nighttime routine. Even if you have already showered after work or the gym, it is important not to skip this. Cleansing your face every night helps remove the buildup of pollution and dirt from the day. Make it a habit to maintain clear, healthy skin.

What do I recommend?

I use The Aesop Amazing Face Cleanser, a gentle, citrus-infused gel designed for combination and oily skin. It effectively removes excess oil and impurities without stripping moisture, leaving the skin clean, balanced, and refreshed.

Exfoliating the face before bed removes dead skin cells that have built up throughout the day. When the skin begins to repair overnight, time is not wasted on cells that are already dead as you have been smart enough to get rid before going to sleep.

What do I recommend?

I personally love the Wishful Yo Glow AHA & BHA Enzyme Scrub. This formula combines pineapple and papaya enzymes to exfoliate dead skin cells, unclog pores, and even out skin tone. I find the formula light and easy to use and something I also love the smell of. 

Night creams generally contain more hydrating ingredients and tend to be richer in texture than day moisturisers. Allowing for ultimate hydration to the skin whilst you sleep.

What do I recommend?

One of my favourite products is The Strength Trainer Peptide Boost Moisturizer by Ole Henrikson. With its hydrating formula that strengthens the skin's moisture barrier, I love this cream. It is enriched with peptides, amino acids, and ceramides, which help firm and plump the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. 

Using a serum in your nighttime skincare routine is crucial because it contains a higher concentration of active ingredients that target specific skin concerns, such as hyperpigmentation and acne. Serums also provide hydration, support skin repair overnight, and can boost the effectiveness of other products like moisturisers. 

What do I recommend?

One of my favourite products is The &Som Anti Aging Serum. It is the most powerful serum I have ever used. It is a powerful, multi-action formula designed to combat signs of ageing. Infused with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and peptides, this serum works to deeply hydrate, brighten the complexion, and improve skin elasticity.

The eyes take the biggest toll than the rest of your face, therefore need the most looking after. Once the skin has been moisturised an eye cream should be generously patted around and under the eyes. This allows you to wake up with bright, well rested eyes.

What do I recommend?

I adore the Avocado Eye Cream by Kiehls which is enriched with avocado oil to reduce dark circles and puffiness. Its rich yet lightweight formula absorbs easily, leaving your skin soft and refreshed. 

A simple but effective beard oil is a bathroom and night-time routine must-have. Enriched with essential oils and herbs, it'll make even the thickest of beards soft. Don't forget to brush it as well. Get rid of those tangles.

Evernight, I use the Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density by The Ordinary. This concentrated serum is designed to enhance hair thickness and promote overall hair health. Formulated with a blend of peptides, biotin, and other key ingredients, it works to nourish the hair follicles and keep hair thick.