Best Face Moisturizers for Men Over 40 (2026 Tested)
Post updated 27th of January 2026
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I’ve been reviewing and testing men’s skincare for over 13 years, and if there’s one product that consistently makes the biggest difference for men over 40, it’s a proper face moisturizer.
Because once you hit your 40s, your skin starts asking for more. It’s not always dramatic, but you notice it: a bit more dryness after a shower, more tightness in winter, fine lines that linger longer, and that slightly tired, dull look that shows up faster than it used to.
A lot of men either set up a routine late, or keep using the same face cream for years without realising their skin has changed. Maybe this is your first proper moisturizer. Or maybe you’re simply ready to upgrade to something that feels more comfortable and performs better day after day.
I’m 51 with skin that’s generally normal to dry and not particularly sensitive but at this age, hydration and comfort matter more than ever. If I skip moisturizer for a few days (especially in colder months), my skin looks duller, feels less comfortable, and the little lines are suddenly more visible. Simple as that.
So this updated list isn’t trend-driven, and it isn’t based on ingredient lists alone. Every moisturiser below is something I’ve used on my own face in real life (often for weeks at a time) and judged on what actually matters: how it absorbs, how it feels during the day, whether it leaves shine, and whether my skin looks healthier and more rested after consistent use.
If you’re a man over 40 and you want one product that genuinely improves your skin without exaggerated promises, start here.
How I tested these face moisturizers
I tested each moisturizer the way I actually use skincare in real life at 51: morning and evening, after cleansing,and during normal “busy dad” routines where I need something that works fast and feels comfortable all day.
Quick verdict
1. Brickell Men's Products: Resurfacing Anti-Aging Face Cream (under $30)
While it’s marketed as an “anti-aging” cream, I see it more as a well-formulated daily moisturizer that supports healthy skin over time which is exactly why I recommend it to men over 40 (and honestly, even earlier if you want to stay ahead of dryness and texture changes).
What makes it stand out is the balance of the formula. You’re getting a smart mix of skin-supporting ingredients (including Vitamin C and nourishing oils) that focus on hydration, comfort, and keeping your skin looking smooth and even. It doesn’t feel like a harsh “treatment” product. It feels like a preventative, consistent moisturiser: the kind you can use every morning without overthinking your routine.
In daily use, the texture is lightweight and absorbs quickly, which matters if you hate heavy creams or shiny finishes. With consistent use, my skin looks healthier in an everyday way: smoother, more even, and better hydrated, not a dramatic overnight transformation, but the kind of steady improvement you actually want from a daily face cream.
Pros
- Great “everyday anti-aging” approach: supports skin quality without being aggressive
- Lightweight texture that absorbs quickly (no greasy shine)
- Feels comfortable all day, especially for normal-to-dry skin
- Easy upgrade for men over 40 who want a simple, consistent routine
- Good option if you want results without complicated steps
Cons
- If your skin is very dry, you may prefer a richer cream at night
- If you want an instant “lifting” effect, this is more about steady long-term improvement
- Men who only use fragrance-free skincare may want to double-check the scent
Best for: men over 40 who want a reliable, ingredient-driven daily moisturiser that improves skin texture and comfort over time.
2. Blu Atlas Face Moisturizer ($35)
This is the face moisturiser I reach for most days and that says a lot, because I’ve tested a ridiculous number of creams over the past 13 years.
What I like about Blu Atlas is their “do the basics properly” approach. Fewer products, well thought-out formulas, and a routine that feels realistic for men (especially once you’re over 40 and you want results without turning your bathroom shelf into a science lab). Going into 2026, they’re also simplifying their range to focus on improving their core products, and this face moisturizer fits that philosophy perfectly: simple, effective, and genuinely satisfying to use.
Texture-wise, it’s definitely on the thicker side and it takes a little longer to sink in than a gel moisturiser but that’s exactly why I enjoy it, especially in colder weather or when my skin feels a bit drier. Once it settles, my skin feels exceptionally smooth and comfortable, without the greasy residue some rich creams leave behind.
Ingredient-wise, it’s packed with skin-friendly components like seaweed extract, mango seed butter, and vitamin C. In real-world use, I notice better hydration, a brighter look, and that “well-rested” finish, not like I’ve had something done to my face, but like my skin is simply healthier.
I also love pairing it with the Blu Atlas Volcanic Ash Face Wash. Used together, it’s one of the simplest routines I’ve tried that still feels premium and consistently delivers.
