By the Valet. Staff | September 22, 2020

Taking care of your skin and hair is a lot like training in the gym. You've got to put in the work to see results and you've got to make sure you have the proper gear. Grooming isn't all that complicated: you wash, you moisturize and you keep your hair trimmed in all the places that should be trimmed. The difference is made in the quality of products you use. The better the ingredients, the better your results. Of course, you could go out and spend hundreds—probably thousands—on luxury skincare. But you don't have to. Now, more than ever, guys have access to effective products that are wallet-friendly. Herewith, some of our team's favorites.

Best Men’s Affordable
Grooming Products

Acne-Calming
Cream
Cleanser

The first step to getting rid of problem skin is a quality cleanser. And while there are countless luxury options, this new brand (carried exclusively at Target) is full of quality ingredients without the luxe price. Formulated with 1.5% salicylic acid and natural apple fruit extract, this foaming cleanser gets ride of grime without stripping the skin of its natural oils. And the natural antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties help cool and soothe redness and irritation.

$20.99 by Versed

Facial Moisturizing
Lotion SPF 30

If you're taking care of your skin, moisturizer is one of the most important products in your arsenal. Protection from UV rays is just as important as hydration and this dermatologist-recommended moisturizer does all that for under $15. The non-comedogenic cream spreads easily (without leaving any chalky SPF residue) and is packed with skin-boosting ingredients like niacinamide and hyaluronic acid—typically only found in more expensive lotions.

$14 by CeraVe

Shave Cream

Bulldog's smooth, non-foaming shaving cream prevents razor burn and reduces the chances of irritation and ingrown hairs through a carefully selected mix of natural ingredients—including aloe and camelina oil. It's soothing and slippery and makes shaving quick and easy.

$8.99 / $6.40 by Bulldog

Barber Grade
Thickening Paste

Cremo worked with barbers and put a lot of research into to creating a texturizing styling paste that works with a wide range of hair types. This long-lasting formula offers a sturdy hold with low shine—workable for both wet and dry hair. A little goes a long way, making this already affordable jar that much more cost effective.

$14.99 by Cremo

Vitamin C Serum

Vitamin C has become such a powerhouse ingredient for quality skin care products. The go-to nutrient is an extremely potent antioxidant that not only soothes skin to reduce inflammation, but also promotes healthy collagen production. Which means redness, ruddiness and fine lines are all minimized. This serum is something of a skincare insider secret. The affordable elixir blends potent Vitamin C with plant-based hyaluronic acid to soften and hydrate skin.

$19.99 by TruSkin Naturals

Firm Hold Hairspray

This light mist finishes hair and locks in styles without weighing down hair or feeling like a crunchy, smelly helmet. It adds texture to shorter hair and tames messy longer styles. This formula adds a natural shine while blocking out weather-induced frizz by repelling humidity. It works better than a lot of options that cost three times as much.

$6.99 by John Frieda

Pro-Retinol Eye Cream

If you've been noticing deeper lines forming around your eyes and want to visibly reduce their appearance, you'll want to kickstart the columns turnover process in the area. Retinol is a powerful form of vitamin A that's been shown to boost collagen production, even out discoloration and smooth fine lines. But it degrades in light, so you should only use a retinol at night. Dot this on before bed and you're good to go.

$17.94 by RoC

Sandalwood
Beard Oil

A final step in a lot of men's skincare routines, a good beard oil leaves facial hair soft and feeling nourished. And good news: You can still find clean luxurious ingredients like shea butter and essential oils for under $10. Plus, Every Man Jack's sandalwood oil moisturizes both your skin and hair, and smells great while doing it.

$8.99 by Every Man Jack