Skincare for Boys: A Dermatologist's Guide to Simple, Effective Habits

When we talk about skincare, most of the conversation tends to center around girls and women. But here’s the truth: skincare for boys is important—not just for appearances, but for long-term skin health, comfort, and confidence. Whether it’s a teen dealing with oily skin and breakouts or a younger boy playing outdoors all day, the right skincare habits can make a real difference.

As a dermatologist and a parent, I’ve seen how confusing the skincare world can be. Boys are often left out of the conversation entirely or handed harsh products that can do more harm than good. That’s why I love ERLY, which is simple, effective, hypoallergenic, and designed for every age and skin type.

Let’s walk through a basic, dermatologist-approved skincare routine for boys using ERLY products—and talk a bit about why each step matters.

Why Boys Need Skincare Too

Skincare is health care. Boys—like everyone else—have skin that faces the elements every day: sun, wind, dirt, sweat, and sometimes hormones that make things a bit more complicated.

Around age 9 or 10, oil production starts to increase as the body prepares for puberty. This means more clogged pores, acne flare-ups, and the dreaded shine that comes from an oily T-zone. Add sports, helmets, and long days outside, and skin can become irritated, sweaty, or sun-damaged without proper care.

The good news? Skincare doesn’t have to be complicated. A few consistent habits can go a long way.

Step 1: Cleanse Gently, But Effectively

Product: ERLY Face Foam Gentle Cleanser

The first step in any skincare routine is washing away the sweat, dirt, oil, and bacteria that collect on the skin throughout the day.

ERLY Face Foam is a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic cleanser that’s gentle enough for younger skin but effective enough for oily or acne-prone teens. It contains no harsh sulfates or drying agents, which is important because stripping the skin can actually lead to rebound oil production and more breakouts.

Use it: Twice a day—morning and night.
Pro tip: Teach boys to spend 30 seconds gently massaging the foam into their skin, especially around the nose and forehead, where oil tends to build up.

Step 2: Moisturize + Protect with SPF

Product: ERLY Start Moisturizer with SPF 40

One of the most common myths I hear is that boys (or people with oily skin) don’t need moisturizer. In fact, not moisturizing can make skin more oily, as the skin overcompensates for dryness by producing extra sebum.

ERLY Start Moisturizer is a lightweight, non-greasy, mineral-based moisturizer with SPF 40, which means it hydrates while also protecting skin from UV damage. This is especially important for boys who spend time outside—whether it’s sports practice, biking, or just hanging out in the sun.

It uses zinc oxide, which is a dermatologist favorite for sun protection, and includes peptides that support healthy skin without irritation.

Use it: Every morning, even on cloudy days.
Pro tip: Make it part of their morning routine like brushing their teeth—moisturize and protect before heading out the door.

Step 3: Soothe and Balance (for Oily or Acne-Prone Skin)

Product: ERLY Daily Soothe Serum

For boys who are starting to notice breakouts, blackheads, or shiny skin, this step is a game-changer. ERLY’s Daily Soothe is a gentle serum with 10% niacinamide, a powerhouse ingredient for calming inflammation, balancing oil production, and reducing the appearance of pores.

Niacinamide is well-tolerated even by sensitive skin and has strong clinical evidence behind it. It's especially helpful for boys dealing with "maskne," helmet breakouts, or irritation from sweating.

Use it: After cleansing and before moisturizing—morning and/or night.
Pro tip: Focus on the T-zone or breakout-prone areas. It absorbs quickly and won’t leave a sticky residue.

Step 4: Rehydrate and Repair Overnight

Product: ERLY Night Moisturizer

At night, skin goes into repair mode. This is the perfect time to apply a gentle moisturizer that replenishes moisture without clogging pores.

ERLY Night Moisturizer is rich in hyaluronic acid and vitamin E, two ingredients that help repair the skin barrier and maintain hydration while sleeping. It’s lightweight, non-comedogenic, and soothing—great for post-sports showers or after a long day in the sun.

Use it: Every night after washing the face.
Pro tip: Keep it next to the toothbrush as a reminder. A pea-sized amount is enough.

Making Skincare for Boys Stick: Tips for Parents

If you’re a parent trying to encourage your son to take care of his skin, here are a few dermatologist-backed tips:

Keep it simple. Too many steps = overwhelming. A 2-3 step routine is perfect.
Make it a habit. Link it to things he already does—like brushing teeth or showering.
Use the right language. Talk about comfort, health, and confidence—not appearance.
Let him choose. If he’s part of the decision (like picking the cleanser or using a cool foaming pump), he’s more likely to engage.
Start early. The earlier boys learn about basic skincare, the more comfortable they’ll be taking care of their skin for life.

Final Thoughts: Empowering Boys to Care for Their Skin

Skincare isn’t vanity—it’s a form of self-care, and boys deserve access to products and routines that support their health. With ERLY, you’re getting dermatologist-formulated, age-appropriate skincare that’s effective without being complicated.

Whether your son is 8 or 18, the basics stay the same: cleanse, moisturize, protect, and address specific needs like oiliness or breakouts. A little education and the right tools can go a long way toward healthier skin—and more confident kids.

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Recommended Routine for Boys Using ERLY: