Unless you have a specific reason to go crazy with your routine, keeping it simple usually wins.
We get it. Walk down any grooming aisle and you'll see 47 different serums, 12-step routines, and products that promise to "revolutionize your skincare game." It's tempting to think that more products equal better results.
But here's what we've learned after talking to hundreds of guys about their grooming habits: the best routine is the one you'll actually stick to. Just like learning a new skill or going to the gym, consistency beats intensity every time (BCMJ).
The Problem with Complicated Routines
They're hard to maintain. That 8-step morning routine you found online? It works great for the lifestyle blogger who wrote it. But if you're rushing to get out the door by 7:30 AM, it's not happening consistently. And inconsistent skincare is worse than simple skincare.
You'll use products wrong. More steps mean more ways to mess up. Apply products in the wrong order, use too much of something, skip steps when you're tired—suddenly your expensive routine is working against you.
Analysis paralysis is real. When you have 15 products on your bathroom counter, you spend more time thinking about what to use than actually taking care of yourself. Decision fatigue before 8 AM is nobody's friend.
Most benefits overlap anyway. That vitamin C serum, retinol cream, and brightening treatment? They're all trying to solve similar problems. You probably don't need all three.
When Simple Actually Works Better
Your skin barrier stays happy. Fewer products mean fewer chances to irritate your skin. Your skin has its own system for staying healthy—sometimes the best thing you can do is get out of its way.
You'll be more consistent. A routine you can do in 2-3 minutes every single day beats a 15-minute routine you do twice a week. Consistency trumps complexity every time.
Quality over quantity pays off. Instead of buying 10 okay products, you can invest in 3-4 really good ones. Better ingredients, better results, less bathroom cabinet chaos.
You actually know what's working. When you use fewer products, it's easier to figure out what's helping and what's not. That's valuable information for your skin and your wallet.
The Sweet Spot: Essential Coverage
Most guys need coverage in these areas:
- Clean your face daily (something gentle that won't strip your skin)
- Keep your skin hydrated (a good moisturizer does most of the heavy lifting)
- Take care of your hair (shampoo & conditioner that actually works for your hair type)
- Body care basics (because the rest of you matters too)
Everything else? Nice to have, not need to have.
When It Makes Sense to Go Deeper
Look, we're not saying you should never expand your routine. Sometimes it makes sense:
You have specific skin concerns. Dealing with persistent acne or a diagnosed skin condition? Yeah, you might need some targeted treatments.
You genuinely enjoy the process. If your 20-minute grooming routine is your meditation time and you love every step, keep doing it. Self-care looks different for everyone.
You're seeing a dermatologist. When a skin expert gives you specific instructions, follow them. They know your skin better than any blog post.
You have the time and energy. If you're consistently maintaining a longer routine without stress, and it's working for you, don't fix what isn't broken.
Building Your Simple Routine
Start here:
- Morning: Wash face, moisturize, brush teeth, style hair if needed
- Evening: Wash face, moisturize, shower with decent body wash
- Hair care: Shampoo when needed, always follow with conditioner (this isn't optional)
- Extras as needed: Shaving prep, beard care if you have one
The test: Can you do this routine when you're running late, tired, or traveling? If yes, you're on the right track.
The Bottom Line
Simple routines work because they're sustainable. They work because you can focus on quality instead of quantity. And they work because taking care of yourself shouldn't feel like a part-time job.
Your face doesn't need 12 products to look good. Your hair doesn't need a chemistry degree to stay healthy. And your grooming routine doesn't need to be complicated to be effective.
Good grooming is about consistency, not complexity. Master the basics, stick to them daily, and you'll get better results than the guy with the bathroom cabinet full of half-used products.
Keep it simple. Your skin (and your schedule) will thank you.
Ready to simplify your routine? Check out our grooming essentials that cover all the basics without overwhelming.