Pros
- Comforting, richer texture that suits men over 40 (especially normal-to-dry skin)
- Leaves skin very smooth once it settles, no greasy film
- Gives a hydrated, brighter, more rested-looking finish
- Excellent ingredient selection focused on skin health
- Pairs brilliantly with the Blu Atlas face wash for a simple routine
Cons
- Takes longer to absorb than lightweight gel creams
- If you’re very oily (especially in summer), it may feel a touch rich for daytime
- Not the cheapest option, but it feels premium and performs like it
Best for: men over 40 who want a premium, comforting daily moisturiser that delivers consistent results: especially if you prefer richer creams and a simple, high-quality routine.
3.Supply Multi Purpose Moisturizer (under $20)
This face moisturizer genuinely surprised me, in a very good way. I’ll be honest: I’m usually not a big fan of lightweight face creams. They can feel a bit forgettable, or simply not nourishing enough for men over 40. But after using this one daily for several weeks, it completely changed my mind.
The texture is light and oil-free, yet it delivers far more hydration than you’d expect. It absorbs quickly, leaves no residue, and feels immediately comfortable on the skin: perfect for mornings when you want something effective without any fuss. Despite how fast it sinks in, my skin stays moisturised throughout the day and feels noticeably softer.
Ingredient-wise, it’s a very solid formula. You’re getting a mix of hydrating and skin-supporting ingredients (aloe vera, shea butter, squalane, green tea extract) that help keep the skin calm and comfortable without irritation. And the fact it’s fragrance-free is a big plus: especially if you’re picky about scents, or you just want skincare that stays neutral.
What I really like is the multi-purpose aspect. This isn’t just a face moisturiser. I often use it on my neck, and even on my hands when I’m travelling or keeping things simple. It’s the kind of product you can rely on every day without overthinking it.
I wouldn’t label it as “anti-aging” in the dramatic marketing sense, but with regular use it clearly improves comfort, texture, and the overall look of the skin which, realistically, is what most men actually want.
Pros
- Lightweight but genuinely hydrating (great if you hate heavy creams)
- Absorbs fast with a clean, non-greasy finish
- Fragrance-free and very easy to live with day to day
- Keeps skin comfortable for hours, even in colder weather
- Multi-purpose: face, neck, hands: ideal for travel or simple routines
Cons
- If your skin is very dry, you may want something richer at night
- Doesn’t have that “luxury” rich feel some men prefer
- If you want a strong anti-aging treatment vibe, this is more about comfort + consistency
Best for: men over 40 who want a simple, effective, no-nonsense moisturiser, especially if you prefer lightweight textures and a routine that fits a busy life.
4. Kiehl’s Age Defender Face Cream Moisturizer
I’ve been using Kiehl’s products on and off for years, and one thing has always been consistent: they feel premium, well thought-out, and built to actually deliver. The Age Defender Cream is no exception. This is a proper “anti-aging” moisturiser and you feel that from the very first application.
It’s definitely on the richer side, with a comforting texture that instantly makes my skin feel more supported. It’s designed to go beyond basic hydration, with ingredients like caffeine and linseed extract aimed at helping skin look firmer and more energised. In real-world use, the payoff comes quickly: within a few days, my skin felt smoother and looked more toned, especially around the areas that start to show age first.
What I really appreciate is the combination of deep hydration and surface refinement. It doesn’t just moisturise and disappear, it leaves my skin feeling like it’s in better condition. And despite the richness, it absorbs well and doesn’t leave a sticky, heavy finish, so I’m happy using it in the morning as well as at night.
There’s no denying it sits at the premium end of the spectrum. It’s an investment, but if your budget allows, this is one of those creams where you can genuinely see what you’re paying for: particularly if you’re over 40 and want a moisturiser that feels more “treatment” than “basic.”
Pros
- High-performance anti-aging feel (more than simple hydration)
- Noticeably firmer, smoother look with consistent use
- Rich, premium texture that still absorbs well
- Comfortable day or night: feels “supportive” on mature skin
- A genuine upgrade if you’re over 40 and want visible results
Cons
- Premium price: not the best choice if you’re on a strict budget
- If you strongly prefer very lightweight gels, it may feel too rich
- Some men may prefer fragrance-free only (personal preference)
Best for: men over 40 who want visible smoothing/firming results and are ready to invest in a serious face moisturiser that goes beyond basic hydration.
