The Ultimate Men’s Skincare Routine?

A few months ago, my approach to skincare could best be described as inconsistent at best. I’d tried countless products over the years, but none seemed to work without leaving my skin dry, irritated, or worse. Then I discovered Cowshed. Since incorporating their products into my daily routine, my skin has never felt better. Not only have I seen a noticeable improvement, but taking care of my skin has also become a moment of self-care I genuinely look forward to.

Here’s my simple, effective skincare routine, that has been a game-changer for my skin.

Morning Routine: Start the Day Fresh

  1. Energising Shower with Active Bath and Shower Gel
    I kick off my day with a shower using Cowshed’s Active Bath and Shower Gel. With lemongrass, ginger, and rosemary, it’s both invigorating and gentle on the skin—perfect after a gym session.
  2. Gentle Hair Care with Soften Shampoo
    My hair care is simple but effective. The Soften Shampoo, with May Chang and lemon, keeps my hair clean and manageable without over-stripping it.
  3. Hydrate with Active Body Lotion
    After showering, I apply a layer of Active Body Lotion. It absorbs quickly and keeps my skin hydrated all day, with a refreshing scent that lingers just enough.
  4. Facial Cleanse with Gentle Face Cleanser
    The Gentle Face Cleanser is my go-to for a balanced and refreshed complexion. With lavender and aloe, it’s perfect for cleaning without leaving my face tight or irritated.
  5. Refresh and Tone
    I use the Refreshing Toner, which feels cool and calming. It preps my skin for the day, leaving it feeling clean and smooth.
  6. Moisturise with Rejuvenate Day Cream
    My favourite step is applying the Rejuvenate Day Cream. Packed with niacinamide and shiitake mushroom extract, it leaves my skin looking brighter and feeling more resilient.
Cowshed Shower Gels, Hand Wash and Face Creams

The Weekly Boost: Clay Face Mask & Body Scrub

Once a week, I take my skincare routine up a notch with two standout products: the Exfoliating Dual Action Body Scrub and the Clay Face Mask.

The Exfoliating Dual Action Body Scrub is a powerhouse for revitalising my skin. It combines natural exfoliants like peach kernel and pumice powder with AHAs (lactic, glycolic, and malic acids) to gently buff away dry skin and promote cell renewal. The antioxidant-rich acerola cherry works to fight free radicals and boost collagen production, improving firmness and elasticity (which whilst I’m on my Weight Loss Journey, I hope will reduce loose skin). Meanwhile, aloe vera and sweet almond oil keep the scrub gentle and hydrating, making it suitable for daily use, though I use it weekly for a more targeted refresh. After using it, my skin feels noticeably smoother, softer, and more even-toned.

For my face, the Cowshed Clay Face Mask is my go-to for deeper cleansing. This mineral-rich mask features Kaolin clay and Palmarosa essential oil to draw out impurities, balance sebum levels, and even out skin tone. Cranberry seed powder adds a gentle exfoliation, while antioxidant-rich green tea soothes and calms the skin.

Using the mask is simple: I smooth a layer over my face, leave it on for about 10 minutes, and rinse off. The results are impressive—after just a few uses, my skin feels balanced, clearer, and incredibly smooth. It’s a small but mighty addition to my skincare regimen that I genuinely look forward to each week.

These weekly treatments add an extra layer of care to my routine, keeping my skin refreshed and healthy-looking from head to toe.

Evening Routine: Relax and Restore

  1. Unwind with Relax Bath and Shower Gel
    At the end of the day, I switch to the Relax Bath and Shower Gel. With calming lavender and eucalyptus, it’s the perfect way to decompress.
  2. Moisturise with Relax Body Lotion
    Post-shower, I use the Relax Body Lotion, which locks in moisture and leaves my skin feeling supple.
  3. Rejuvenate with Night Cream
    Before bed, I apply the Rejuvenate Night Cream, a richer formula that works overnight to keep my skin hydrated and refreshed by morning.

Why It Works

Since committing to this routine, my skin has transformed. It’s clearer, smoother, and even shaving irritation has disappeared. But more than that, skincare has become an enjoyable part of my day rather than a chore.

If you’re looking for a straightforward, effective men’s skincare routine, I highly recommend trying some of these products. While I’m not sponsored by Cowshed, their range has genuinely made a difference to my skin.

Skincare doesn’t have to be complicated. By sticking to a routine that works and including high-quality products like those from Cowshed, I’ve achieved healthier skin and a sense of wellbeing. Give it a try—you might be surprised by how much of a difference it can make, if you sign up for their newsletter, you can receive 20% off your first order if you order online. Selected products are also available in Marks & Spencer.