The beauty industry is experiencing a bit of an aha moment: While some of the ways it has categorized skincare make sense (by skin type or concern, for example), others tend to fall into outdated stereotypes. For example, we've been trained to think that women and men need completely different products—but, a lot of the time, that just isn't true.
A cursory glance at the beauty aisle is all you need to note that many products are clearly marketed for women (smiling models, flowers, cursive fonts) or for men (bold, shirtless, straightforward). Some of the latest skincare brands are here to disrupt those marketing norms. Take John Legend's new skincare line, Loved01, which is made to address the melanin-rich skin of all genders and skin types (it's also affordably priced and available at CVS). "Hyperpigmentation, acne, and fine lines are things that concern both sexes," says Mona Gohara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and associate clinical professor of dermatology at Yale School of Medicine. That thinking applies to a lot of skincare: Yes, men have more active sebaceous glands and pores, but they can use the same oil-controlling moisturizer as women. And while women have thinner skin and may see fine lines sooner than men, the creams that can help offset that damage work the same way regardless of gender.
"The basic tenets of gentle cleansing, moisturizing, and protection from UV rays are gender-neutral," says Gohara. Sharing your skincare may save time, money, and shopping stress. Plus, we think genderless skincare looks quite chic on bathroom countertops.
These are the best unisex skincare brands that have accessible and effective formulas for everyone:
John Legend's brand, Loved01, was formulated with a dermatologist and is made for melanin-rich skin. Everything in the collection, from face wash to body oil, sells for less than $20 each. All the plant-based formulas contain sea buckthorn oil, which is rich in brightening vitamin C, and rose hip oil to moisturize.
The name of this brand says it all. Not only is it designed for all humans, but it's also vegan, cruelty-, paraben-, sulfate-, and synthetic-dye-free. Discover a selection of serums, cleansers, and moisturizers, like this Phytonutrient Concentrate, an oil rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fatty acids that nourish skin.
The Inkey List offers quality skincare products for a budget-friendly price—most are available for less than $20. Whether you experience dryness, oiliness, redness, irritation, fine lines, wrinkles, or hyperpigmentation, you're sure to find a product suitable for your concerns. If you're new to the brand, try this hydrating hyaluronic acid serum, which is great for everyone.
Matthew Malin and Andrew Goetz founded this brand in 2004 with inclusivity in mind from the start. No matter your skin type, tone, or gender, you'll love the assortment of products available, from skincare to haircare, from bodycare to fragrance. The newest addition to the brand is this lightweight moisturizer that helps minimize the look of fine lines as it plumps skin.
Soft Services carries bodycare solutions for all skin concerns, from backne to dryness. Whether you opt for the moisturizing hand cream packaged in a case that doubles as decor or need a lotion that will both moisturize and gently exfoliate (like this one), you can't go wrong.
Geologie prides itself in being a brand that gives you exactly what you need no matter your gender, race, or skin concerns. Take its personalized quiz to find out exactly which skincare products work best for you.
Aesop is a cult-favorite brand that's been on the gender-neutral wave for quite some time now. Shop products across skin, hair, body, home, and fragrance categories—all come in chic, minimalistic packaging. Try this cleanser rich in mandarin rind, ylang-ylang, and lavender oil for a gentle cleanse that doesn't leave skin feeling stripped.
True Two All isn't just standing up against gender stereotypes; it also says no to complicated and extensive skincare routines. This duo includes a face wash and hydrator, which is all you need for balanced and healthy skin.
Dermalogica's straightforward, get-the-job-done formulas appeal to everyone. Example A: this retinol serum, which has retinol to promote cellular turnover and improve the look of fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation plus hydrators like squalane and beta-glucan to counteract any irritation.
Safe for every skin type, this exfoliating serum sloughs away the dead skin cells that make a complexion appear dull. With regular use, it also improves skin tone, texture, and clarity.
Originally founded by dermatologist Richard Fitzpatrick, MD, SkinMedica is a cosmeceutical brand known for its cutting-edge, research-based formulas—and sleek, minimal packaging. The TNS Advanced+ Serum, which uses growth factors to address fine lines and texture, is a favorite among dermatologists.
This bestselling vitamin C serum is one of the brand's many options for protecting against environmental aggressors and offering a brighter, smoother-looking complexion.
Genesis Rivas is the Beauty Editor at Oprah Daily, where she covers hair, makeup, skin, nails, and more. Before joining the Oprah Daily team, she wrote for several publications, including InStyle, Real Simple, and Shape. When she’s not testing, researching, and writing fun and educational beauty content, you can find her dancing and eating her way through New York City. Follow her on Instagram or TikTok