5. clarins men: super moisture balm
This is one of those moisturisers that reminds me why simple, well-formulated skincare still matters most. I’ve been using the Clarins Men Super Moisture Balm regularly since Christmas, and it has quietly become one of the most reliable creams in my routine.
Despite the name, this isn’t a heavy or greasy balm. The texture sits somewhere between a gel and a cream, which makes it incredibly easy to apply and very comfortable on the skin. It absorbs quickly, leaves no shine, and works brilliantly as a morning moisturiser, even when you’re in a rush.
What stands out is how balanced it feels. It gives solid hydration without overwhelming the skin, which makes it ideal for men over 40 who want comfort, but also perfect if you’ve never used a proper face moisturiser before. If someone asked me for a “first real moisturiser”, this would be high on my list.
Clarins doesn’t push this as a hardcore anti-aging treatment, and I actually see that as a strength. Used daily, it keeps the skin smooth, fresh, and well hydrated, helping prevent dryness and that tight feeling many men get after cleansing or shaving.
It’s also fragrance-light and very easy to live with an understated product that simply does the job, day after day.
Pros
- Lightweight balm texture that absorbs fast (no greasy shine)
- Very comfortable on the skin:great for daily use
- Beginner-friendly: easy “first proper moisturiser” choice
- Excellent for morning routines and post-shave comfort
- Balanced hydration that keeps skin in good shape
Cons
- If your skin is very dry, you may want something richer at night
- More of a comfort/hydration pick than a “hardcore anti-aging” treatment
- If you only use fragrance-free skincare, you may prefer a completely unscented option
Best for: men over 40 who want a straightforward, effective moisturiser that keeps skin comfortable and well hydrated, especially if you’re new to skincare or want something effortless and reliable.
Final Verdict: Which Face Moisturiser Should You Choose?
After 13 years of testing men’s skincare, here’s the truth: there isn’t one “best” moisturizer for every man but there is a best one for your skin and your routine.
If you want a smart, ingredient-led daily cream that supports your skin long-term, go with Brickell. If you want the most comforting, richer texture (especially in colder months), Blu Atlas is my personal go-to. If you prefer something lightweight, fast, and versatile, Supply is the best value surprise in this list. If you want a premium anti-aging moisturiser with more visible smoothing and firming, Kiehl’s delivers. And if you want something easy, balanced, and beginner-friendly, Clarins Men Super Moisture Balm is the safest place to start.
The good news is you don’t need a complicated routine. A decent cleanser and the right face moisturizer, used consistently, will make a noticeable difference : especially for men over 40.
Jerome.
FAQ: Face Moisturizers for Men Over 40
Do men over 40 really need a face moisturizer?
Yes. From your 40s onwards, skin often becomes drier and less “bouncy”, and a good moisturizer makes a noticeable difference to comfort and overall appearance. If you keep just one skincare step, make it moisturiser.
Should I moisturise in the morning, at night, or both?
Both is ideal. Morning keeps your skin comfortable through the day, and night helps it recover: especially if you cleanse, shave, or deal with winter dryness. If you only do one, start with morning and add night when your skin feels dry.
What’s the best moisturizer texture for men over 40?
If your skin feels tight or dry, go for a richer cream/balm. If you hate shine or prefer “invisible” skincare, choose a lightweight, fast-absorbing moisturiser. The best one is the one you’ll actually use every day.
Is an “anti-aging” cream necessary?
Not always. Many moisturizers improve how your skin looks simply by keeping it hydrated and comfortable. A dedicated anti-aging cream can be worth it if you want a firmer, smoother look: but consistency beats having ten different products.
Can I use my face moisturiser after shaving?
Usually yes, as long as it doesn’t sting. After shaving, I prefer something comfortable and non-greasy. If you’re prone to irritation, fragrance-free formulas are often the safest choice.
How much moisturizer should I use?
A tiny bit more than a pea-sized amount is usually enough for face and neck. Using too much can leave shine and can cause pilling when you layer sunscreen on top.
Do I need a moisturiser if I already use sunscreen?
Sometimes, but not always. Some sunscreens are moisturising, but many aren’t enough on their own for men over 40: especially in colder months. If your skin still feels tight or dry, keep moisturiser underneath.
Hi, I’m Jerome. I’ve been reviewing men’s skincare and grooming products for over 12 years, testing everything myself and sharing honest, experience-based recommendations on Dapper & Groomed.
Tested by me: Bluffworks Ascender Chinos comfy all day, wrinkle-resistant and blazer-ready.